Level 1 CG Diploma Land-based Studies (Animal Care)

About the course

This course provides a basic introduction to the care of a variety of domestic animals. Areas of study will include feeding, cleaning and handling animals as well as additional modules covering work safety and skills development in the land-based industries. Time will be spent in the classroom and in the College's purpose built Animal Studies Centres developing practical skills. Students must have an interest in the subject. A portfolio of written work must be completed as well as a short on-line assessment.

Key Information

Location: Liverpool Campus or Preston Campus

Course length: One Year (35 weeks)

Available course dates: Please select the appropriate campus and start date to apply online.

Liverpool Campus
September 2025
Preston Campus
September 2025

Course Modules

Animals in the Wild and in Society

Assist with Feeding and Watering Animals

Assist with Maintaining the Health and Wellbeing of Animals

Assist with the Movement, Handling and Accommodation of Animals

Develop Performance in Land-based Industries

Introduction to Wildlife and Conservation

Safe and Effective Working Practices in Land-based Industries

Animals in the Wild and in Society

Assist with Feeding and Watering Animals

Assist with Maintaining the Health and Wellbeing of Animals

Assist with the Movement, Handling and Accommodation of Animals

Develop Performance in Land-based Industries

Introduction to Wildlife and Conservation

Safe and Effective Working Practices in Land-based Industries

Entry requirements & additional information

Students must have 3 GCSE Grade 1 -2 including English or Maths or equivalent Entry Level 3 Qualification along with a keen interest in the subject. Some practical knowledge of small animal care is desirable. It is strongly recommended for applicants to gain some voluntary experience within the animal sector in order to 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.

Animal Studies

Britain is well regarded as a nation of animal lovers, from companion pets to large animal collections. This has resulted in a multi-million pound industry, ranging from well known national pet feed companies to pet stores, catteries and kennels and numerous other businesses providing for the needs of animals.

If you care about animals and have a deep interest in their health and wellbeing, Myerscough provides an excellent opportunity for you to further your studies. You'll develop a range of skills and have the opportunity to care for a range of animals including dogs, cats, rabbits and ferrets, farm animals, reptiles and amphibians and a range of invertebrates.

Our new £3m Animal Studies Centre

Our Animal Studies Centre

Myerscough College’s Animal Studies Centre has tripled in size after the completion of a £3 million extension and major refurbishment. The new Animal Studies Centre features specialist classrooms, dedicated indoor and outdoor areas for different animal groups, as well as spacious private rooms, reception and study areas, all fully equipped with the latest I.T technology.

The Animal Studies Centre also offers a range of services to the public, from grooming and healthcare through to behaviour classes and hydrotherapy for injury recovery.