BSc (Hons) Equine Science and Business (Professional Placement Year)
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-29 | - |
Program Overview
BSc (Hons) Equine Science and Business (Professional Placement Year)
Course Overview
The equine industry generates huge amounts of revenue for some of the world’s major economies and is the second largest economy in the rural sector. The industry is continually looking for bright, skilled graduates. As well as benefiting from a blend of practical exercises and academic knowledge, you will gain essential experience with a work placement. You will also tap into our powerful network of industry contacts, including graduates from the University.
Course Content
Develop a wide skillset in both business and science through a series of lectures, tutorials, case studies, laboratory practical exercises, demonstrations, and visits. Modules are assessed through a range of methods, including exams, portfolios, group work tasks, and individual presentations.
The research project is an integral part of the course and provides essential experience in both design and execution of a piece of research. You can choose to focus on either science or business, and you could also see your research project featured in one of the many academic journals that regularly publish our students' work.
Timetables
Please note that while we make every effort to ensure that timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled teaching can take place on any day of the week. Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and societies activities.
Modules
Each module is worth a specified number of credits. Each credit equates to 10 hours of total study time. Total study time includes scheduled teaching, independent study, and assessment activity.
Full-time students normally take modules worth 60 credits per 15-week semester but this can vary depending on your elective choice. Part-time students taking proportionally fewer credits per semester. All students take a total of 120 credits per level and 360 credits for the degree as a whole. Your overall grade for your degree is based on marks obtained for modules taken at level 5 and level 6 (weighted 30:70 accordingly).
The modules available for this degree are shown below. They may change for your year of study as we regularly review our module offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
Year One
- 1247 Equine Breeding and Genetics: Explore the structure of the policy network within the equine industry
- 1314 Equine Anatomy and Physiology: Discover the structure and function of the major organs and systems of the horse
- 1415 Global Business Environment: Gain an understanding of the economic, political, and cultural factors which constitute the Global Business Environment
- 1440 Academic and Practical Skills: Learn and try out a range of practical skills used in the land and farming sectors
- 1443 Business Finance and Accounts: Learn the fundamentals of accountancy and use software to create and clearly present financial information
- 1447 The UK Equine Industry: Explore the structure of the policy network within the equine industry
- 1448 Introduction to Equine Health and Disease: Define common equine diseases and routine management of these conditions
- 1450 Introduction to Equine Nutrition: Explore the nutrient composition of feedstuffs for equids
Year Two
This programme will allow students who join the British Society of Animal Science (BSAS) to gain student accreditation on the Royal Society of Biology’s register of accredited animal scientists and technologists. The accreditation will provide you with international recognition as an accredited animal scientist.
- 2032 Marketing Management: Identify and interpret relevant market research data to recommend future strategic directions for a company
- 2317 Industry Placement: Complete 15 weeks of work experience to develop key skills for the world of work
- 2337 Personal and Professional Development Skills and Employability: Review and critically assess professional communication standards and other competencies needed for successful client and business management
- 2375 Livestock Husbandry Systems: Explore approaches to farm animal husbandry and how this impacts farm animal health and welfare
- 2378 Research and Evidence: Explore the wide range of research methodologies available, and learn how to select the optimal approach for a given scenario
- 2384 Equine Sports Physiology and Nutrition: Apply the scientific principles of exercise physiology to optimise horse fitness for a range of disciplines
- 2385 Equine Veterinary Science: Gain practical experience and understanding of techniques that are used in diagnostic laboratories
- 2387 Equine Behaviour and Welfare Applications: Apply equine behavioural science to the training and welfare of horses
- 2388 Sustainable Forage and Turf Management: Analyse the nutrient content of forage sources for equids and experience the practical management of equine sports turfs
Year Three
You will undertake your placement year during year three of your programme. You will complete Years 1 and 2, complete the placement year, and then return for your final year of the programme.
- PPY Professional Placement Year
Year Four
- 3344 Advances in Equine Nutrition: Explore recent advances in the field of equine nutrition research
- 3343 Advances in Equine Health: Explore the regulations that underpin professionals working with horses and the use of veterinary medicines in the context of ‘One Health’
- 3300 Research Project / Dissertation: Develop a detailed research proposal that presents a well-developed research aim supported by clear research objectives
- 3332 Specialist Study: Undertake a self-directed study within the chosen specialist area
PLUS your choice of THREE electives selected from:
- 3345 Equine Assisted Services for Human Wellbeing: Explore the horse-human bond and relate this to therapeutic applications for humans
- 3206 Equine Breeding Management: Investigate the physiological basis of reproduction in both the mare and stallion
- 3217 Advances in Training the Equine Athlete: Synthesise principles from equine physiology, genetics, behaviour, and welfare and apply these to the management of the equine athlete
- 3316 Changing Consumer Behaviour: Interpret consumer behaviour using concepts from diverse disciplinary perspectives including psychology, sociology, anthropology, and consumer culture
- 3242 Negotiations in Business: Explore the process of negotiation as a form of persuasion and problem-solving within professional and personal communication contexts
- 3325 Rural Entrepreneurship: Gain the skills needed to successfully launch your own business
- 3238 Advances in Livestock Nutrition: Critically evaluate the impact that modern commercial livestock nutrition has on animal and human welfare
The availability of electives to individual students will be dependent on timetabling considerations and on sufficient students electing to take part.
Careers and Graduate Destinations
Our graduates have gone on to pursue careers within companies worldwide and within a wide range of roles. This combined course allows you to choose which field will best suit your interests. Graduates have typically gone into the following roles:
- Research scientist
- Stud manager
- Brand manager
- Technical sales representative
- Trainer
- Event manager
Entry Requirements
Typical Offers
Required: GCSE minimum five GCSEs at Grade C/4 including English Language and Mathematics (or Maths Numeracy for Welsh applicants) plus satisfactory level 3 qualifications, one science-based subject is highly recommended for this programme (Biology / Applied Science / Animal Science):
- A-Level: (example grades CCC) – minimum of 96 UCAS tariff points (applicants should have either three A-levels or two A-level and two AS level subjects or equivalent qualifications)
- C&G Advanced Technical/BTEC - Level 3 Extended Diploma (1080) at Merit-Merit-Merit
- C&G NPTC/C&G Advanced Technical/BTEC - Level 3 Diploma (720), Extended Certificate (360) and 90-Credit Diploma (540) acceptable when accompanied by other Level 3 qualifications
- International Baccalaureate: 26 points
- Access to Higher Education: 45 credits at level 3, of which a minimum of 15 must be awarded at Distinction and 15 at Merit or higher (Pass at Functional Skills level 2 are accepted in lieu of GCSE English & Mathematics)
Other level 3 qualifications will be considered.
Flexible Entry
The University welcomes interest from applicants who may not have the standard entry requirements. A wide range of qualifications and experience are accepted in order to join University degree programmes. The University always considers evidence of personal, professional (APL) and educational experience, (APEL), which show an ability to meet the demands of their intended programme of study.
Fees
Tuition fees cover the cost of a student’s academic studies. This usually includes teaching costs, registration, and examination fees (not repeat or trailing modules, re-sit fees or coursework resubmission). Any costs associated with work placements will be the student's responsibility.
Applicants
For the academic year, the tuition fees for this course are:
| UK | International | |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time | £9,535 per year | £16,950 per year |
| Placement year | £1,905 per year | £3,390 per year |
For part-time study, please contact the University for further information.
Please also refer to the funding your time at university page.
Tuition fees may be subject to an inflationary increase each year as set out in our Access and Participation Plan and are subject to Government and regulatory body conditions.
If you are an Irish national you can check if you meet the requirements for Home Fees. Please visit the UKCISA website and consult the pdf guide “England HE – who pays Home Fees”. First check category ‘3 years in Republic of Ireland/UK/Islands, settled in UK’ or ‘Brexit temporary offer for courses starting before 2028: Irish citizens with residence in Europe or overseas territories’. You will possibly need to be fee assessed when you submit an application for study to the RAU.
Scholarships
The University offers a wide range of generous fee waivers and bursaries. To find out more about these, please visit the bursaries, awards, and scholarships page.
Program Outline
(Hons) Equine Science and Business (including Agriculture or Bloodstock routes) (Professional Placement Year)
Degree Overview:
This four-year degree program provides a unique combination of scientific rigor and business expertise in the dynamic equine industry. It aims to equip graduates with a comprehensive understanding of equine science, management, and business principles, enabling them to pursue diverse careers in this booming field. The program offers three pathways: The program's key features include:
- Industry-relevant curriculum: The program incorporates a dynamic blend of lectures, tutorials, practical exercises, laboratory sessions, demonstrations, and industry visits. This immersive learning experience equips students with the essential knowledge and skills for successful careers in the equine sector.
- Research project: The program culminates in a research project, allowing students to deepen their understanding of a chosen area and develop critical research and analytical skills. This project may be published in academic journals, showcasing the high quality of research conducted by students.
- Professional placement year: The third year of the program involves a 12-month placement in the industry, providing invaluable work experience and professional development opportunities. This placement allows students to network, gain real-world experience, and build a strong foundation for their future career.
Outline:
Year 1:
- Equine breeding and genetics
- Equine anatomy and physiology
- Global business environment
- Academic and practical skills
- Business finance and accounts
- The UK equine industry
- Introduction to equine health and diseases
- Introduction to equine nutrition
Year 2:
Equine Science and Business:
- Marketing management
- Personal and Professional Development Skills and Employability
- Research and evidence
- Equine sports physiology and nutrition
- Equine veterinary science
- Equine behaviour and welfare applications
- Sustainable forage and turf management
Agriculture:
- Animal health and welfare
- Livestock husbandry systems
- Marketing management
- Personal and Professional Development Skills and Employability
- Research and evidence
- Equine veterinary science
- Sustainable forage and turf management
Bloodstock:
- Global bloodstock production
- Personal and Professional Development Skills and Employability
- Research and evidence
- Equine veterinary science
- Sustainable forage and turf management
- Equine sports physiology and nutrition
- Equine behaviour and welfare applications
Year 3:
Professional placement year
- Students gain industry experience and develop professional skills.
Year 4:
Equine Science and Business:
- Advances in equine nutrition
- Advances in equine health
- Research project/dissertation
- Specialist study
Agriculture:
- Corporate finance
- Sustainable farm management
- Advances in equine health
- Research project/dissertation
- Specialist study
Bloodstock:
- Equine breeding management
- Negotiations in business
- Advances in equine nutrition
- Advances in equine health
- Advances in training the equine athlete
- Irish Bloodstock Industry study tour (with optional alternative)
- Research project/dissertation
- Specialist study
Assessment:
Assessment methods vary depending on the module and include:
- Exams
- Portfolios
- Group projects
- Individual presentations
- Research project/dissertation
- Practical examinations
Teaching:
The program is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials, practical sessions, and individual supervision for the research project.
Faculty:
The equine team comprises academics with strong industry connections and research expertise. Guest speakers from the industry provide further insights and real-world perspectives.
Unique approaches:
- The program emphasizes practical application and industry-readiness through hands-on learning, including laboratory work, field trips, and industry placements.
- The curriculum is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect the latest developments in the equine sector.
- The program provides a strong network of industry contacts, alumni, and potential employers, facilitating career development and placement opportunities.
Careers:
Graduates of the program are well-positioned to pursue a wide range of careers within the equine industry. Some potential career paths include:
- Equine scientist/researcher
- Stud manager
- Brand manager
- Technical sales representative
- Trainer
- Event manager
- Farm quality control officer
- Equine journalist
- Racing administration
- Bloodstock agent
- Racecourse manager The program's strong emphasis on developing both scientific and business skills opens up a diverse array of opportunities for graduates to contribute to this exciting and ever-evolving industry.
UK International Full-time £9,250 per year £15,300 per year Placement year £1,850 per year £3,060 per year
