Hartpury University has announced a new MSc animal assisted counselling degree (as well as a postgraduate diploma pathway).

The new course, set to start in September 2024, has been designed exclusively for those already qualified as mental health practitioners, including psychologists and counsellors. It will help them to develop their understanding and expertise in using Animal Assisted Services (AAS) within their practice.

The MSc animal assisted counselling will give mental health providers a theoretical and practical understanding of effectively working with animals.

The programme will explore the philosophical, ethical and practical frameworks that underpin AAS. In line with Hartpury University's wider postgraduate offering, it will empower students to influence positive change in industry and maintain best practice when working with animals in human mental healthcare.

As well as refining skills to maximise welfare and wellbeing for humans and animals in AAS, mental health practitioners on the course will gain a greater understanding of companion and working animal regulations, allowing them to ensure their practice remains legal and compliant.

Through developing an understanding of animal learning theory, students will be better informed and educated about selecting, handling and training animals within AAS. They'll also critically evaluate the scientific basis and limitations for AAS provision.

The degree will be led by a team of experienced academics, researchers and practitioners at Hartpury University, ensuring students receive high quality, research-informed teaching and mentorship throughout their studies.

The MSc animal assisted counselling can be studied part-time, with flexible delivery to fit around practice work and other commitments. Among other dedicated modules, a dissertation will allow those on the MSc pathway to research an area of their own interest in relation to animal assisted counselling under the guidance of a relevant academic.

Dr Clare Thomas-Pino is programme manager for the MSc, and has a background in psychology, animal behaviour and mental health counselling. Her research activities have focused on ensuring optimal wellbeing for the animals that work within AAS.

She said: "Those studying the programme will explore the many benefits of this discipline, while also considering practice, ethics, legality and research. As is the case across all of our animal degrees, the programme places a strong focus on animal wellbeing and all activities will be adopted with our One Health, One Welfare approach.

"The programme aligns with our commitment to providing innovative, relevant education that prepares students to make meaningful contributions in their chosen fields."