Pearson BTEC HNC in Animal Management

The purpose of Pearson BTEC Higher Nationals in Animal Management is to develop students as professional, self-reflecting individuals able to meet the demands of employers in the Animal Management sector and adapt to a constantly changing world.


Academic Year: 2025/26
Course Code: 10811
Campus: Bangor, Lisburn
Study Type: Part-Time
Education Level Higher Education
Department: Animal Care

Available Sessions

We have 2 sessions available for application on this course in Bangor, Lisburn.

Course Structure

The Part time HNC is made up of 8 units in total, delivered over 2 years.

Modules studied in year 1 include:

  • Animal Health and Welfare - Learn how to recognise signs of health and disease across a range of animal species, as well as how to manage animals to promote good health and prevent disease.
  • Business and the Business Environment - Gain a background knowledge and understanding of land-based business, the functions of an organisation and the wider business environments in which organisations operate.
  • Managing a Successful Project (Pearson set) - Manage and implementing a project through independent research and investigation for carrying out aims and objectives.

Optional Modules

  • Animal Behaviour in Society - Gain insight into the scientific methodology used to observe and assess animal behaviour by conducting own observations and reach conclusions.
  • Animal Anatomy and Physiology - Learn the structure and functioning of the biological systems and highlights the important roles they play in maintaining the life of an animal.
  • Ecological Principles – Learn the fundamental mechanisms of evolution, interrelationship between species and population dynamics are studied within a given context.
  • Management of Exotic Animal Species - Explore the diverse exotic animal industry/sector and its associated issues linking to husbandry and welfare.
  • Animal Collection Management - Learn how to safely handle and restrain a variety of animal species to facilitate routine management tasks using animal house on relevant campus.

This programme is delivered using a range of on-campus and online synchronous and asynchronous approaches.   

The qualifications aim to widen access to higher education and enhance the career prospects of those who undertake them.  This course is designed to prepare students for a career in the animal industry or progression to related degree programmes.

General Entry Requirements

The general entry requirements below identify the minimum qualifications needed to apply for the programme. Other qualifications will be considered on an individual basis on application. You are required to upload a copy of your qualification certificates to show how you meet the entry requirements for the programme prior to enrolment. Applications will also require successful completion of the admissions process.

GCSE/ Level 2 Requirements

• GCSE grade C/4 in English Language, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills-Communication, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

AND

• GCSE grade C/4 in Mathematics, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills-Application of Number, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

AND

• Passes in 4 different subjects (can include English Language and Mathematics and as above), with 1 at GCE Advanced (A) level (grades A-E), and 3 at GCSE level (grades A*-C*/9-4), or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

Course Entry Requirements

A minimum of 64 UCAS points including:

At least one A Level pass preferably in an appropriate subject (e.g. Biology) OR

Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Management or Applied Science (MPP = 64 UCAS Points)  

OR

Access Diploma in Foundation Studies with an overall average of 65% + and with one science module at a minimum of 65%  

OR

An equivalent in an approved alternative qualification

Accreditation of Prior Learning

Alternatively, you can provide evidence of your ability to undertake the programme by meeting the requirements for the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process, either through Accredited Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or Accredited Prior Experiential Learning (APEL). Further details on APL can be found in the HE Admissions section of our website and the HE Accreditation of Prior Learning SOP

International Students English Language Requirements

International applicants, from Non-Native English speaking countries, must have evidence of English Language Level B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages:

• IELTS 6.0 (Academic) (minimum of 5.5 in all skills)

• PTE Academic 51 (minimum of 46 in each part)

• Or equivalent UKVI-approved English Language Test

For further information please contact our International Department at international@serc.ac.uk

    Students are assessed using a range of different methods.

    These include time constrained assignments, coursework, Project Based Learning, presentations, practical, posters, leaflets, role-play, and case studies. 

    This is dependent on the requirements of each unit of study.  Oral, written and online feedback will be provided during your course to help improve and monitor performance.

    Successful completion of the HNC in Animal Management prepares you for employment in the animal industry and may provide you with the opportunity to complete a further year leading to the Level 5 HND in Animal Management. 

    Successful completion of the HNC may also enable you to progress to further study on the first year of a Degree course.

    The HNC in Animal Management provides a Nationally Recognised Qualification offering career progression and professional development for those already in employment and provides opportunities to progress to Higher Education. 

    Along with the vocational skills you will also develop employability skills through workshops such as teamwork, innovation and problem solving.

    You are encouraged to take up work experience in a relevant animal related workplace.

    It is the responsibility of the student to organise this work experience.

    As part of the course you will be expected to participate in a field trip which will incur a maximum cost of (£100).

    Please note, course fees are payable in each year of the programme. 

    Course and Provider regulated by Pearson.

    Available Sessions

    We have 2 sessions available for application on this course in Bangor, Lisburn.

    Enquiries Information

    For more information or help with this course send us an enquiry and a member of our team will get back in touch.

    Available Sessions

    Title Campus Start Spaces Fee Apply or get more information
    Pearson BTEC HNC in Animal Management
    Y10811BD1A-25/26-PT
    Bangor
    15/09/2025
    Day: Tues, Thur

    Time: 09:00-18:00

    15 £1100.00
    Pearson BTEC HNC in Animal Management
    Y10811LD1A-25/26-PT
    Lisburn
    15/09/2025
    Day: Tues, Thur

    Time: 09:00-18:00

    15 £1108.00

    Please select a campus from the list above to view the available sessions.

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    Terms & Conditions

    Students will be required to comply with SERC's Terms & Conditions of study.

    We strive to ensure the description of courses on SERC's website and in publications is accurate. However, for various reasons there may be occasions when the College may need to change arrangements or be unable to deliver classes due to circumstances such as reduced funding. If there are insufficient numbers applying for a course it may not be viable to deliver the class.

    Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.

    Higher Education

    Higher Education

    If you have just completed your A-Levels, Higher Education is most likely the option for you. HE usually covers HNC, HND & Foundation Degree level of courses including our Higher Level Apprenticeships.

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