Hartpury University

International student Arash Torkian studied MSc Strength and Conditioning at Hartpury University.

“My interest in completing a postgraduate sports course stemmed from my experience in taekwondo from a young age, my bachelor’s degree in physical education, and my long-term goal of becoming a coach. Based solely on the website, I chose Hartpury University for its excellent facilities and exceptional sports equipment. There was a lot to adapt to as the education system in the UK is very different to the system in Iran, but this has helped me to develop many skills. I can now utilise relevant articles for research and have strong essay writing skills, areas in which I previously lacked experience. The academic staff and support teams at Hartpury are excellent, and the support I’ve received here is unlike any I’ve received anywhere else.”

With a well-established passion for animals and an ambition to work in the veterinary sector, Chloe completed a BSc (Hons) Bioveterinary Science degree, followed by an MSc in Animal Welfare, Policy and Legislation. She now works as a compliance Analyst at Beyond Compliance Ltd.

“Whatever industry you’re interested in, whether it’s veterinary, animal, sport, or agriculture – all which Hartpury are nationally renowned in - you’ll find the connections and inspiration you need. Staff know exactly where to point you, should you have any questions. I’ve established critical thinking, researching and report writing skills, all of which are transferable, and I use regularly at work day-to-day.

Hartpury broadened my horizons. I was originally fixated on becoming a vet, but my master’s course catered for my interest in law, blended with my passion for animals. It was great learning how the legal system works and then applying it to the animal sector – a direction I’d love to take my career in. Having the clinical element, and then being able to see how things unfold in practice at the farms, equine and canine therapy centre on campus was fantastic.”

Dominika Jagoda studied MSc Applied Animal Behaviour and Welfare at Hartpury and now works for the RSPCA’s Companion Animal Department as a Policy and Scientific Officer.

Dominika’s Hartpury experience

“I decided to study for my masters at Hartpury as I had previously attended an open day so I knew the campus and institution. The fact that Hartpury offered the specific course I wanted, coupled with the ease of travelling in once a week for my academic sessions, made it the best choice. The exposure to guest lectures, such as the one from the RSPCA, played a crucial role in shaping my career path. Learning about the variety of roles within the organization during that lecture helped me understand which roles were available. The hands-on modules, particularly the practical sessions on Hartpury’s Home farm, added a dynamic aspect to my learning and provided a refreshing change.”

Developing Industry Connections

“The transition from considering a career as a vet, to finding a path that incorporated my knowledge and skills in animal welfare, was an easy one. I decided I wanted to work for an animal welfare organisation, and following the RSPCA guest lecture, I knew that that was the organisation for me. I hadn’t long submitted my dissertation when I saw the role of Policy and Scientific Officer at the RSPCA and knew I had to go for it. Now I'm in post, I deal with animal welfare enquiries from the general public, work on the implementation of new policies, and assist with a range of other projects many of which require collaboration with other known welfare charities.”

George studied a MRes in Performance Analysis at Hartpury. He worked directly with Gloucester Rugby coaches and players as part of their sports analysis team, whilst studying towards his qualification in sports analysis.⠀
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"The provision for sports analysis at Hartpury is massive. They’re at the cutting edge of performance sport, producing world-class athletes in different disciplines. It’s a great environment to learn in, you’re surrounded by opportunities to gain the applied experience that employers are looking for.
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Right from day one, I’ve been able to experience life as a sports analyst. The support from Hartpury and Gloucester Rugby has been amazing – my skills have improved massively in a short space of time.⠀
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The work that I’m doing at Gloucester isn’t just for my academic benefit. The coaches will use it to help the team in the future – so I’ll see it have a real-world impact. My masters degree is giving me the applied skills that employers are looking for."

Greg studied MSc Sports Coaching at Hartpury and is now an Academy Coach at Welsh Rowing. He looks after new rowers that have been identified and tested through the GB Rowing Start programme.

"While looking after the new rowers, I get to work on and developing them to move from the academy group to the development group. The aim is for them to then progress into the senior squad that will attend GB trials. He works in a high performance Sport Wales team with a physio, nutritionist, weightlifting coach and sports science staff all working together to produce top level GB Rowing athletes.

I was taken on as a rowing intern at Hartpury, which is a GB Rowing Start centre, while I was doing my full-time Masters in Coaching Science. I was working with Tom Pattichis (Hartpury rowing programme manager) as a mentor, and the internship gave me the opportunity to coach rowers of all abilities, learning how to meet and solve different challenges in their development with the pressure of ensuring the continued success of the Hartpury rowing programme.

I don’t think I would have got my role with Welsh Rowing had I not been able to show the theoretical skills I gained from my Masters as well as the practical experience I had from my coaching internship at Hartpury."

Iona studied a BSc in Equine Science followed by an MSc in Applied Equine Science. Upon completion of her master's degree, she completed a year-long internship with Kentucky Equine Research in America, leading her to her current role as a Technical Nutrition Coordinator with Saracen Horse Feeds.

"I loved that Hartpury offered various modules in its courses, as I got to explore different future career routes. The combination of lectures, seminars, practical sessions and lab work, most in small classes, made them personal and provided more 1-1 time between students and lecturers. Support is readily available whenever you need it, particularly from tutors and the careers centre, who supported me with my CV and cover letters.

I value that you're not just in a traditional classroom setting. We had guest lectures, spent time in the yard, performed body condition scoring with the horses and dissections of the gastrointestinal tract. The nutrition modules equipped me well for my career. During my Master’s, I engaged in numerous practical, research-based assignments and delivered presentations, which provided invaluable real-world experience.

There are countless ways for students to get involved outside of lectures and assignments, but you must seek them out. Put yourself out there, take advantage of and seize these opportunities. They are what will help you stand out later."

Jayne moved from Canada to pursue her dream of coaching at Hartpury University, for the prospect of playing Premiership Women’s Rugby, and to study a Master’s in Sports Coaching. Alongside her studies, Jayne coaches the Women’s Rugby 2’s squad and students at Wycliffe College.

“The opportunities I’ve pursued at Hartpury have significantly improved my coaching confidence and abilities. High-level coaches and teachers have helped me to engage in conversations and progress massively as a coach. It’s incredible that I can apply the valuable theory and guidance I’ve acquired from them into the training I provide — I get to see the fruits of my learning in real-time.

My lecturers are very receptive, making themselves accessible for any additional support I need wherever possible. The recording facilities at Hartpury are also incredibly beneficial. Getting to watch myself coach allows me to conduct worthwhile performance analysis and actively reflect on how I’m coaching.

Coming to Hartpury from Canada and not knowing anyone was definitely a challenge. However, the community at Hartpury is so welcoming, making it very easy to find your place. There are so many opportunities and connections you’ll create here which will guide you for life. If you’re considering Hartpury, just go for it. Dive in headfirst like I did, and you’ll be fine."

After completing an Extended Diploma in Sport (Football) at Hartpury College, Stephen progressed to study BSc (Hons) Sports Business Management and MSc Sports Management at Hartpury University, alongside working as a store manager at Adidas. He aspires to play football professionally and pursue a leadership role within the sport industry.

"Playing for the Right to Dream Academy in Ghana developed my passion for playing professionally. If this doesn't work out, my studies at Hartpury have provided me with all the knowledge and skills to work in leadership, which I already apply in my side job and can apply inside and outside of football. When you come to Hartpury, it's not just about football. It's about stepping into a family where people accept you, regardless of your differences. Staff ensure that you achieve while helping make your dreams come true."

After completing undergraduate and master’s degrees at Hartpury, Sunny has moved into a successful career working with animals, advancing into the role of General Manager at Bristol Aquarium.

"Hartpury has everything you need on site. My degree gave me an in-depth understanding of animal behaviour and interactions.

I loved the practical sessions and volunteering with lambing at the farm. The field trip to South Africa was a once-in a-lifetime experience. We saw rhinos and giraffes, learnt about different behaviour and conservation techniques, and discussed real-life issues.

The most amazing part of my job is seeing that spark of joy in young people, often discovering marine life for the first time. I’ve always loved animals and I’m driven to make a difference. If I can inspire the next generation of conservationists, I’m doing my job right."

In pursuit of his dream as a Performance Analyst within elite football, Tom is currently undertaking a Studentship at Hartpury University, gaining an MSc in Applied Performance Analysis in Sport whilst working as a Performance Analyst for the Hartpury University FC.

“Working in elite sports and football and in an environment where high performance is expected, all while getting a Master's qualification, allows me to strive in the areas I'm most passionate about.

After my undergraduate degree in Physical Education and Coaching, and my placement with Cheltenham Town FC working in performance analysis, I decided that performance analysis is what I wanted to do as a long-term career. Seeing Hartpury, it was clear to me that the facilities are second to none. I was immediately sold after speaking to the programme leader and working with Hartpury University FC. I haven't looked back.

Hartpury truly has everything you could ask for and more. The software I use for performance analysis is typically used only by top clubs. Doing a studentship whilst studying at Hartpury is a brilliant prospect for anyone looking to get into football, performance analysis, or any other area of sport. My advice to anyone considering this pathway would be whatever you get the opportunity to do, do it. Be a sponge and try as many things as possible; it will all be worthwhile."