About the course
The College offers the opportunity to study at level 3 (A level equivalent) for students who wish to develop a comprehensive understanding of animal management and biology - encompassing practical techniques, academic knowledge and technical skills. It is a popular option for both school leavers and successful Level 2 Diploma students. The course incorporates a mix of practicals, classroom lectures, industry visits and case study exercises. Students enjoy the wide variety of theory and practical subjects combined with a range of projects and assessments.
Applications are now open for entry in September 2026. Please ignore the Duration as being 35 weeks. That is the number of weeks each year!
This is a 3 x A Level equivalent course. We also offer a 2 x A Level equivalent course (the Advanced Technical Certificate), with slightly lower entry requirements and the option to potentially resit either GCSE Maths or English. Students normally apply for the one that best meets their anticipated GCSE Results.
Key Information
Location: Preston Campus
Start date: September 2026
Course length: Two Years (35 weeks)
Course Modules
Advanced Extended Technical Diploma (1080) - Year 2: Wildlife Management and Rehabilitation (Optional)
Animal Behaviour and Communication
Animal Feeding and Nutrition
Animal Health and Husbandry
Animal Nursing
Animal Training (Optional)
Animal Welfare and Breeding
Avian Health and Husbandry (Optional)
Biological Systems of Animals
Business Management in the Land-based Sector
Exotic Animal Health and Husbandry (Optional)
Farm Livestock Husbandry and Welfare (Optional)
Kennel and Cattery Management
Pet Allied Services
Pet Store Design and Management
Principles of Health and Safety
Small Animal Rehabilitation
Undertake a Specialist Project in the Land-based Sector
Undertake and Review Work Related Experience in the Land-based Industries
Undertake Estate Skills
Wildlife and Ecology Conservation
Entry requirements & additional information
This course gives a good technical training and education providing a vocational alternative to A Levels and the opportunity for successful students to progress to Higher Education. Students are normally aged 16 or over and the following requirements are needed for the Advanced Technical Diploma (540) in Animal Management (which leads to the Advanced Technical Extended Diploma (1080) in Animal Management):
5 GCSEs at Grades A* to C (9 to 4), to include Mathematics, English Language and Science
Or
gaining Level 2 Diploma at Distinction and English and Mathematics qualifications at Level 2 (this must be English Language and Mathematics GCSE at C or above for under 19s)
In addition Learning Areas may apply specific agreed aptitude assessments that assist selection. It is strongly recommended for applicants to gain some voluntary experience within the animal sector in order ensure that they are fully prepared for the expectations of the study programme and gain a realistic insight of the animal industry. A minimum of five days (which do not have to be consecutive) is advised.
Assessments will include assignments, practical work, synoptic assessments and formal examinations.
As a course equivalent to A Level the Level 3 is an ideal spring board for progression depending on UCAS points gained. Students may wish to continue their studies in Higher Education, e.g.: FdSc Applied Animal Science (with BSc top-up routes in Animal Science or Animal Science (Conservation), FdSc Veterinary Nursing.
Progression onto degree programmes at other universities is dependent upon their own individual entry criteria. (This is particularly true of students interested in progressing to Veterinary Medicine and Surgery degrees). This might include specific requirements relating to the type of course being studied, the particular modules or units studied on a course, the work-experience that you've undertaken or even previous GCSE attainment. Entry requirements can also change from year-to-year. It is essential that, if you have a clear career goal in mind, you check and confirm the entry requirements of your preferred degree programme prior to commencing your Level 3 studies here at Myerscough.
Information, Advice and Guidance will be provided by the College to support you in making the right choices, but please ensure that you have taken time to consider your future career goals and the specific entry requirements at other universities. The UCAS website is a good starting point: https://www.ucas.com/ More information about Veterinary Careers is available at British Veterinary Association - Becoming a Vet
Specialist Clothing and Equipment: College warehouse jacket, wellington boots or other sturdy work boots. Tetanus vaccination up to date.
Additional Costs That May be Incurred: Clothing - £30 approx Trips - £50 approx