Postgraduate Course Animal Behaviour Technician

If you do not have a bachelor degree you can apply for admission through an evaluation of your portfolio and submission of a motivation letter.

Why write a motivation letter?

An important part of the application procedure for the postgraduate courses is the motivation letter. We will assess your motivation letter together with your CV to find out if you are the kind of student we are looking for in our courses and whether you have a realistic chance to complete the course successfully. 

How to write an excellent motivation letter?

In the first part of the letter tell us about your background in the field of companion animal behaviour and welfare. Think for example of the following questions:

• In what kind of activities have you participated that illustrate your interest and passion for companion animal behaviour and welfare?
• How are these activities going to influence your functioning during the course? 

In the second part elaborate on your ambition to study companion animal behaviour and welfare.

• Why do you feel attracted to the program?
• What is your motivation to participate in the course of your choice?
• What do you expect to learn during the course?
• What do you think makes you an excellent student for this course?

In the final part of your letter tell us about your future plans.

• How are you going to implement your knowledge in daily practice?
• What are your career plans?
• How does the course help you in achieving your goals? 

For the format of your motivation letter, follow the general guidelines below:

• Write your motivation letter in English or Dutch.
• Maximum length: 3 A-4 pages.
• Include the date, your name, address and email address and sign your letter.
• Save your letter as a PDF file and send it to Adinda Sannen.
• Together with your motivation letter, send your CV and copy of your diploma(‘s).

When seeking to further develop your expertise for a specific role opting for an academically accredited course is highly advantageous. It ensures that you receive a well-rounded and credible education, leading to better career prospects and the ability to provide high-quality services in the field of animal behaviour and welfare for several reasons:

1. Quality assurance: Accredited courses have undergone a rigorous evaluation process to ensure they meet specific standards of quality and effectiveness. This ensures that you receive a high-quality education.
2. Credibility: Completing an accredited course provides you with a recognized qualification, which can enhance your credibility and reputation as a professional in the field.
3. Comprehensive curriculum: Accredited programmes typically follow a well-structured curriculum that covers essential topics and provides a broad and in-depth understanding of animal behaviour and welare and related subjects.
4. Access to resources: Accredited courses have access to resources such as libraries, free access to online scientific journals, and research materials, which can be invaluable for gaining a deeper understanding of the subject.
5. Professional recognition: Many professional organisations and employers prefer candidates with qualifications from accredited programmes. It can make it easier to obtain certifications and find employment in the field.
6. Continued learning: Accredited courses provide options for continuing education and professional development as the acquired academic credits are internationally recognized.
7. Ethical and responsible practices: Accredited programmes emphasize ethical considerations and responsible practices, which are crucial in the field of animal behaviour and welfare to ensure the quality of life of animals.

If you wish to apply for an exemption based on previously acquired qualifications (PAQ), please follow the steps outlined below:

1. Compile a portfolio that includes the following documents:

• A copy of your diploma (if it has not been submitted previously).
• For each module for which you are seeking an exemption:
• Written evidence demonstrating your mastery of the module's content, including your grade and the year in which you completed the module.
• A copy of the ECTS-file for the module you have already completed (in English, Dutch, French, or German).
• A copy of the course syllabus or outline of the module.

2. Submit your portfolio by no later than the 1st of September to: adinda.sannen@odisee.be

The programme coordinator will evaluate your application. You will receive an email notification regarding the outcome of your request before the 23rd of September. If your request is approved, you will be granted the exemption.