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Level 4 HNC in Animal Management in Wakefield

Cost£7,400.00
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 4
DeliveryClassroom based
Start30 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
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About this course

Level 4 HNC in Animal Management in Wakefield. Classes run at Wakefield College, full-time during the day. This Pearson Edexcel level 4 hnc in animal management qualification takes one year to complete. You'll build practical skills and underpinning knowledge through a mix of classroom study, work placements, and visits including residentials in the UK and Europe. The course is designed to take you into employment in the animal management sector or onto a related degree programme. You'll need 64 UCAS points or a relevant Level 3 qualification, supported by GCSEs at grade 4 or above in English, Maths and Science.

Who this course is for

The course structure has been selected to provide a relevant learning environment and opportunities to meet the needs of local and regional students. It has been designed to either enable learners to progress to a related degree programme or to make a direct entry to employment through the acquisition of practical skills and relevant underpinning knowledge. These skills will be put to the test during a variety of visits, work placements and trips including residentials in both the UK and Europe.

You will learn through:

Lectures Practical work in animal units Field trips Tutor led tutorials Laboratory work External visits Independent learning, study and research

Entry requirements

64 UCAS points OR BTEC Level 3 qualification in Animal Management OR A Levels that demonstrate strong academic performance OR Other related Level 3 qualifications OR Access to Higher Education Diploma AND This should be supported by GCSEs at Grade 9-4 (or equivalent) in English, Maths and Science.

Related work experience in the land-based sector and mature students will be considered following interview.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop practical animal care and management skills applied in real work settings.
  • You'll study animal biology, behaviour, and welfare principles.
  • You'll learn how to plan and carry out animal husbandry tasks safely.
  • You'll explore land-based sector practices through UK and European study visits.
  • You'll gain experience of professional work environments through placements.
  • You'll build the knowledge needed to progress to a degree or step into employment.

How you will learn

Learning is classroom-based and practical, combining taught sessions with work placements, field visits, and residential trips in the UK and Europe. Assessment on a BTEC Higher National Certificate typically includes assignments, project work, and practical assessments rather than written exams. Your tutors will set tasks that test both your knowledge and your ability to apply skills in animal management contexts.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Wakefield College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Animal care worker, looking after animals in kennels, catteries, or shelters
  • Zoo keeper assistant, supporting animal care in a zoo or wildlife park
  • Animal technician, working in research or laboratory animal care
  • Wildlife rehabilitation assistant, helping injured or orphaned wild animals
  • Farm animal technician, managing livestock on commercial farms
  • Animal welfare inspector, monitoring standards for animal welfare organisations

What you could study next

  • Level 5 HND in Animal Management (Pearson Edexcel) - the natural next step, deepening specialist knowledge and often accepted as the second year of a full degree.
  • BSc (Hons) in Animal Management or Animal Science - a full degree at a university, building on your HNC for roles in research, conservation, or management.
  • Postgraduate study in Animal Behaviour or Conservation Biology - for those aiming toward research or specialist professional roles.
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