Equine Science and Business with Foundation Year

Equine science and business is a degree designed for those who want to understand the horse both as a biological system and as a commercial opportunity. Equine science investigates the physiology, genetics, nutrition, reproduction, and health of horses, giving you a rigorous biological foundation for working in yards, studs, veterinary practices, and research institutions. Business management provides the strategic, financial, and operational skills needed to run equine enterprises and to work professionally in the commercial dimensions of the equestrian industry, which encompasses racing, breeding, sport, leisure, and equine services.

At the Royal Agricultural University, this four-year full-time programme begins with a foundation year that provides the academic grounding needed to enter degree-level study with confidence, making it well suited to those coming from practical equestrian backgrounds as well as those from more traditional academic routes. The degree blends equine science and business management principles relevant to the full breadth of the equestrian sector, from elite sport to leisure riding to commercial breeding operations. You will study equine anatomy and physiology, animal nutrition, health and welfare, stable management, and reproduction science alongside modules in marketing, finance, enterprise management, and rural business.

The programme offers an option to study some livestock science alongside equine science and business, allowing those with a broader interest in animal science to take a more holistic approach.

The Royal Agricultural University's rural setting and its deep connections to the land-based industries give the programme a practical character that is strongly connected to the realities of professional practice.

Graduates go on to careers in yard and stud management, equestrian business consultancy, racing administration, equine nutrition and health product companies, teaching, and rural enterprise. Some go on to establish their own equestrian businesses. Postgraduate study in equine science, animal science, or rural business management is available for those seeking specialist expertise.