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Training on Experimental Animal Use, Regulations & Procedures

ProfCert (NFQ Level 9)

This course is available through the following application route(s)

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Designed to achieve the objectives of training personnel involved in use of animals for experimental research in line with the requirements of Article 23 of Directive 2010/63/EU 
  • New EU-Regulations on requirements for conducting research involving animals
  • Animal welfare and responsibilities of researchers
  • Study designs and Bio-statistics
  • Basic animal physiology
  • Competency in basic and routine animal care procedures
  • Competency in relevant experimental procedures

About This Course

  • Define and critic the requirements under National legislation for using animals for research or teaching.
  • Define and discuss humane and recommend appropriate methods of euthanasing animals used for research or teaching.
  • Demonstrate the necessary skills for animal care, health and management.
  • Describe and critic animal husbandry, care and enrichment practices.
  • Describe the basic and appropriate biology of species specifically used in research or teaching.
  • Discuss, research and apply best practice in ethics, animal welfare and the principles of Three Rs (Reduce, Refine and Replace).
  • Explain basic principles of surgery.
  • Identify and discuss the use of anaesthesia for minor procedures.
  • Optimally design procedures and projects involving the use of animals for research or teaching utilising best practice.
  • Recognise and assess pain and distress in animals used for research or teaching and to be able to formulate and implement a plan to minimise suffering.

Below is a list of all modules offered for this degree in the current academic year. Click on the module to discover what you will learn in the module, how you will learn and assessment feedback profile amongst other information.

Incoming Stage 1 undergraduates can usually select an Elective in the Spring Trimester. Most continuing undergraduate students can select up to two Elective modules (10 Credits) per stage. There is also the possibility to take up to 10 extra Elective credits.

Module Type Module   Trimester Credits
Stage 1 Core Modules
VET40460 TEARAP Autumn&Spring&Summer(separate)  5

This programme is recognised by HPRA (Health Products Regulatory Authority) as an appropriate accredited scientific animal training course.

ProfCert Training on Experimental Animal Use, Regulations & Procedures (D048) Part Time
EU/NONEU    fee per year - € 1075

***Fees are subject to change

Funding and Scholarships: None

Applicants are required to have a degree with appropriate background in the biological sciences.

Applicants will require a computer with a webcam and reliable high-speed broadband Internet access as well as an intermediate level of IT skills (be able to browse the Internet, download files, use email, complete online forms, use software such as MS Excel and Word).

You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), as UCD recognises formal, informal, and/or experiential learning. RPL may be awarded to gain Admission and/or credit exemptions on a programme. Please visit the UCD Registry RPL web page for further information.

Part Time option suitable for:

Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes
International (Non EEA) applicants: No


Applicants intending to submit individual or project authorization applications to HPRA (Health Products Regulatory Authority) in Ireland.



Students with an undergraduate degree, interested in completing 5 credits module to gain knowledge on Experimental Animal Use, Regulations and Procedures in European Union.


General application route(s) for Irish/UK/EU applicants* for International (non-EU) applicants* to Training on Experimental Animal Use, Regulations & Procedures:

ROWCLASS Apply to   Application Type  
showAudience-audienceEU showAudience-audienceInt D048
Training on Experimental Animal Use, Regulations & Procedures
Professional Certificate
Part-Time
Commencing September 2024
Graduate Taught Not available to International applicantsClosed
* you can change options at the top of the page