Hartpury equine student comparing two samples in laboratory

MSci

Equine Science

UCAS Code: D336

Typical offer: 128 UCAS tariff points or equivalent

Duration: 4 or 5 years full time; part-time available

Placement year: Optional

Awarding body: Hartpury University

Apply for this course here: https://www.hartpury.ac.uk/university/courses/undergraduate/msci-equine-science/msci-equine-science-2023/

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Overview

Course overview

Get ahead by completing an undergraduate and postgraduate level qualification in four years. You'll study a range of equine science topics, underpinned by up-to-the-minute research and industry developments. You'll benefit from leading academic and industry expertise and outstanding facilities.

Combining theory with practice on this applied science degree, you'll make use of our outstanding facilities, including our equine therapy centre, industry-standard science labs and horses, all onsite. You’ll hear from leading industry and research experts and strengthen your learning through practical application and field trips.

Throughout the course, you can expect to gain a thorough understanding of how the horse functions and the impact of exercise. After your first year, you’ll be able to tailor your studies with optional modules covering biomechanics, nutrition, therapy, behaviour, health, and stud management.

Your first two years will follow the standard BSc route. You’ll then begin integrating master’s level modules into your learning. Your final MSci year will be dedicated to master’s-level study only, culminating in a significant research project, focused on a topic of your choice.

All you need is a passion for horses and the drive to develop knowledge through research within the equine industry.

How to apply Contact us: +44 (0)1452 702244

What you'll study

Throughout this exciting and industry-leading course, you’ll cover a wide range of equine science topics through compulsory and optional modules.

Core topics include anatomy and physiology of the horse, equine health, nutrition, reproduction and genetics, and exercise physiology. A wide range of optional modules will allow you to specialise your degree to suit your interests and career goals.

Level four (year one)

During your first year, you'll focus on fundamental topics relating to the horse, developing your knowledge of key areas that underpin the rest of the course. Expect to study the equine industry in more detail and explore functional anatomy of the horse. In this first year, we’ll also help you lay the foundations of scientific research and learn more about equine nutrition.

Compulsory modules

Learn about the biological systems of the horse, how they interact and how they can be managed.

Discuss the scope and management of the equine industry in the UK and Europe.

Get to grips with the basics of data analysis, key laboratory practices and safety procedures.

Study the basic principles of equine feeding and nutrition.

Understand the balance between health and disease, and apply management and control theories to practical situations.

An introduction to genetics and its role within the equine population.

Optional modules

Level five (year two)

In your second year, you'll apply the knowledge you have gained in year one in real-world settings and investigate more complex concepts with the support of your tutors. You'll delve deeper into specific areas including nutrition, reproduction, health and disease, and exercise physiology.

Alongside your core modules, you’ll start tailoring your degree to your interests, choosing from our diverse range of applied science modules, such as behaviour or microbiology or biomechanics.

Compulsory modules

Equine Exercise Physiology explores the range of short‐term physiological responses and the long‐term
physiological adaptations that equine body systems undergo during various intensities of exercise and
training. The module considers how this might be used to optimise training for improved performance,
delayed fatigue, and a reduced risk of injury.

Explore the horse’s digestive system, their required nutrient intake for different activities and how to manage a horse’s diet.

This module introduces students to research methods and analysis in equine sciences, helping to prepare
them for reading research literature and conducting research projects in the future.

This module covers immunological concepts and pain physiology in the context of equine diseases and
disorders, including infectious and contagious conditions and associated biosecurity protocols.

Students will cover equine reproductive anatomy and physiology concepts and consider how these

influence successful management of breeding and non‐breeding horses.

Optional modules

This module will also provide students with the opportunity to develop clinical awareness of animal behaviour and develop skills to interpret behavioural expression during patient interactions.

Students will learn about diagnostic procedures used by vets for common lameness conditions.

International Academic Study Project OR International Academic Portfolio

A reflection upon a period of international study.

This module allows student to gain an understanding of stud management when breeding Thoroughbreds or Warmbloods, and challenges this involves. The module combines the application of scientific principles to the required decision making and actions during the annual stud cycle.

Develop an understanding of behaviour of horses and the neurological pathways resulting in the development of these behaviours.

Introduction to Equine Biomechanics aims to create a solid foundation of understanding of the key biomechanics concepts applied to equine and equestrian examples.

Placement year (optional)

An optional integrated placement year between years two and three allows you to put your knowledge and skills into practice and gain valuable industry experience. Many students get their graduate careers with the organisation with which they completed their work placement.

Level six (year three or four)

In year three, contemporary challenges and developments within the field of equine science will feed into modules, requiring you to develop your investigative and critical thinking skills, something essential to scientific research and practice.

Through optional modules, you can focus on your unique areas of interest. The research project module will allow you to complete a significant piece of research, requiring you to plan, implement and report on a specialist topic. You'll also complete your first master’s level module.

Compulsory modules

This module involves independent research and analysis in an animal‐related field with one to one support
from an academic.

Gain exposure to, and analysis of, research across a wide range of topics within the field of equine science
including seminar and conference attendance.

Optional modules

Advanced Animal Microbiology builds on the knowledge and understanding obtained from the Animal Microbiology module at level 5. This module analyses a range of biotechnologies and diagnostics used in the study of animal microbiology, providing students with an in-depth understanding of the underlying principles behind these advanced techniques. Students will evaluate current developments in microbial molecular genetics and how this research is applied to advance treatment and control strategies in veterinary science.

The Applied Equine Biomechanics module utilises the University’s Rider Performance Centre and biomechanical analysis resources to support students in applying and implementing biomechanical principles and theoretical concepts to practical research and industry scenarios.

Evolution of feeding strategies to support athletic performance in the horse, whilst maintaining good health.

Review and evaluate equine sports injuries and exercise intolerance and associated treatment options.

This module appraises current research and practice in complementary therapy and rehabilitation for equine orthopaedic conditions.

Pharmacology covers the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of common drug classes used in veterinary species. The module also examines topics such as resistance and residues, as well as controlled drug prescription, storage and disposal requirements.

Level seven (final year)

Within your final year, you'll be studying completely at master’s level. Developments in research and contemporary challenges will continue to feed into your modules as you’ll be expected to demonstrate critical thinking in your work, applying proven theory and contemporary research to your chosen topics.

Another research project on a topic of your choosing will allow you develop and demonstrate these skills. We’ll encourage you to aim high with your research project, supported by leading equine academics with vast experience of published research.

Compulsory modules

Develop and implement a research project of your choosing.

Discussion of research methodologies and applications, as well as strengths, weaknesses and limitations of different methods.

This module aims to provide students with the knowledge and analytical skills to critically examine the
ethics and the sustainability of practices within the global equine industry in relation to a variety of
stakeholders.

Optional modules

The application and assessment of biomechanical principles to equestrian athletic performance.

This module allows students to explore the fundamentals of equine exercise physiology in the context of different equestrian disciplines and their application to training.

This module introduces you to natural and domestic behavioural patterns of the horse, covering, amongst other topics, learning theory in relation to training and management.

This module aims to provide students with the knowledge and evaluative skills to debate the ethics and practicalities surrounding management of the horse within a range of societal pressures and the wider social responsibilities of the industry.

You will undertake an extended literature review in an area of your choice, supported by an academic supervisor.

Evaluate the practical techniques used within therapeutic care of the sports horse.

Please visit our document library for more module information.

Further module information

How you'll study

We're committed to supporting you to fulfil your unique potential, which is why you'll receive a minimum of 15 hours of scheduled teaching time per week in your first year - this is 25% above the UK average.

Your support network

You'll benefit from a strong support network from day one to be the best you can be. This will range from your personal tutor and specialist academic support team (our Achievement and Success Centre) to dedicated wellbeing and employability (Innovation, Careers and Enterprise) centres.

Your learning experiences

You'll experience a range of teaching methods to strengthen your digestion of topics, including lectures, workshops and practical sessions, as well as supported work placement learning as part of many courses.

Your career

Each year of your course will be made up of two semesters, within which you’ll study compulsory and optional modules on different industry-focused topics, enabling you to develop your own unique portfolio of knowledge, skills and experience, ready for your career.

Further details

You’ll have your own personal tutor while you’re here who will support you to succeed in your studies. You’ll also have access to our academic and wellbeing support teams who run regular workshops and one-to-one sessions on campus and online.

Alongside this, we have a comprehensive bank of online study skills resources to help you make the most of your qualification.

On successful completion of your modules you’ll gain academic credit that accumulates towards your award. The marks you gain in your final two years may contribute towards your final degree classification.

The modules contain a mixture of scheduled learning and independent learning. Scheduled learning can consist of lectures, seminars and practical sessions, allowing for the application of theory in different formats. You'll be expected to dedicate at least two to three hours of independent study per contact hour.

The course is taught in English.

Year	Contact learning	Independent learning	Placement learning
Level four (year one)	27%	73%	0%
Level five (year two)	24%	76%	0%
Placement year (optional)	1%	19%	80%
Level six (year three or four)	17%	83%	0%
Level seven (final year)	16%	84%	0%

You’ll receive a minimum of 15 hours scheduled contact time per week in your first year. In subsequent years, scheduled contact will vary depending on the modules you select but is typically around 12 hours per week.

In your final year, the modules are delivered in weekend blocks alongside our other masters' provision.

You'll be assessed through a mixture of written exams, practical exams and written assignments. Many of the modules will be marked based on a mixture of assessment types, whilst others will be based solely on one type of assessment. Feedback will be given via a mixture of written bullet point-style feedback and/or oral feedback.

Year	Written exam	Practical exam	Coursework
Level four (year one)	44%	50%	6%
Level five (year two)	56%	25%	19%
Placement year (optional)	0%	0%	100%
Level six (year three or four)	19%	25%	56%
Level seven (final year)	0%	21%	79%

Each year of this course is taught over two semesters, normally consisting of 12 weeks of scheduled teaching and then assessment weeks, with an overview below:

During your first three years on campus, scheduled teaching takes place between 8:30 to 20:30 Monday to Friday
Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities
Work placements may entail different days and hours
In your final year (level seven), teaching will be delivered via weekend only, for both full-time and part-time students. Master’s level modules are generally delivered during weekend blocks (Friday – Sunday). On average, you would have no more than two weekends of teaching per month.
In your final year (level seven), you'll be taught alongside master’s students.
Part-time students may need to attend learning activities five days each week, depending on modules selected
Timetables are available during enrolment week

View term dates

Employability

Your career

Industry opportunities on this course are diverse to ensure you develop the skills, experience and connections needed for your graduate career. Many of our students secure graduate roles with their work placement employers.

Work placement opportunities

With the optional integrated placement between year two and year three, you’ll have the opportunity to gain valuable industry experience. We’ll support you to secure a placement with a UK-based or international employer, to match your interests and career goals.

Placements can be paid or unpaid, depending on the position. Students have previously worked with organisations such as the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies (University of Edinburgh) and pharmaceutical companies.

Our commercial Equine Therapy Centre also offers opportunities to gain industry experience – either on work placements or in a voluntary role.

Guest lecturers and field trips

Industry professionals form an important part of your learning, enabling you to experience different businesses and careers. Recent guest lecturers have included professionals from equine nutrition companies, such as Baileys Horse Feeds and Saracens Horse Feeds, Three Counties Equine Hospital, and equine charities, such as Horse World.

Field trips are also used to enhance your learning experience. Recent field trips included visits to Lambourn Equine Vets and the KWPN Stallion Grading in Holland.

Study internationally

Our Study Abroad programme means you can make the most of opportunities to study a semester of your degree at one of our partner institutions, while achieving credits towards your degree. Many students choose to study at Deleware University in the USA.

Discover Study Abroad

Graduate destinations

As an equine science graduate, your career opportunities are diverse. You may go on to work for equine charities, nutrition companies, governing bodies within the wider equine industry or progress into further postgraduate study. Our careers team can support you to find and prepare to secure your perfect role.

Recent graduate destinations have included:

Nutritionist
University lecturer
PhD research
Research assistant

Facilities

World-class facilities

You’ll have access to a diverse range of facilities while you’re here, many of which are newly built and world class. Alongside lecture halls and workshop spaces, these include:

Equine Therapy Centre

The Equine Therapy Centre is home to state-of-the-art equipment including a Sato high-speed treadmill and an Aquafit water treadmill. You'll have the opportunity to gain industry experience working alongside the therapy team. The facilities are also used as part of teaching, providing opportunities for demonstrations and data collection during research projects.

Margaret Giffen Rider Performance Centre

Our Margaret Giffen Centre for Rider Performance is the most advanced rider performance centre in the world at an academic institution. The centre includes a state-of-the-art gym facility as well as our unique racing and eventing simulators.

Commercial yard

We have a large commercial yard with stabling for 230 horses, including 125 boxes for student livery. We take horses on a loan basis, which are used during the semesters for educational and teaching purposes. This provides you with the opportunity to apply theory to practice in topic areas such as behaviour, nutrition and exercise physiology.

Laboratories

Our laboratories are modern and well-equipped, providing the ideal spaces for scientific activities and research. Some are used for specialist microbiological culturing and analysis, others for biochemistry and physiology.

Study spaces

Our University Learning Centre has books, journals, ebooks, computers and breakout study spaces. In addition, we have a Study Lounge – an informal space with sports equipment, study booths and chill-out spaces to support both studying and relaxation.

Entry requirements

UCAS | A typical offer for this course is 128 UCAS tariff points or equivalent.
GCSE | A minimum of 5 GCSE A* to C, (or 9 to 4 where numeric grades are being awarded) or equivalent, to include English Language, Mathematics and a Science.
A-level | Typical offer is ABB or equivalent. This must include a minimum of two A Levels including one in Biology at grade D or above.
Vocational Award | Typical offer is a DMM in an Extended Diploma in a relevant subject.
Access | Typical offer is 128 UCAS tariff points in an Access to Higher Education Diploma to include a minimum of a pass in a Biology module at Level 3.
IB | Typical offer is 128 UCAS tariff points in an IB Diploma, to include a minimum of two Highers at H3 or above, including one in Biology. This must also include Maths and English Language at a minimum of Standard Level S3 if equivalent GCSEs have not been obtained.
Scottish Highers | Typical offer is 128 UCAS tariff points in Scottish Highers. This must include a minimum of one Advanced Higher and one Higher, to include one in Biology.
Irish Leaving Certificate | Typical offer is 128 UCAS tariff points in the Irish Leaving Certificate. This must include a minimum of two Highers, including one in Biology at H4 or above. This must also include Maths and English Language at a minimum of Ordinary Level.
OCR Cambridge Technical | Typical offer is a DMM in a Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma in a relevant subject.
T Level | Typical offer is Distinction in you T Level overall grade in a relevant subject.
We welcome students with equivalent qualifications. Contact the admissions team to discuss further.
We may interview mature applicants and those with non-traditional qualifications to ensure this is the right course for you.
Previous learning towards a university-level qualification or relevant work experience may count as credit for this course.
Please contact us for further information:

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Fees and funding

Tuition fees and financial support

Please visit our student finance page for information on tuition fees and student loans, as well as non-repayable grants, bursaries and scholarships, eligible to different groups, to support with study costs.

Explore student finance

Below, you'll find extra costs associated with studying this course.

Clothing and footwear (circa £100)

You’ll need some specialist kit and clothing for the course, such as yard boots, riding hats and gloves to be prepared for your practical sessions. We’ll let you know exactly what you need to bring before enrolment.

Hartpury University branded clothing is also available through our online shop, for those who wish to purchase it. However, this is not essential.

Visit Hartpury shop

Optional field trips (up to circa £500)

You’ll be encouraged to engage in various trips and visits as part of the course. These are often included as part of the modules. There's also the opportunity to engage in additional study trips, which would incur minimal fees relating to travel and/or expenses.

Optional semester abroad

You'll have the opportunity to take an optional semester abroad in your second year. This will incur additional travel costs.

Accommodation and living costs

Please visit our student accommodation page for details.

Explore accommodation

Livery

We have stabling for 230 horses on campus. If you're interested in having your horse at Hartpury on DIY livery while you study, please visit our livery page for details and costs.

Livery options

Equine Academy

If you have the talent and drive to develop your skills as an equestrian athlete alongside your studies, you may be eligible to join our Equine Academy. For further details including costs, please visit our Equine Academy page.

Visit Equine Academy

Top 10

We’re in the top 10 UK universities for teaching quality (The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide, 2023)

Top 10%

We’re in the top 10% of UK providers for student satisfaction (NSS, 2020)

97%

of graduates are in employment, further study or other purposeful activity (Graduate Outcomes, 2022*)

Advanced technology

Undertake projects in our research-active Equine Therapy Centre with its own high-speed and water treadmills.

Specialist science

Develop expertise in equine diseases and disorders, equitation and biomechanics, as well as stud management.

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Doing what I love

Thalia Edwards, Human and Equine Sports Therapist, BSc and MSc Equine Science graduate

"Finally finding this degree is what bought me back to my passion of being able to work with both the horse and rider. Working closely with the vet, the physio or the chiropractor to enhance to performance of the horse and rider. That’s what I love."

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Get in touch

We would love to hear from you, so please get in touch. You can ask a specific question or simply pop your details in to be kept up-to-date with news and events.

How to apply

You can apply for the MSci Equine Science degree via UCAS.

Apply via UCAS

Success Stories

Improving welfare and performance

Dhruvpal Anchan, MSci Equine Science student

"My goal on this degree is to uncover the science behind classical training methods, and use this to understand and improve horse welfare and performance.

I really enjoyed studying my diploma at Hartpury College, so Hartpury was an obvious choice for university-level study too."

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Further course details

For further details about this course, including the programme specification and module descriptions, please visit our document library.

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Important information

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of our published course information, however our programmes are reviewed and developed regularly. Changes or cancellation of courses may be necessary to ensure alignment with emerging employment areas, to comply with accrediting body requirements, revisions to subject benchmark statements or as a result of student feedback. We reserve the right to make necessary changes and will notify all offer-holders of changes as and when they occur.

*Reflects activities after 15 months for those who graduated in 2020.