Equine Performance, Health and Welfare - MRes / MSc

Modules

Equine Health(20 credit points)

This module integrates recent advances in equine genetics, immunology, epidemiology and nutrition with current knowledge on the prevention of disease and sickness, in order to safeguard equine welfare. The topics covered include:

- clinical and applied nutrition

- immunology

- parasitology and microbiology

- equine genetic disease, and immunogentics

- global disease factors

- aetiology and epidemiology of equine diseases

This module is assessed by a written assignment (100%)

Equestrian Performance(40 credit points)

Critically evaluate recent developments in the area of exercise physiology, injury and rehabilitation, in relation to performance horse management and welfare. A strong component of this module is the practical application of research tools to the measurement of performance. The topics covered include:

- equitation science

- biomechanics

- exercise physiology

- evaluation of the nutritional management of the performance horse

- assessment of fitness and performance for both horse and rider

- rehabilitation of the equine athlete

This module is assessed by a written assignment (50%) and an exam (50%)

Ethics and Consultation(20 credit points)

Explore ethical aspects of the modern horse-human relationship within the context of recent advances in animal welfare philosophy. Review the ethical and legal implications of advising and consulting within the horse industry in a professional capacity. The topics covered include:

- moral philosophy

- animal welfare and ethics

- cultural and social influences of attitudes to animals

- regulation of animal welfare (in statutory and regulatory organisations)

- the use of the horse in sport, production, research, and as a companion

- consultation, knowledge dissemination, and legal implications

This module is assessed by an oral assessment (50%) and written assignment (50%)

Ethology and Welfare(20 credit points)

Evaluate the behaviour and management of the domestic horse (Equus Caballus) from a comparative ethological perspective. Compare the members of the Equidae and related species, taking account of habitat, ecological niche and patterns of behaviour. Evaluate methods of recording behaviour, and apply findings to the management and behaviour of the domestic horse. Review theoretical and practical methods of evaluating welfare, and apply them to a variety of situations, including stabled horses and those used in conversation projects. The topics covered include:

- diversity of Equidae and related species

- behavioural ecology

- methods of recording behaviour

- behaviour patterns in free-ranging and domestic species

- equine perception and cognition

- practical and theoretical aspects of welfare assessment

This module is assessed by a written assignment (60%) and an oral assessment (50%)Research Methods and Data Analysis(20 credit points)

Learn advanced skills in the interpretation of quantitative and qualitative research data relevant to whole-organism biology, and develop a critical understanding of the ethical considerations involved in the collection of data. You'll present your findings and research in a variety of ways, as well as critically evaluating, interpreting and relaying knowledge gained from secondary sources, to peers.

This module is assessed by coursework (100%)

Research Project(MRes 120 credit points, MSc 60 credit points)

Research in depth a chosen topic area related to equine performance, health, or welfare. Design and implement a relevant research project or equivalent technical or professional enquiry, with a strong aspect of originality. Communicate the findings to an informed audience in a comprehensive scientific report.