Equine Science

Equine science applies the methods and principles of biology, physiology, anatomy and applied science to the understanding of the horse. It is a discipline that takes seriously both the scientific and the practical dimensions of working with one of the most important animals in human history, asking how the horse's body functions at rest and under the demands of training and competition, and how that understanding can be used to optimise health, welfare and performance. It draws on exercise physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, veterinary science and equine behaviour, and it develops graduates who can work at the intersection of science and professional equine practice.

This three-year full-time degree at Hartpury University includes a sandwich year with a work placement, giving you professional equine industry experience alongside your academic studies. The university's facilities are unusual in providing direct access to horses on campus, including an equine therapy centre and industry-standard science laboratories, which means the theoretical content of the degree is grounded in practical engagement with the animals themselves throughout. You will study exercise anatomy and physiology, the impact of training and exercise on the horse's body systems, equine nutrition, health and welfare, and the application of scientific methods to performance and rehabilitation.

Graduates work in equine performance and conditioning, equine therapy and rehabilitation, breeding, yard management, equine research, veterinary support roles and the wider equine industry. The scientific grounding the degree provides also equips graduates for roles in agricultural and animal science more broadly, as well as in equine product and technology development. Further study in veterinary science, animal science or equine-specific postgraduate programmes is a route for those who wish to develop specialist clinical or research expertise.