Bachelor of Applied Science (Animal Behaviour and Welfare)
Course details
| NZQF Level | 7 |
|---|
About the course
With animal behaviour and welfare becoming a high-demand field, there’s never been a better time to start this unique qualification.
The programme dives into everything from health and husbandry to conservation and behaviour modification. You’ll explore the complex world of human-animal interactions, preparing you for a rewarding career in the animal care sector.
Highlights
- A holistic approach that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills to evaluate the welfare, behaviour, and training needs of wild, exotic, and companion animals
- Practical experience in simulated and real-world situations
- Visits to various animal welfare organisations and voluntary groups; you may even be able to undertake part of your studies at one of their sites
- A chance to complete a research project in an area of your interest to develop the skills you’ll need for a career in your chosen field
- Relevant and current teaching: our lecturers keep up with industry trends through links with zoos in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington, and Christchurch, the Department of Conservation, MPI (Ministry of Primary Industries) Biosecurity, and the SPCA
- A teaching team of highly qualified and experienced animal behaviour experts, animal trainers, animal welfare scientists, and veterinarians
Double major
Can’t choose between animal welfare and the environment? Study a double major, you’ll gain a unique edge that employers value. This pathway is a great way to diversify your skills, giving you a wider range of career options across New Zealand’s environmental and animal care sectors.
We highly recommend choosing a double major to broaden your expertise and capabilities. Diversifying your studies in this way gives you a significant edge, making you more competitive in the job market.
Where from here
Upon completing this programme, you can go on to further study in Master of Applied Science (Biodiversity Management)
Career Options
- Animal behaviour and/or welfare consultant
- Animal handler
- Animal welfare inspector
- Animal welfare scientific officer
- Welfare education officer
Annual Tuition Fees
Domestic/NZ students
$8,500
(Approximate fees only - includes GST but excludes the Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF) levy. Your final study costs depends on a number of factors including the courses you select to study. View options for funding your study and fees-free eligibility)
International students
$26,415 (NZD) (approximate fees for 120 credits) Save upto $2,000 (NZD) with Unitec International Study Grant 2026.Terms and conditions apply.
Semester Dates
Sem 1 2026: 23 Feb – 28 Jun
Sem 2 2026: 20 Jul – 22 Nov
For course and class timings, refer to the specific course webpage.
For StudyLink purposes, please ensure your application states your earliest course start date.
For course and class timings, refer to the specific course webpage.
For StudyLink purposes, please ensure your application states your earliest course start date.
Downloads and resources
Programme regulations - Bachelor of Applied Science (Animal Behaviour and Welfare) Student regulations Order a personalised brochure Scholarships and awardsStudent LifeFor Māori studentsFor Pacific studentsFor International students
Entry requirements
You must have completed at least one of the following:
- Successful completion of New Zealand Certificate in Animal Care – Companion Animals
- A minimum of 42 credits at NCEA Level 3 or higher on the National Qualifications Framework, with:
- 14 credits at Level 3 or higher in each of two subjects (Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Statistics), with;
- a further 14 credits at Level 3 or higher taken from no more than two additional domains on the National Qualifications Framework or plus;
- a minimum of 14 credits at Level 1 or higher in Mathematics or Pangarau on the National Qualifications Framework, plus
- 8 credits at Level 2 or higher in English or Te Reo Māori (a minimum of 4 credits must be in Reading, and a minimum of 4 credits must be in Writing)
- At least 3 ‘C’ passes in the New Zealand University Bursaries Examinations;
And meet one of the English entry requirements;
- University Entrance Literacy: 8 credits at Level 2 or above in English or Māori (4 in Reading, 4 in Writing); or
- Provide evidence that they have the English language proficiency required for the Programme as demonstrated through evidence of one of the kinds described in NZQA Rules on the Unitec English Language Requirements for International Students Web-page.
Don’t meet these Academic requirements?
- If you don’t meet the academic criteria, our Bridging Education Programmes can help you qualify. Simply apply online, and we’ll discuss your next steps.
- If you don’t meet the above criteria, special or discretionary admission may apply; your eligibility will be determined at the interview.
About the provider
Unitec is New Zealand’s largest institute of technology offering a wide range of work-oriented programmes and short courses. We offer leading employment-focused education at our two campuses in Mt. Albert, and Waitākere. At Unitec we think the traditional view of spending hours in a lecture theatre is out-dated. And that's why we approach learning differently. With our unique combination of world-class theory and hands-on experience, you'll get the skills to meet the changing needs of employers. And because our tutors are industry-based, they know what it takes to make it in the real world. We offer a friendly and diverse learning environment with flexible study programmes, lots of support, and hands-on experience to build the skills you need for your career and your future.