Equine and Veterinary Bioscience

Equine and veterinary bioscience is a highly specialist discipline focused on the biology, health, and welfare of horses and other animals, combining the scientific rigour of veterinary bioscience with a particular depth of expertise in equine subjects. Horses occupy a unique position in society, as companions, athletes, and working animals, and their care demands both detailed knowledge of equine physiology, nutrition, reproduction, and behaviour and an understanding of the diseases and conditions that affect them. Veterinary bioscience provides the underpinning science, including anatomy, microbiology, immunology, and pathology, that supports clinical veterinary work and animal health research.

At Aberystwyth, which describes this as the only degree of its kind in the UK, this four-year full-time programme draws on the university's longstanding strength in equine studies, its research expertise in animal disease, nutrition, reproduction, and behaviour, and its collaborative links with practising veterinary surgeons at the Wales Veterinary Science Centre. The title states the degree involves studying abroad, giving you an international dimension to your training. You will develop skills and knowledge relating to the health and welfare of horses and a range of other animal species, combining scientific study with practical engagement in equine and veterinary contexts.

Graduates go on to careers in equine veterinary practice support, equine science, stud and stable management, the horse racing and sport industries, animal health research, and a wide range of roles in the equine and veterinary sectors. The combination of bioscience depth and equine specialism is genuinely rare and is valued by employers who need graduates with both scientific credibility and sector-specific knowledge. Many graduates also continue to postgraduate study in veterinary science, animal health, or equine science, building on the distinctive foundation this degree provides.