We hope this course will be fun, interesting, and challenging, and we're looking forward to meeting you all in September!

About the course...

The programme incorporates a range of core and option modules which ensure relevance for students who intend to work in any part of the animal health or veterinary industry. In addition, some option strands will be primarily aimed at Veterinary Nursing graduates, enabling them to develop specialist areas of interest and facilitate progression within practice. 

You will be encouraged and supported to explore current issues in the industry and are encouraged to investigate particular areas of interest. All modules are closely linked to industry and students are encouraged to support their learning with appropriate work experience - in fact, many of your fellow students are probably employed in industry. There is a mandatory work experience in the course, and this will link tightly to your modules The college also has close links with zoological collections, rescue centres, aquariums, avian collections and other associated animal based employers, and we arrange a wide range of visits and guest speakers to give you the maximum breadth of expertise!

Welcome to Duchy Stoke Climsland University Centre Cornwall College. My name is Michelle Chappell and I am the Programme Manager for the FdSc Animal Health and Management and BSc (Hons) Applied Animal Health courses. I am very passionate about animal health and welfare with a particular focus on equine and canine species.

Having grown up in the county of Cornwall and attended local schools and colleges to complete my education I can genuinely advocate studying here in Cornwall. After completing my studies it led to work both within parts of the UK and abroad so returning to work in Cornwall has meant returning to my happy place. Situated between Bodmin Moor and Dartmoor and being a short drive away from some amazing beaches we are surrounded by vibrant natural landscapes in which a variety of wildlife thrive. I am fortunate to be involved in the structure and delivery of courses that encompass my interests and inspires me to continue researching. Currently I am actively engaged in research that explores the emotional status of canines used in therapeutic environments.  

At our campus, I lecture on a diverse range of subjects. These include animal and equine anatomy and physiology, animal behaviour, animal health and disease and various related topics.

As you embark on your academic journey with us, I encourage you to make the most of your time here at university. Take full advantage of the unique resources available to you such as the animal science research hub, future farm and our links to industry. Institutions such as Dartmoor Zoo, Mare and Foal Sanctuary, Screech owl Sanctuary and Elite German Shepherd Rescue provide incredible opportunities for hands-on-learning and observation of various animal species.

Additionally, I encourage you to engage in volunteering activities, as they offer invaluable practical experience and a chance to contribute to welfare efforts. Getting involved with these initiatives can enhance your understanding of the field and connect with like minded individuals.

It goes without saying striking a balance between academic and social life activities is important. Cornwall offers a lively community with plenty of social events and recreational opportunities. Take time to explore and enjoy the local attractions, cultural events and outdoor activities that Cornwall has to offer.

Again welcome and I very much hope by the end of your studies that have been full of light-bulb moments you find a completely different understanding of animals and leave with the thirst to develop further and strive to contribute in this fascinating world of nature.

Kit and Equipment

It's important for the practical sessions to remember that Stoke Climsland is in a relatively wet area of the country, and that many animal-based practicals must take place outside! We also have a range of animal- and laboratory-based practicals, for which you will need to be prepared. Make sure that you have:

• Waterproof coats
• Waterproof trousers
• Yard boots
• Wellington boots
• Dark coloured overcoat [lab coat style] for practical sessions
• Embroidered Polo Shirt [available to purchase through Snowland embroidery - contact details on welcome information]

We also recommend bringing a laptop or tablet for accessing resources in class.