Feline Studies Diploma

Name: Feline Studies Diploma
SKU: ODL67
Price: 569 GBP

The Feline Studies Level 3 Diploma course is aimed at improving the knowledge base of pet owners, breeders/exhibitors and those involved with cats professionally.

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Level 3 / Quality Licence Scheme / ODL67

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over 12 months and £ deposit

Course summary

Expert Tutoring

12 months tutor support

24hr Access to

Course, assignments & tutor

Endorsed by the

Quality Licence Scheme

NUS Card Eligibility

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Course introduction

It delivers a wide syllabus of topics to provide the student with an introduction to the width and breadth of the subject area.

Students will expand their knowledge and understanding by studying a whole variety of topics, including historical, practical, legal and scientific aspects of the field of feline studies. These will vary from examinations of folklore, anatomy, genetics, cattery management and animal law.

The Level 3 Diploma in Feline Studies will be awarded to those students who satisfactorily complete all 10 Units of this course and a final online examination. Materials can be studied online or students have the option to print the documents once, there is also the option to have the materials delivered for an additional charge.

Required knowledge

No previous knowledge or experience is essential to study this course.

Assessment

Final online multiple choice examination counts for 100% of the final grade. Throughout the course there are ten SAPs (coursework) and a thesis. The course clearly states that this is not mandatory to complete as it has no bearing on the final grade. We do suggest that students complete these as this will not only assist them in examination preparation but also will give the student the skill set should they wish to continue their studies (continuous professional development) at a higher level.

Certification

At the end of this course successful learners will receive a Certificate of Achievement from Quality Licence Scheme and a Learner Unit Summary (which lists the components the learner has completed as part of the course).

The course has been endorsed under the Quality Licence Scheme.The Provider has undergone an external quality check to ensure that the organisation and the courses it offers, meet defined quality criteria. The completion of this course alone does not lead to a regulated qualification* but may be used as evidence of knowledge and skills gained.

The Learner Unit Summary may be used as evidence towards Recognition of Prior Learning if you wish to progress your studies in this subject. To this end the learning outcomes of the course have been benchmarked at QLS Level 3 against level descriptors published by Ofqual, to indicate the depth of study and level of demand/complexity involved in successful completion by the learner.

The Quality Licence Scheme is part of the Skills and Education Group, a charitable organisation that unites education and skills-orientated organisations that share similar values and objectives. With more than 100 years of collective experience, the Skills and Education Group’s strategic partnerships create opportunities to inform, influence and represent the wider education and skills sector.

The Skills and Education Group’s knowledge and experience of working within the awarding sector enables them to work with training providers, through the Quality Licence Scheme, to help them develop high-quality courses and/or training programmes for the non-regulated market.

*Regulated qualification refers to those qualifications that are regulated by Ofqual / CCEA / Qualification Wales.

Course modules

Module 1: Origins of the domestic cat
This module will form a sound basis for the rest of the course by examining how the modern domestic cat came to be uniquely important to the people of the world. The module covers the following topics:

- Evolution
- Domestication throughout the world
- Cats and religion
- The rise and fall of cats in Europe
- Folklore, legends and magic

Module 2: Anatomy and Physiology
This science based module examines the cats' physical body from the cellular level to its external anatomy. It introduces basic biological principles which can be applied to all other animal species although it focuses specifically on domestic felines. Body systems such as the neurological, digestive and reproductive systems are included in their own later modules. Module 2 covers the following topics:

- External points of the cat
- Cells, tissues, organs and organ systems
- Locomotory system, including skeleton and musculature
- Circulatory systems. Heart, blood and lymphatic systems
- Urinary system
- Endocrine system

Module 3: Neurophysiology and sensory systems
Building on the knowledge in module 2 this module examines how information about the internal and external environment is transmitted around the body. The topics in module 3 include:

- Homeostasis. How the body maintains a constant internal environment
- Structure and function of nervous cells and tissues
- The brain
- Sense receptors, light, chemical and Sound

Module 4: Nutrition
Adding to the knowledge gained in modules 2 and 3 this module examines how a cats body gains the substances needed to grow and maintain life. This may appear to be an uncontroversial subject, but pet food is a big business and the module will also examine how this business emerged and some of the debates it engenders. The module includes discussions of biology, husbandry and a debate about the commercial industry.

- Classification of nutrients/signs of deficiency
- Digestive system anatomy and physiology
- Feeding cats
- Commercial food industry

Module 5: Reproduction
The cat is a prolific species, in the wild in spite of its status as a predator, its relatively small size means that it is not safe from other predators. Its reproductive strategy involves producing many young in order to ensure some survive to adulthood. This module will examine feline reproduction from oestrus to weaning. Other subjects connected with reproduction such as genetics, breeding systems, and preventing reproduction will be dealt with in future modules.

- Male and female reproductive anatomy
- Breeding cycles and puberty
- Pregnancy and birth
- Kitten development
- Controlling breeding

Module 6: Behavioural science
As cats have become increasingly popular as companion animals during the last century, the relatively new interest in their behaviour has resulted in increased research into their behaviour, both endearing and problematic. This module will examine how cats interact with each other, (communication, territorial and dominance behaviour) and discuss behavioural development in kittens. It will also discuss feline behaviour problems from a human point of view.

- Feline communication. Body language, expression, scent and posture
- Behaviour development. Newborn reflexes to social animal
- Problem behaviour. Urine marking, middening, aggression

Module 7: Genetics
This module will examine the subject of genetics and inheritance from the basic building blocks of the genome, to the determination of a particular individuals characteristics. An understanding of genetics is necessary for anyone thinking of breeding cats as well as determining the reasons why certain cats have particular characteristics. Colour, pattern and coat length will be discussed in detail as examples of obviously recognizable characteristics, although the principles described are equally applicable to body form/size, temperament and in certain cases behaviour. Although concentrating on scientific aspects of the topic, a brief review of breed specific mutations is included.

- Genome and definitions
- Inheritance of specific characteristics ( colour/pattern/coat length)
- Breed specific mutations

Module 8: Health
Cats, like all other living organisms occasionally suffer from ill health, although many domestic cats will only meet a veterinarian for routine check ups, vaccinations and neutering. Nevertheless ill health can occur in even the most well cared for animal and this module will explore the various diseases and conditions which bring about poor health. Broadly speaking these conditions/diseases can be divided into 2 groups, those a cat catches e.g. as the result of infection/parasites or those that are non-infectious, encompassing genetic problems, cancers and nutritional disorders (module 4). Specific examples of diseases, their symptoms and prevention will be discussed but this course is not intended to be, not should be considered as, a substitute for veterinarian diagnosis and treatment.

- Infectious disease. Viral, bacterial, fungal infections, vaccination, and parasites
- Non infectious disease (cancer/genetic disease)

Module 9: Husbandry
Although many cats live out their lives in 1 or two animal pet home, many others live together in larger groups, either due to specific planning by humans, or as a result of neglect. Many cats will experience such conditions in their lifetimes, either by being bred in a cat breeder's establishment, falling on hard times and being 'rescued' by a charity organisation or living out their lives without close human contact as ferals. This module will examine the practical way in which larger numbers of cats can be cared for on a regular basis. It will examine procedures used in rescue/feral control organisation and the care and procedures used in boarding and breeding catteries.

- Rescue organisations (history/procedures, feral colony management)
- Boarding/pedigree catteries (Procedures, breeding programs, line-breeding, in-breeding and out crossing)

Module 10: Rules and regulations
Cats inevitably are included in the rules, laws and regulations our societies need to function due to their close association with humans. This module will examine some of the history behind animal legislation around the world, as well as current and proposed regulations. It will also discuss the sometimes widely differing rules surrounding 'pedigree' cats within different governing cat associations and the implications for the animals belonging to the members of those organisations.

- Animal welfare/abuse legislation, history and worldwide
- Pedigree organisation regulations.
- Different breed recognition, ethics, showing, and breeding

Learner support

12 Months Tutor Support. Tutors are available to answer student questions relating to course materials and to comment on the assignments that are sent in to state how well students have understood the unit content.

FAQs

What does NCC stand for?

NCC originally stood for the National Consortium of FE (Further Education) Colleges. This brought together the FE Colleges to achieve the best provision. Regular national meetings were attended by both Colleges and Government agencies who funded them. This was very helpful to them both to best deliver training to their students.

For more than 25 years NCC has supplied FE Colleges with learning materials as well as student marketing.

NCC now specialise in online training of a very high quality to students both self-funded, paid for by schools, employers and training providers.

What is distance learning?

Distance learning is the most flexible and convenient approach to studying. There is no need for you to attend college and you can study anytime, anyplace, anywhere that fits in with your lifestyle. Distance learning programmes are ideal for people who may have a job, family commitments, or any other commitment that won’t allow them time off to study.

What is the difference between the online and paper versions of courses?

Both our online and paper courses are completed via an online learning portal (LMS) which you can access after you receive your login details by email. Please ensure that you check your junk email if you do not receive your login details within 48 hours.

All learners will submit their assignments, receive feedback and correspond with their tutor directly through the LMS. If you require help from our support team, then simply email [email protected].

If you opt for the online course, you will not receive any course materials through the post. Everything is available via the LMS.

If you opt for the paper version, you are simply paying for a study book to be printed and posted to your home, or place of work. You will use this book as a reference guide, but you will still be required to upload your assignments and correspond with your tutor via the LMS.

If you are unable to access our online LMS, we do have alternative options available, so please email [email protected] in order to request further support.

What do I need to do to get started?

We recommend that you choose a course that will interest you and help you to achieve your ambitions. If you would like some advice, or further information, contact us here or dial 0333 3445 690.

To purchase a course, simply click on the ‘Buy now’ button against your chosen course and follow the on screen instructions. Alternatively if you would prefer to purchase the course over the phone, call 0333 3445 690 and speak to one of our expert course advisors.

How much will it cost?

The price largely depends on the size and duration of the course. The course cost is determined by the expenses associated with its provision, taking into consideration the course's size and complexity, development costs, study materials, and the level of tutor support required. Some courses also necessitate additional in-person assessments by assessors, which incur additional expenses and consequently affect the course's cost.

The cost for each course is always listed clearly on the course description page before you make a purchase.

Additionally, extra fees may apply for courses that require externally monitored assessments (such as A Levels or ICB qualifications). For more details, it's best to consult with one of our course advisors.

How do I enrol?

Once you've chosen your course, you have two options for enrolment:

You can purchase the course online by clicking the "Buy now" button, which will enrol you automatically.
Alternatively, you can call our helpline at 0333 3445 690, and our expert course advisors will assist you in signing up for the course and arrange for the delivery of any requested additional learning materials to your address.

All courses are available to purchase in full or via affordable monthly payments over 12 months. A £29 non-refundable deposit is required for monthly payments, and you will be required to set up a monthly direct debit.

We do not require you to complete a credit check to sign up for monthly payments.

How quickly will I receive my course materials?

We ensure that you will receive your ordered course materials within 5 working days of registration, though for many courses, delivery may take as little as 48 hours.

Your course materials will be sent through a tracked courier service to guarantee delivery of your study book within the specified timeframe.

Do I need any additional books or equipment to do my course?

All the relevant information required to complete your course is available via the LMS. Additional research via the internet is encouraged, depending on the level you are working at, to bolster knowledge of the subject area.

There is no requirement to purchase any additional materials.

What support will I receive?

You will have access to a dedicated personal tutor whom you can contact through the Learning Management System (LMS) for assistance and guidance on any course-related matters. Your tutor will only initiate contact in response to your messages. If you encounter any difficulties reaching your tutor, please don't hesitate to email us at [email protected].

Many courses require you to submit work to your tutor during the period of study, and your tutor will assess your work and provide feedback to you within 10 working days. Your tutor is available to you as much as you need them.

Please note that the course includes tutor support for a duration of 12 months. If you require additional time, please inform us, and we will make every effort to provide you with an option for a paid extension, if feasible, to assist you in completing your course.

Please be aware that our tutors are actively assisting multiple learners, and to ensure they are not inundated with excessive workloads, we have implemented a policy limiting learners to submitting a maximum of three units of work for evaluation at any given time. We recommend that you upload your completed units as you finish them. This way, you can benefit from your tutor's feedback to enhance your future assignment submissions.

How long will it take for my work to be marked by my tutor?

Your work will be marked and feedback returned to you within 10 working days after submission. This is because our tutors are required to provide detailed, considered feedback to our learners that may take a while to formulate. We find that by working this way, our learners actually complete their course in less time, as they rarely need to submit an assignment more than twice.

Whilst it is possible to submit multiple assignments at the same time, we advise that our learners submit only one at a time. We want our learners to develop as they progress through their course, and find this is best achieved when a student embarks on a new module having taken into account tutor feedback from the previous submission.

Kindly note that our tutors are currently supporting multiple learners simultaneously. In order to maintain a balanced workload for them, we have established a policy that restricts learners to submitting a maximum of three units of work for evaluation at any given time.

How long should it take to complete a course?

The time needed to complete your course depends on the specific course you've chosen and the time you're able to dedicate. Generally, it can take anywhere from 6 weeks to 12 months. You'll usually have up to 12 months from the date of purchase to complete your course if you wish to receive your certificate, this is your end of support date.

One of the biggest advantages of distance learning is the flexibility it offers. You can study at your own pace, fitting your coursework around your personal schedule and commitments. There's no pressure—no one will be chasing you to submit work or asking why you haven't turned in an assignment.

That said, we recommend considering your availability before enrolling to ensure you can devote enough time to stay motivated and complete the course within a reasonable timeframe.

Will I have to sit an examination?

All of our courses are fully accredited, and to successfully complete them, you'll need to demonstrate your understanding. Depending on the course you choose, this could involve an examination, but the assessment methods can vary.

For some courses, you'll be continuously assessed throughout your studies, while others may require a final exam or an assignment, which can be done from home and submitted to your tutor.

For specific qualifications like A-levels and GCSEs, you will need to sit invigilated exams at a registered test centre. You'll be responsible for arranging and covering the cost of these exams, but full guidance will be provided by the centre delivering the qualification.

If you have any questions or need further clarification, feel free to email us at [email protected]. We can help or connect you with the course provider for more details.

Will I receive a qualification when I complete the course?

All of our courses are accredited and you will receive a certificate upon successful completion of the course.

For more information about this please see the section of the website that details how awarding bodies work and what the different types of qualifications are: https://www.ncchomelearning.co.uk/awarding-organisations

Can I take more than one course at a time?

Yes, you can take as many courses as your time allows, but we would recommend that you clearly evaluate how much time you can commit to your courses of study.

The good news is that if your circumstances change you can always take a limited break and come back to your studies to save your paid for support.

If you decide to enrol on more than one course at the same time, speak to our enquiries team for any bundle deals or offers.

Can I enrol and study outside the UK?

Absolutely! In most cases, our courses are accessible regardless of where you're located. However, some courses may have geographical restrictions set by the Awarding Organisation, and any such limitations will be clearly outlined in the course details.

Keep in mind that all of our tutors are UK-based, and while most work can be submitted via email, there may be rare instances where submissions need to be sent by post.

For courses that require a monitored exam, there are many test centres available internationally. If you're planning to study from abroad, we recommend reaching out to us before purchasing the course to ensure everything is in place for your studies.

What if I’ve chosen the wrong course?

If, after receiving the course, you decide it isn’t the right course for you, you may return the materials within 14 days, provided you have not yet submitted any coursework for evaluation. Please note that you will be responsible for covering the return shipping costs. We will refund your payment, minus a non-refundable deposit of £29. Additionally, you have the option to select an alternative course that better matches your goals and aspirations.

For any help on cancelling your course please email [email protected], we will only deal with cancellation enquiries via email.

What is a Totum Card?

Totum is the new brand for UK student cards and replaces the old NUS student card. NCC students are eligible to sign-up for the Totum card where applicable, giving access to a multitude of retail, food and travel special discounts. For more information, you can visit their website: https://www.totum.com/