Animal Management - Level 5 Higher National Diploma

Essentials

Duration: 2 Years Full-time
Start date: 15th September 2025
End date: 4th June 2027

Course fees for each year.

Fees are payable annually.
The fees for year 2 may be subject to change.

Find out more about eligibility for reduced course fees, payment options and financial support available in our fees and funding page.

The Pearson BTEC Level 5 HND in Animal Management course is a university level qualification which has been designed to develop your knowledge and understanding in factors related to animal behaviour, welfare and veterinary science. The course is aimed at learners who want to further progress their careers within the animal sector and includes a strong emphasis on veterinary science, veterinary nursing and veterinary practice management.

The course is taught by qualified animal care staff with the knowledge and skill base to guide you through your studies. Academic and practical skills will be developed through detailed informative lectures, guest speakers and research development tasks. You will also have access to the animal care unit at NRC where you gain invaluable experience in animal handling and welfare.

Examples of subjects may study include:

• Animal Health and Welfare
• Animal Anatomy and Physiology
• Animal Nursing
• Business and the business environment
• Managing a Successful Project

The animal industry is an important sector in Northern Ireland with many career progression opportunities available to HND in Animal Management graduates. The aim of the college is to provide you with the knowledge and skills to apply to animal related degree programmes at university or to progress to fulltime employment in the animal industry.

At least 4 GCSEs at grade C (4) or above including English and Maths (or equivalent level 2 qualifications) plus one or more of the following:

• A-level - A minimum of 80 UCAS points including at minimum, one A Level pass preferably in an appropriate subject (e.g. Biology)
• Level 3 qualifications - Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Management or Applied Science MMP (80 UCAS Points)  
• Other related Level 3 qualification (Please contact the course coordinator for details)

Where students wish to have prior education and/or experience taken into account, in lieu of meeting the full course entry requirements, they should contact the relevant Course Director or Admissions. APEL applications must be submitted at least 2 weeks before the start date of the programme. More details can be found in the APEL Policy.

The Pearson BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma is recognised by Higher Education providers as meeting admission requirements to many relevant Animal related university courses, for example:

• Veterinary Science
• Veterinary Nursing
• Animal Behaviour and Welfare
• Animal Management
• Applied Animal Science

On completion of this qualification graduates can also progress directly into employment such as:

• Veterinary care assistant
• Animal Nutritionist
• Animal Science Lecturer
• Animal Instructor
• Animal Centre Manager
• Pet Store Manager
• Kennel and Cattery Manager
• Veterinary Practice Manager