Document type: announcement of the launch of a new Master's degree published by theUniversity of Aarhus
Author: University of Aarhus
Preview: The master's programme which primarily focus on farmed animals, enables the student to as well measure, assess, advise and provide guidance on animal welfare issues. The programme is now offered in English, and the website is currently under development. For direct information about the masters programme, please sign up for a mailing list by writing an email to the head of the educational programme, Tine Rousing tine.rousing@anivet.au.dk
The Master in Animal Welfare Assessment has been established to provide further education for professionals who, directly or indirectly, work with animal welfare in their daily activities. The programme originates from the EU Animal Welfare Strategy (2012-2015), which assesses animal welfare based on animal-based indicators rather than regulatory control of animal housing systems. This shift introduces new competency requirements for professionals in the field. Consequently, there is an increasing demand for individuals with expertise in animal welfare who can evaluate, advise, and provide guidance on welfare issues in primary production according to future requirements in the field. You can find the EU Strategy for Protection and Welfare of Animal here.
The Master's programme meets this need through a competency profile that integrates biological, production-related, managerial, political, and communicative aspects of the field. Participants will gain a broader understanding of animal welfare management and access to a valuable international network, thereby raising the overall competency level across the participant group. This programme is unique both in Denmark and within the EU. The programme will be offered for the first time in the spring of 2026, with an application deadline of November 15, 2025. Applicants holding citizenship outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland are advised to apply no later than 1 November 2025, as special entry requirements apply.
