Equine Science MRes

Program Overview

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The MRes Equine Science program at Aberystwyth University offers a unique 12-month dissertation project, equipping students with advanced research skills in equine science. Modules cover reproduction, nutrition, genetics, and immunology, preparing graduates for careers in research, development, or the equine industry. Graduates have high employability rates and often progress to PhDs or Veterinary Medicine. With its renowned equine research yard and teaching excellence, Aberystwyth University is a top choice for equine science education.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

The MRes Equine Science degree provides an opportunity to conduct research in a specific area of equine science while studying taught elements related to reproduction, anatomy, immunology, nutrition, and genetics of the horse. This program aims to equip students with a high level of research training, making it an ideal stepping-stone for those considering a PhD in equine science or related fields, as well as careers in research and development. Additional funding opportunities may be available.

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Modules (September start - 2024):

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Year 1:

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Core:

• Research Methods in the Biosciences (BRM6420): 20 credit value
• MRes Dissertation (A) (BRM6060): 60 credit value
• MRes Dissertation (B) (BRM6160): 60 credit value

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Options:

• Animal Breeding and Genetics (BRM5820): 20 credit value
• Equine Nutrition (BRM5320): 20 credit value
• Equine Reproductive Physiology and Breeding Technology (BRM5220): 20 credit value
• Infection and Immunity (BRM1620): 20 credit value
• Understanding Equine Action: from Anatomy to Behaviour (BRM6220): 20 credit value

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Assessment:

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Taught Modules:

• Scientific writing assignments (reports, critical reviews, essays, journalistic articles)
• Presentations
• Contribution to group discussions in seminars
• Online assignments

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MRes Dissertation:

• Successful submission of the research project dissertation leads to the award of an MRes.

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• The program emphasizes a 12-month dissertation project (Semesters 1-3; 120 of 180 credits).
• Students work under the supervision of active researchers with expertise in the field.
• Collaborative development of an equine science research project in areas such as reproduction, parasitology, nutrition, cognition, behavior, anatomy, or exercise physiology.
• Mentorship in hypothesis-driven experimental design, analytical techniques, statistical analysis, and interpretation of results.
• Preparation for successful oral presentations.
• Guidance on efficient communication of research results during dissertation write-up.
• Taught modules are delivered in Semesters 1 and 2, with up to 10 hours per week dedicated to these modules.
• The remaining time in Semesters 1 and 2, and the entirety of Semester 3, is dedicated to conducting the research project.
• Research projects may involve laboratory, field, or computer-based research, supported by regular meetings with the designated supervisor.
• Research projects can be set by IBERS staff or proposed by the applicant (contact the course coordinator for details).

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Faculty:

• Active researchers with expertise in the field.

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Unique Approaches:

• The 12-month dissertation project is a unique feature of this program, setting it apart from other Masters level Equine Science courses in the UK.

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Careers:

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Potential Career Paths:

• Scientific research
• Scientific publishing
• Equine/Animal Nutrition
• Equine/Animal Welfare
• Teaching
• Equine/Animal breeding
• Consultancy
• Laboratory work

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Opportunities:

• Graduates often progress to careers in the equine industry to improve horse health and welfare or to work in the research and development sector of the equine industry.
• Graduates are also well-prepared for careers in the wider veterinary/animal/biological science fields.

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Outcomes:

• Many graduates have progressed to PhDs or Veterinary Medicine.

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Other:

• The equine science sector has an estimated turnover of £250 million pounds and supports 1.6 million jobs worldwide.
• Postgraduate qualifications in this sector greatly enhance employability.
• IBERS is one of the largest research and teaching institutes within the UK, with 360 members of staff, 1350 undergraduate students, and more than 150 postgraduate students.
• IBERS has its own equine teaching yard, the only dedicated and fully licensed equine research yard in the UK outside of veterinary college.
• Aberystwyth University is the longest-established provider of equine related higher education in the UK, with an internationally renowned reputation for teaching and research in equine science.
• The MSc in Equine Science was established in 1978.
• IBERS has won the national BBSRC Excellence with Impact Award in 2011.
• Aberystwyth University has been awarded the Gold Award in the recent Teaching Excellence Framework (Teaching Excellence Framework, 2018).
• Employability data from the Recent Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education (DLHE, 2017) shows that 97% of IBERS graduates were in work or further study six months after leaving Aberystwyth University.