A new postgraduate degree will focus on animal welfare and the UK legal system – to equip graduates with the expertise for management roles in the animal welfare sector.
The MSc Animal Welfare, Policy and Legislation degree has been designed by Hartpury University to meet emerging animal welfare challenges linked to the UK legal system. Hartpury is a member of the UK Centre for Animal Law (A-Law).
The programme will cover content applicable to a wide range of animal industries, including livestock farming, zoos and the management of feral animals.
It will be delivered mainly online with full and part-time pathways to provide flexibility to fit study around other commitments.
The course will include talks delivered by expert guest lecturers – academic and industry professionals – who are actively engaged in the development and implementation of legislation and policy.
Students will have opportunities to further enhance their knowledge by applying theory to practice in real-world settings, including on campus at Hartpury, which is home to 70 species of animal.
Dr McCormick, head of animal and agriculture at Hartpury, said: “The animal welfare sector is diverse, covering everything from agriculture to pet shops and rescue centres to wildlife conservation.
“As graduates progress into management positions, they’re likely to find themselves responsible for legal compliance.
“If they’re working for government or charitable organisations, they may even be involved in important consultation and lobbying to drive forward new legislation.
“This new course will provide graduates with the expertise they need to navigate the legal system and make a difference to the lives of animals through improved welfare standards.”
