BSc Honours Equine Science

This scheme provides a comprehensive understanding of equine science focussing in particular on physiology, breeding and reproduction, health and behaviour, nutrition and performance physiology as well as the management of the horse. It builds on the Institute's acknowledged excellence in animal science research and a long-established reputation in equine science teaching. By providing a scientific and technical training, the scheme will prepare you for a professional career in the equine industry and its allied services. Alternatively, the broad, scientific, foundation which this scheme provides will prepare you for a wide range of career opportunities in the animal science industry.

The Equine Science degree scheme offers you the flexibility of studying abroad - at partner universities elsewhere in Europe or the United States, taking a year out in employment, or taking a short industrial placement. We strongly encourage you to gain some work experience because this significantly enhances your employment potential.

Key features

• 3-year full-time course
• Scientific degree specializing in the horse
• Research based dissertation
• Optional overseas exchange programmes and work experience years
• State of the art research facilities
• Vibrant science and vocational research programme

Content and Structure

The Equine Science degree scheme has a strong base of equine and biological sciences combined with more applied aspects relating to equine management practice. You also have the option of developing your knowledge and skills further by selecting modules in human sport and exercise science; examples include exercise psychology, biomechanics and sport and muscle function.

Years 1 and 2
The first year includes core modules such as physiology, anatomy, performance physiology, nutritional biochemistry, genetics and the equine industry and a choice of optional modules.

Core modules in the second year will develop your understanding of equine performance physiology, nutrition, health and behaviour, immunology and reproductive physiology and animal breeding. You also have a choice of options including grassland management, equine business management, work experience and an equine study tour.

Year 3
The final year aims to complete the process of integrating scientific principles with equine management practice. The core modules include equine stud management, advanced equine nutrition, equine health and parasitology. In addition optional modules are available to develop your interests and specialisms further. A central feature of the final year is an individual research project, on a topic of your choice, upon which your honours dissertation will be based.

Learning and Teaching

In addition to lectures and seminars, a variety of student centred activities, such as laboratory practicals and demonstrations, projects and assignments, and visits to research centres and equine enterprises, help you to integrate science and practice. Module assessment is based on a wide range of coursework as well as written examinations.