What you'll study
MSc
Focus on the application of equitation science principles in real-world practice. You’ll develop knowledge and understanding of the latest scientific advances surrounding the popular area of horse-human interactions. You’ll investigate the benefits of connection for both parties, developing your ability to promote positive affective states.
Practical sessions and demonstrations will facilitate first-hand experience of the application of equitation scientific theory. Our campus provides the base for a range of learning contexts including humans and horses in therapy, competition and leisure. Through our industry networks, you could also study equestrian services (policing or military uses) and the working equid within developing countries.
Projects recently undertaken have uncovered new welfare understanding of nocturnal behaviour, workload modelling, dietary supplement efficacy, performance parameter assessments and the therapeutic benefits of equine therapy.
Whilst learning how to design and deliver evidence-based welfare assessments for the horse, you’ll appreciate the wellbeing of the human partner. You’ll develop your skills using a multidisciplinary approach to explaining horse training, for example, from a learning theory perspective that removes anthropomorphism and emotion.
Enabling you to engage with and influence the wider equestrian industry, you’ll also be supported to understand proven human behaviour change theories, utilising key psychological principles to change minds and improve national and global practice.
Your dissertation will enable you to research an area of your own interest. In addition to compulsory modules, you’ll select from specialist modules in equine biomechanics and further investigate equestrian research. These modules have been designed to widen your appreciation for the role of the horse in society.
Postgraduate Certificate and Postgraduate Diploma
Studying a postgraduate certificate or diploma is ideal for those who want to complete a specific part of this master’s degree, without the academic research (see module section for details of topics included). You’ll have the option to top-up your qualification to a full master’s degree on completion.
Modules
Below you’ll find the modules for this course. Successful completion of your modules will enable you to gain academic credits that may accumulate towards your final master’s degree award (pass, merit or distinction). Modules change each year in line with student, industry and research demands.
- MSc students will study 180 credits, made up of all modules
- Postgraduate diploma students will study 120 credits, made up of all taught modules except for the Postgraduate Dissertation
- Postgraduate certificate students will study 60 credits, including the module Advanced Equine Learning and Cognition
- CPD students can study part of or all of one module and more