Equine Science

Equine science is the rigorous study of the horse as a biological, physiological and athletic system. It applies the principles of anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, nutrition and biomechanics to understanding how the horse's body works, how it responds to training and exercise, and how its health and performance can be optimised and protected. The field sits at the intersection of sport science, veterinary science and animal management, and it is particularly relevant in the racing, breeding, equestrian sport and horse welfare sectors.

At Hartpury University, this four-year full-time programme, which includes a foundation year, gives you access to an exceptional learning environment. The foundation year provides thorough scientific and academic preparation before you enter the main degree, and is well suited to students who have the motivation and interest in the subject but benefit from additional grounding before degree-level study. Once in the main degree you will study the horse's physiological systems, the science of exercise and how training regimes affect the equine body, nutrition, health management and the application of scientific measurement and analysis to equine performance.

Hartpury's campus includes an Equine Therapy Centre, industry-standard science laboratories and 230 horses, giving you direct, practical engagement with equine subjects throughout your studies. A sandwich year placement and a work placement are built into the programme, giving you substantial professional experience in the equine industry and ensuring your scientific training is grounded in real-world practice.

You will develop strong practical and laboratory skills alongside your theoretical knowledge, and you will learn to apply evidence-based thinking to questions of equine health, welfare and performance.

Graduates move into careers in equine performance management, racehorse training, equine therapy and rehabilitation, breeding and stud management, equine nutrition, horse welfare, veterinary support, and research. Postgraduate study in equine science, animal science or veterinary medicine is also a pathway for those who want to develop deeper scientific expertise.