STUDY IN THE HEART OF THE SOUTH DOWNS
NATIONAL PARK
Excellent facilities & leading industry experts

NATIONAL PARK
Excellent facilities & leading industry experts
UNIVERSITY COURSE GUIDE
UNIVERSITY
Degrees validated in animal welfare, environment, horticulture and food & drink production
There has never been a more important time to consider studying a degree level qualification related to the environment, animal welfare and science or food & drink production.
With a track record of training degree students in these subjects for over 30 years, it’s clear employers need more new staff trained to these advanced levels than ever before.
Our exciting partnership with the University of Greenwich will further enhance these career opportunities for our graduates, equipping them with the skills needed for impactful, rewarding and sustainable careers in industries that make a difference, rurally, locally and internationally.
With our industry leading facilities and expert staff, now is the time to learn more about how we can help you take your career to another level.
JEREMY KERSWELL PRINCIPAL
FdSc Animal Behaviour & Conservation
If you are looking to top-up your degree to help you on your career journey, this is the ideal course for you - especially if you are looking to work within an animal rescue centre, animal welfare organisation or zoological institution. This Top Up degree focuses on developing a critical understanding of key issues within animal behaviour and welfare science, providing the knowledge and skills required to progress into a range of management, consultancy and husbandry roles within the animal industry.
BSc (Hons) Animal Behaviour & Welfare (Top-Up)
BSc (Hons) Zoology & Animal Conservation (Top-Up)
BSc (Hons) Rural Land & Business Management
BSc (Hons) Sustainable Agriculture
FdSc Sustainable Horticulture Management
FdSc Sustainable Land Management
FdSc Veterinary Nursing
BSc (Hons) Veterinary Physiotherapy
FdA Wine Business
MODULES INCLUDE
BA (Hons) International Wine Business
Animal Cognition & Neuroscience
FdSc Wine Production
Animal Welfare & the Law
Human & Animal Interactions
Graduates typically gain employment with local authorities, government agencies and regulatory bodies, animal rescue and rehoming centres, welfare organisations, zoological organisations and in the animal charities sector.
COURSE DETAILS
BSc (Hons) Viticulture & Oenology
BSc (Hons) Top Up
UCAS CODE: P315
MSc Viticulture & Oenology
Contemporary Advances in Animal Behaviour
Companion Animal Behaviour
FULL TIME: ONE YEAR
PART TIME: TWO YEARS
Student Support & Wellbeing
Counselling
Campus Accommodation
Facilities
Travel
Applying & Next Steps
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£15m invested in campus development and resources
e.g. agri-tech, One Garden
Brighton & AgriFood Centre
GUIDANCE CAREER EXPERT
SUPPORTIVE WELLBEING TEAMS TO HELP WHEN YOU NEED IT
Designed to give you the best knowledge, skills and experience on your course.
Supporting your progression into employment or further study.
£2.2m funding received to develop STEM facilities for higher education and technical training in veterinary and animal sciences.
EXTENSIVE ENRICHMENT PROGRAMME
Providing opportunities to make friends, volunteer, keep fit and learn new skills.
HOLISTIC SUPPORT
FOR YOUR STUDIES, TUTORIALS & WORK
EXPERIENCE
Ofsted Rated ‘ Outstanding’ campus accommodation
Many of who have worked in the industry.
800 hectares* campus
*equivalent to 1,500 football pitches
“An informative and fun course with the opportunity to access a fantastic animal unit and working farm to learn practical skills useful for your career aspirations. The staff support you every step across the two years, helping you achieve your full potential.”
Kickstart your career working in the animal industry with this foundation degree, developing an applied understanding of animal behaviour, biology, health and welfare, animal husbandry and conservation. This degree will develop an applied understanding of animal behaviour, welfare and ethics, animal health, biology and species conservation, providing students with the knowledge and skills they need to progress into a wide variety of career pathways within the animal industry.
Animal Biology
Animal Health
Wildlife & Conservation
Behavioural Ecology
Animal Welfare and Ethics
Management of Animal Collections
Principles of Conservation
Graduates go into a range of careers in animal husbandry, welfare or education-focused roles within the animal industry, including working for key zoological institutions. Other key career pathways include animal health, behaviour, welfare or inspection roles working for local authorities, national agencies and animal charities. Alternatively, graduates progress onto the BSc (Hons) Top Up.
UCAS CODE: P300
FULL TIME: TWO YEARS
PART TIME: FOUR YEARS
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“The high quality of academic teaching in a vast variety of subject areas, the relations and genuine sense of care in my academic and pastoral wellbeing from staff has meant I have felt undoubted support to grow and thrive over my years here.”
If you are looking to top-up your degree to help you on your career journey, this is the ideal course for youespecially if you are looking to work within an animal rescue centre, animal welfare organisation or zoological institution.
This Top Up degree focuses on developing a critical understanding of key issues within animal behaviour and welfare science, providing the knowledge and skills required to progress into a range of management, consultancy and husbandry roles within the animal industry.
Animal Cognition & Neuroscience
Animal Welfare & the Law
Human & Animal Interactions
Contemporary Advances in Animal Behaviour
Companion Animal Behaviour Counselling
Graduates typically gain employment with local authorities, government agencies and regulatory bodies, animal rescue and rehoming centres, welfare organisations, zoological organisations and in the animal charities sector.
COURSE DETAILS
UCAS CODE: P301
FULL TIME: ONE YEAR
PART TIME: TWO YEARS
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If you are looking to top-up your degree to help you on your career journey working in animal conservation, then this is the ideal course for you.
On our immersive degree programme, you will learn about the latest scientific techniques and technological advancements in the field of animal conservation, with a focus on how these approaches are being used to ensure the long-term protection of animal species in captivity and the wild.
Animal Husbandry and Management
Advances in Zoo Science and Conservation
Animal Ecophysiology and Climate Change
Human-Wildlife Conflict and Coexistenc
Public Engagement, Education and Communication
Graduates from the course will be equipped to pursue careers in the following areas of employment with the animal conservation industry: animal education; biodiversity management; ecological consultancy; policy and advocacy and more. Graduates could choose to further specialise at postgraduate level, across a range of disciplines within zoology and conservation.
UCAS CODE: AZAC
FULL TIME: ONE YEARS
PART TIME: TWO YEARS
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Designed specifically for those seeking to pursue a career as rural property and business advisors who wish to qualify with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and Central Association of Agricultural Valuers.
You will develop a thorough knowledge and practical understanding of natural resource use and the industries key to the rural economy. You will build strong technical skills in valuation, law, finance, business appraisal, and building construction while developing practical consultancy skills in identifying and analysing problems on behalf of clients and delivering solutions to property and business challenges.
MODULES INCLUDE
Applied Valuation
Building & Construction
Management
National & Local Taxation
Property Agency & Marketing
Planning & Development
Project Investment & Feasibility
Strategic Rural Asset
Management
COURSE DETAILS
UCAS CODE: RBLM
FULL TIME: TWO YEARS
ACCERLERATED COURSE
FITS AROUND FULL OR PART TIME EMPLOYMENT
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BSc (Hons) 2025 ENTRY
This degree is informed by the significant changes in the UK agricultural industry, post-Brexit, and the global challenges of climate change, food security and natural resource management. It will equip students with the critical skills and knowledge to develop and manage agrifood businesses in the UK and internationally.
You’ll learn about developing sustainable and regenerative agriculture theories and applying them to farm business management incorporating a practical focus on employability, communication, entrepreneurial problem-solving skills and management expertise.
Agronomy & Cropping
Systems
Sustainable Farming
Communities
Farming for Food Security
Sustainable Soil management
Agricultural Business Planning
Advanced Global Livestock & Forage Systems
Ecology, Biodiversity & Natural Resources
UCAS CODE: AG25
FULL TIME: TWO YEARS
ACCERLERATED COURSE
FITS AROUND FULL OR PART TIME EMPLOYMENT
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Sustainable horticulture cultivates plants to improve human life and the natural environment. With increasing demand due to global developments and markets, it’s vital to supply horticulture goods and provide solutions for sustainable food while maintaining healthy and stimulating environments. The industry relies on highly skilled and educated individuals who can utilise innovative technology and sustainable practices to sustain the planet and population.
Understanding Soils & Plants for Effective Management
Data Driven Decision Making
Technological Integration in Horticulture
Growing Systems
Natural Resource
Management
Horticultural Site
Management
Graduates will be in high demand as managers of horticultural enterprises supporting companies to keep up with contemporary technologies and approaches. They can become consultants and researchers helping to drive the industry forward or entrepreneurs looking to set up their own business.
UCAS CODE: P800
FULL TIME: TWO YEARS
PART TIME: FOUR YEARS
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Sustainable land management is an across the board course that allows the student to examine and evaluate the full range of factors that contribute to modern day conservation and farming practices.
Students will be immersed in a practical, theoretical and sustainable learning environment that enables nature recovery, supports food productions and fosters an enduring and positive approach to managing our land in the current day and for future generations across all industries.
Sustainability of Aquatic Ecosystems
Climate Science for Global Futures
Understanding Soils and Plants for Effective Management
Species Monitoring for Sustainable Landscapes
Living Links: Livestock and Communities
Graduates are well placed for employment in both the public and private landbased management sectors, teaching, academia, private practice, research including the postgraduate study of ecology, landscape scale management, species reintroduction and broadbased conservation.
UCAS CODE: P900
FULL TIME: TWO YEARS
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“Great course. Challenging at times but outweighed by being very enjoyable and rewarding. Good theory and practice placement balance.”
If you are looking for a rewarding, progressive lifelong career within the veterinary industry, then veterinary nursing is an excellent choice!
With our purpose built veterinary nursing training suite, hands-on practical experience and up-to-date industry relevant modules, you will gain all the skills necessary to be a successful veterinary nurse.
Veterinary Anatomy &
Physiology
Animal Health & Husbandry
Medical & Critical Care
Nursing
Veterinary Diagnostics
Surgical & Theatre Nursing
Clinical Nursing Skills
Small Animal Nursing
We work closely with many veterinary practices within Sussex and the surrounding counties. You’ll be allocated a work placement practice in your first year – most students will stay with the same practice throughout their training. This is an opportunity for you to become fully integrated within a multidisciplinary team.
COURSE DETAILS
UCAS CODE: D310
FULL TIME: THREE YEARS (WITH SANDWICH PLACEMENT YEAR)
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“Plumpton College has provided a wellequipped professional environment for our studies. The support from staff has been invaluable, and they have helped pave a path towards a successful career.”
Veterinary physiotherapists combine scientific knowledge and clinical expertise to provide treatment and rehabilitation for musculoskeletal conditions in animals, working to reduce pain, improve movement and restore normal muscle control and function.
Designed to provide the knowledge and skills required to practice as a veterinary physiotherapist, graduates meet Day One Competency requirements and are eligible for independent registration with professional bodies within the industry. The programme is delivered remotely with attendance on campus for four weeks practical application.
MODULES INCLUDE
Musculoskeletal Anatomy
Cellular Anatomy & Physiology
Rehabilitation
Biomechanics
Clinical Competency
Graduates may seek employment in a specialist role within a wider veterinary practice but they are also equipped with the professional and business skills required to allow them to work as a self-employed veterinary physiotherapist.
UCAS CODE: 242W
FULL TIME: THREE YEARS
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“Plumpton College is an ideal learning environment, classes are varied and stimulating, and the student body is really diverse in age and background.”
Passionate about the wine industry? With the finest facilities and courses available in the UK, you’ll be able to gain all of the knowledge you’ll need to be successful in this highly competitive global industry. If you want to work in the wine trade or start your own wine-related business, this programme is ideal. This course will offer a fascinating insight into the UK wine trade and develop a range of business skills and an in-depth understanding of the principal wines of the world.
Grape Growing & Winemaking
Wine Marketing
UK Wine Business
Wine Sales and Social Responsibility
English Wine Tourism
You’ll have many opportunities to network directly in the wine industry throughout your course – opening up job opportunities for you after graduation. Many of our successful graduates have gone on to very rewarding careers: business development manager, global wine buyer, independent retailer or sommelier.
UCAS CODE: P500
FULL TIME: TWO YEARS
PART TIME: FOUR YEARS
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“My advice to international students, as I have been one, is just go for it. It’s a great experience and is the only institution in the UK that will give you the knowledge, contacts and solid foundations about wine and wine industry.”
If you are looking to gain a high-level career in the global drinks trade then this unique, academically rigorous and contemporary course is for you.
Over three years of study, you will develop a deep understanding of core business management skills, wine trade knowledge and an in-depth understanding and appreciation of the world’s most important wines.
Operation of a Wine Business
Wine Marketing
Consumer Behaviour & Product Innovation
International Wine Trade
Global Wine Industry
Graduates have entered the industry with first jobs, including business development manager, independent wine retailer, logistics officer, brand ambassador, cellar door manager and junior wine buyer, both in the UK and abroad.
UCAS CODE: P510
FULL TIME: THREE YEARS
PART TIME: SIX YEARS
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“I had no practical winemaking experience before studying - but I have now secured a fulltime winery role in one of the country’s most prominent wineries, which was only possible with the knowledge, experience and confidence gained through studying at Plumpton College. In addition, the ability to top up to the BSc provides a great deal of flexibility.”
Start your career in vines and wines in the heart of the South Downs. If you want to establish a new vineyard or a career in the wine production industry, either in the UK or internationally, then the wine production business course is for you.
You’ll focus on vine growing, with modules such as grapevine biology, vineyard establishment and maintenance, and practical vineyard skills. Gain valuable experience in tractor driving, trellis repairs, and winter pruning, including modules in chemistry, grape processing, and wine analysis.
Vineyard Establishments
Wine Sensory Evaluation
Vineyard Practical Skills
Understanding Wine Styles
Fundamentals of Wine
Science
Our graduates have been well placed for employment in wine production and the wine trade sectors as assistant vineyard managers, cellar masters, governmental agencies such as DEFRA and the Food Safety Agency and research. Graduates tend to top up their foundation degrees within three years of graduation.
UCAS CODE: P600
FULL TIME: TWO YEARS
PART TIME: FOUR YEARS
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“The degree course has geared me up for genuine practical work and has expanded my skills and knowledge to work in vineyards and wineries, both here and abroad.”
Learn the science and master the art of grape growing and winemaking in the heart of the South Downs. Perfect if you want to establish a career in the wine production industry or a new vineyard. This course has a strong practical focus, which blends relevant grape and wine science theory with hands-on work experience. Your classroom will include our 10 hectares of vineyards, and the college’s commercial winery, where you will develop your skills while helping produce our awardwinning still and sparkling wines!
Vineyard Establishment
Fundamentals of Wine
Science
Winery Engineering & Operations
Sparkling Wine Production
Wine Sales and Social
Responsibility
Graduates are well placed for employment in wine production as winemakers, vineyard managers, and in the wine trade sectors. Other routes include teaching, academia, and consulting, working for governmental agencies such as DEFRA and the Food Safety Agency. Alternatively, it could be research, including the postgraduate study of wine production, wine tourism, and wine business.
UCAS CODE: P610
FULL TIME: THREE YEARS
PART TIME: SIX YEARS
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“Plumpton College offers the possibility for students who don’t necessarily have a degree related to viticulture, allowing us to bring different backgrounds and knowledge to the table.”
Do you have a sciencebased degree and looking to transition into the wine industry? In the first two weeks, you’ll attend a twoweek intensive vine growing and winemaking course. This challenging programme is designed to enable you to develop a deep and systematic understanding of wine science and related disciplines, with a view to applying this knowledge to make complex viticultural and oenological decisions.
Grape & Wine Composition
Research Methods & Statistics
Climate Change & Sustainable Wine Production
Science & Application of Winemaking
Graduates work as vineyard managers, viticultural consultants, winemakers or winemaking consultants in the wine trade or wine production anywhere in the world where wine is produced or sold. Alternatively, you may continue your studies to achieve a PhD qualification in a related subject, pursuing a career in analysis and research.
APPLYING: Fill out an application form by contacting enquires@plumpton.ac.uk
FULL TIME: 18 MONTHS
PART TIME: 30 MONTHS
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We understand there are occasions when you will need some support for those unexpected times. Your wellbeing is an essential part of the learning experience, and our location at the foot of the South Downs ensures you’re never too far from nature to take a breather.
There’s a wealth of experienced staff at the college, from lecturers and tutors to a fantastic Careers Team, all here to work with you to help you achieve your goals.
Our Student Wellbeing Team provides advice and short or long term support on a wide range of topics, including; mental health & emotional wellbeing, online safety, bullying and healthy relationships, to name but a few.
We play an active role in our local community each year, getting involved in projects, from local shows to our Raising and Giving Day for our chosen charities.
Our team offers dedicated support for HE students. This can take the form of one-toone support, exam access arrangements. Students who have a learning disability are able to access support with making an application to the Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) from the College’s Inclusive Learning and Development Department.
We have an independent and confidential counselling service you can access if you need it.
We want to give you a fantastic college experience by providing a varied social calendar of trips, visits, clubs and activities that are open and accessible to everyone.
We’re very proud of our residential accommodation. Our excellent facilities cater for up to 200 students in modern, comfortable rooms. Rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted across all areas, you’ll find them a fantastic place to stay.
Offering accommodation on a full board basis, you have all your needs met and can focus on achieving your best in everything you do while studying with us.
Over 18 year old and under 18 year old students are housed in separate accommodation. With a monthly payment plan, prices start at £5,600* per annum, and a deposit is required to secure your room.
full board catering (breakfast, lunch, dinner & snacks - 7 days a week) all utilities included, plus free Wi-Fi
full 24 hours staff support daily cleaning & maintenance support access to all enrichment activities and events
transport to supermarkets and doctors surgeries
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The library has over 10,000 books on land-based subjects, plus a range of magazines and journals, including electronic resources, all to facilitate students’ assignments and research projects.
Our dedicated higher education IT room provides reliable access to a quiet study space and printing facilities. Staff are encouraged to empower students through digital tools in and outside the classroom. Students must also submit assignments online via Turnitin, allowing staff to provide accessible and detailed digital feedback.
For students, run by studentsensuring you are represented through focus groups, forums and regular meetings with the college staff team. Being a part of NUS, you can access the TOTUM card offering over 200 discounts in well known high street shops, travel, food and entertainment
Students can access study rooms for the sole use of those studying for a degree. The rooms are located in the Research & Development building, creating a quiet self-study environment for students. There is also a dedicated common room for students to relax and engage with other degree students.
A centre of excellence for training, education and skills development. Some classroom and lecture based learning will take place here.
Grab a range of hot meals, sandwiches, cakes and drinks from our dining room or head to the Potting Shed or Graze Cafe for lighter bites. We have a variety of eatery options to suit all dietary requirements.
The main campus is nestled at the foot of the South Downs, on the border of East and West Sussex and is easily accessible by bike, bus, car or train.
Students travel to and from college via our extensive bus service. Tickets are priced very competitively, particularly if you purchase an annual ticket that can be paid monthly. You can apply for a bursary to assist with 25100% of travel costs.
Route A - Peacehaven
Route B - Shoreham
Route C - Worthing
Route D - Redhill
Route E - Newick
Route F - East Grinstead
Route G1 - Baldslow via Battle
Route G2 - Bexhill & Hastings
Route H - Tunbridge Wells
Route I - Polegate
Route J - Eastbourne
Route K - Seaford
There’s plenty of free parking on campus available to all students, including dedicated Blue Badge parking.
There are designated parking areas for motorcycles and bike racks to secure your bike.
Take the train to the main local stations; Lewes, Hassocks, Plumpton and Wivelsfield, where you’ll need to connect with a local bus service or take a taxi.
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You will need to submit your application through the University and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) - www.ucas.com/apply.
The institution code name for Plumpton College is PLUMN, and the code number is P59.
You can apply directly to the college, please contact enquiries@plumpton.ac.uk for further details.
You can join us at one of our Open Events throughout the year; they are a fantastic opportunity to explore our campus and learn about our degree courses.
Visit plumpton.ac.uk for a full list of upcoming events.
Student Finance England provides financial support for UK students entering higher and postgraduate education. Visit gov.uk/studentfinance for information.
Our courses are designed to be taught to people from all backgrounds. We believe that our degree courses are both challenging and enjoyable, enabling social mobility and providing improved work and life opportunities.
DISCLAIMER: The information in this course guide is correct at the time of publication but does not form any part of a contract between Plumpton College and the student. Plumpton College does not hold itself liable for any actions taken because of the information given in the course guide. Courses may be subject to occasional changes. Plumpton College maintains the right to close any class which is not viable. For the most up-to-date course information please visit our website.