Masters Degrees in Equine Studies, United Kingdom

About the course

The Masters Degree in Equine Science at Aberystwyth is a long established, internationally recognised course and will provide you with a research-led, high quality postgraduate teaching and education, allowing you to acquire the advanced subject knowledge and professional skills required to enter the top careers in the equine industry and related professions. Throughout this course, you will be able to use a multidisciplinary approach to explore collaborations with veterinarians, scientists and industrial partners, and you will learn about the latest scientific advances and their application to horses. Through a strong emphasis on student centred study you will encounter many opportunities to develop your skills in original thought, analysis, interpretation and reasoning; as well as encouraging you, where appropriate, to pursue your own specific areas of interest. As such you will develop into a reflective, autonomous researcher. On graduation you will have a wide and expert understanding of animal, in particular equine, biology and its applications.

Why study Equine Science at Aberystwyth University?

The Institute of Biological, Rural and Environmental Sciences (IBERS) at Aberystwyth University is the longest-established provider of equine related higher education in the UK. Our MSc in Equine Science was established in 1978.

IBERS has an internationally renowned reputation for teaching and research in equine science.

With 360 members of staff, 1350 undergraduate students and more than 150 postgraduate students IBERS is the largest Institute within Aberystwyth University. Our excellence in teaching was recognised by outstanding scores in the National Student Satisfaction Survey (2016), with three courses recording 100% student satisfaction and a further 10 scoring above the national average. The latest employability data shows that 92% of IBERS graduates were in work or further study six months after leaving Aberystwyth University. Our joint submission with Bangor University to the most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF) displayed that 78% of our research as world-leading or internationally excellent, and 97% of our research is internationally recognised with 76% judged as world-leading in terms of research impact.

Opportunity to attend conferences with lectures from international animal science experts

Undertake a challenging course taught by enthusiastic, helpful and research-active staff, and further enhanced by contributions from equine experts and academics, many of whom are of international renown

IBERS has an equine teaching yard and the only dedicated and fully licensed equine research yard in UK outside of veterinary colleges

Course structure and content

This course can be studied one year full-time or up to 24 months part-time. When studied full-time, the course is divided into three semesters. During the first two semesters, students complete 120 taught credits (six 20 credit modules), which are delivered primarily through lectures, practicals, workshops and seminars.

During the final semester (June to September), you will complete your master’s dissertation and will arrange your level of contact with your assigned dissertation supervisor.

Core modules:

Equine Nutrition
Equine Reproductive Physiology and Breeding Technology
Animal Breding and genetics
Infection and Immunity
Understanding Equine Action: from Anatomy to Behaviour
Research Methods in the Biosciences
Dissertation

Assessment

Assessment is via a mix of written assignments (case studies, essays, research projects, critical reviews and abstracts), written examinations, seminar presentations, online assignments and scientific posters. Successful submission of the dissertation in the final semester leads to the award of an MSc.

Skills

This course will empower you to:

Develop an in-depth knowledge of the key contemporary topics affecting the Equine Sciences
Enhance your problem-solving and data handling skills
Develop study and research skills
Develop and sustain a self-initiated programme of study
Develop your skills of original thought, analysis, evaluation, interpretation and reasoning
Enhance your communication skills
Work effectively independently and as part of a team

Careers

This course will prepare you for a wide range of careers within the equine industry.

Our graduates often progress to careers in:

Academia
Scientific research and development
Public and private commercial enterprise
Scientific publishing
Equine/ animal nutrition
Equine/ animal welfare
Teaching and training
Equine/ animal breeding
Consultancy and advisory work
Laboratory work
Government agencies and non-government organisations
All throughout the world.
Many of our previous graduates have also progressed to PhDs or veterinary medicine.

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During this course you will approach the issues of equine behaviour and welfare from a variety of different perspectives, including exploring the motivations and physiological control behind behaviour, investigating the range of potential welfare and behavioural concerns within industry and practical ways to assess and tackle them, looking at how different people’s perspectives can influence their approaches to welfare. You will also explore the process of conducting effective research in your own area of interest.

The modules covered in this programme are:
• Principles of Animal Welfare (20 credits)
Provides a bridge for those students who have not previously studied animal welfare. The concepts of animal welfare and the cause of changes in animal welfare status will be covered, as well as relevant UK and EU legislation.

• Attitudes to Animals (20 credits)
Develops an appreciation of current and historical attitudes towards animals and how these impact on animal welfare and on society.

• Physiology of Animal Welfare (20 credits)
Investigates the structure and function of animal brains and the link between brain physiology and behaviour patterns. Explores in depth the role of physiological control systems in the stress response.

• Equine Health & Welfare (20 credits)
Advances knowledge and understanding of the theoretical aspects of horse management, behaviour and welfare. Common health problems affecting horses and the implications of modern management techniques will be explored.

• Analysis of Equine Behaviour (20 credits)
Promotes understanding of equine behaviour, assesses the consequences and methods of assessing and influencing behaviour. This unit also provides students with the opportunity to analyse behaviour.

• Equine Industry & Research (20 credits)
Develops knowledge of the breadth of organisations which contribute to the equine industry. Published studies relating to recent advances within equine management, behaviour and welfare will be discussed and critically evaluated.

• Research Project (60 credits)
Under the guidance of their project supervisor, each student will design and undertake a major research project on an aspect of equine behaviour or animal welfare.

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This Master’s degree course is designed to further develop the equestrian academic skills and knowledge of graduates, focusing on the field of equestrian behaviour, performance and training. Students would be expected to have an existing interest in the key areas of equine behaviour science and horse-rider interactions, specifically their impact on equestrian performance. Potential students may also come from a practitioner background within equestrian training and performance.

M Level units are delivered by tutors qualified at postgraduate level in relevant subjects, many of whom also have a strong British Horse Society (BHS) and performance horse background, most being research active. Full-time study will provide intensive training at postgraduate level for graduates with an equine, sports psychology or biological sciences background, and a two year part-time pathway is also available.

The research project enables students to undertake a detailed experimental study in a chosen area to develop analytical research skills with the support of dedicated supervisors. The student profile is developed throughout the programme utilising a range of advanced academic and research skills with an emphasis on the practical industry applications of research findings. Interpretation and critical evaluation of current research findings will enable the student to further develop links between the equestrian industry and the equine scientific community.

In addition to traditional lectures, units are delivered using extensive laboratory facilities, our BHS Approved ÒWhere to TrainÓ centre, a research population of up to 80 horses, performance analysis hardware and software, conference attendance and demonstrations. Student links are encouraged to external organisations, commercial companies and collaborative research projects. Educational visits are also used to expand equine-specific skills, including visits to training facilities and an international study tour.

Possible Areas of Study
– Equestrian performance and management
– Equine Exercise physiology
– Equine learning Theory
– Sports Psychology
– Sports coaching
– Equine Welfare
– Applied Animal Behaviour Science

Assessment Methods and Research Opportunities
Units are assessed by a mix of coursework, practical assessments, exams, case studies and project work. Emphasis is placed on the development of critical evaluation and research skills with the use of formative assessments throughout the programme of study. Developmental feedback will enable each student to widen the range of their academic skills as they progress through the programme.

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This Master’s degree course is designed to further develop the equestrian academic skills and knowledge of graduates, focusing on the field of equestrian behaviour, performance and training. Students would be expected to have an existing interest in the key areas of equine behaviour science and horse-rider interactions, specifically their impact on equestrian performance. Potential students may also come from a practitioner background within equestrian training and performance.

M Level units are delivered by tutors qualified at postgraduate level in relevant subjects, many of whom also have a strong British Horse Society (BHS) and performance horse background, most being research active. Full-time study will provide intensive training at postgraduate level for graduates with an equine, sports psychology or biological sciences background, and a two year part-time pathway is also available.

The research project enables students to undertake a detailed experimental study in a chosen area to develop analytical research skills with the support of dedicated supervisors. The student profile is developed throughout the programme utilising a range of advanced academic and research skills with an emphasis on the practical industry applications of research findings. Interpretation and critical evaluation of current research findings will enable the student to further develop links between the equestrian industry and the equine scientific community.

In addition to traditional lectures, units are delivered using extensive laboratory facilities, our BHS Approved ‘Where to Train’ centre, a research population of up to 80 horses, performance analysis hardware and software, conference attendance and demonstrations. Student links are encouraged to external organisations, commercial companies and collaborative research projects. Educational visits are also used to expand equine-specific skills, including visits to training facilities and an international study tour.

Possible Areas of Study
– Equestrian performance and management
– Equine Exercise physiology
– Equine learning Theory
– Sports Psychology
– Sports coaching
– Equine Welfare
– Applied Animal Behaviour Science

Assessment Methods and Research Opportunities Units are assessed by a mix of coursework, practical assessments, exams, case studies and project work. Emphasis is placed on the development of critical evaluation and research skills with the use of formative assessments throughout the programme of study. Developmental feedback will enable each student to widen the range of their academic skills as they progress through the programme.

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This is a new addition to the Master’s degree courses that will allow students to study part-time for their MSc course alongside a Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training. In return for studying the Level 5 qualification for free students will be expected to teach in a relevant curriculum area for a minimum of 3 hours a week (additional paid hours may be available).

This Master’s degree course is designed to further develop the equestrian academic skills and knowledge of graduates, focusing on the field of equestrian behaviour, performance and training. Students would be expected to have an existing interest in the key areas of equine behaviour science and horse-rider interactions, specifically their impact on equestrian performance. Potential students may also come from a practitioner background within equestrian training and performance.

M Level units are delivered by tutors qualified at postgraduate level in relevant subjects, many of whom also have a strong British Horse Society (BHS) and performance horse background, most being research active. Full-time study will provide intensive training at postgraduate level for graduates with an equine, sports psychology or biological sciences background, and a two year part-time pathway is also available.

The research project enables students to undertake a detailed experimental study in a chosen area to develop analytical research skills with the support of dedicated supervisors. The student profile is developed throughout the programme utilising a range of advanced academic and research skills with an emphasis on the practical industry applications of research findings. Interpretation and critical evaluation of current research findings will enable the student to further develop links between the equestrian industry and the equine scientific community.

In addition to traditional lectures, units are delivered using extensive laboratory facilities, our BHS Approved ‘Where to Train’ centre, a research population of up to 80 horses, performance analysis hardware and software, conference attendance and demonstrations. Student links are encouraged to external organisations, commercial companies and collaborative research projects. Educational visits are also used to expand equine-specific skills, including visits to training facilities and an international study tour.

Possible Areas of Study
– Equestrian performance and management
– Equine Exercise physiology
– Equine learning Theory
– Sports Psychology
– Sports coaching
– Equine Welfare
– Applied Animal Behaviour Science

Assessment Methods and Research Opportunities Units are assessed by a mix of coursework, practical assessments, exams, case studies and project work. Emphasis is placed on the development of critical evaluation and research skills with the use of formative assessments throughout the programme of study. Developmental feedback will enable each student to widen the range of their academic skills as they progress through the programme.

Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training
This qualification gives students the opportunity to explore underpinning theories, frameworks and research into effective teaching while also gaining practical teaching experience. In return for studying this course for free (MSc fees will still apply) students will be expected to undertake a minimum of 3 hours teaching time each week (additional paid hours may be available). Students will be mentored by a subject specialist teaching mentor and they will be treated as a new member of the teaching team.

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About the course

Our MSc in Animal Science provides students with the research-led, high quality postgraduate teaching, education and professional training required to pursue leading careers in a wide range of Animal Science related fields throughout the world. Throughout this course you will be able to use a multidisciplinary approach to explore collaborations with veterinarians, scientists and the industry, learning about the latest scientific advances in the field of animal science. Through a strong emphasis on student centred study you will encounter many opportunities to develop your skills in original thought, analysis, interpretation and reasoning; as well as encouraging you, where appropriate, to pursue your own specific areas of interest. As such you will develop into a reflective, autonomous researcher. On graduation you will be ideally placed to ensure that the demands of production and welfare are appropriately balanced through the development and implementation of innovative management practices and dissemination
of knowledge and advice to practitioners.

Why study MSc Animal Science at Aberystwyth University?

The Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS) has an internationally renowned reputation for teaching and research in animal sciences.

With 360 members of staff, 1350 undergraduate students and more than 150 postgraduate students IBERS is the largest Institute within Aberystwyth University. Our excellence in teaching was recognised by outstanding scores in the National Student Satisfaction Survey (2016), with three courses recording 100% student satisfaction and a further 10 scoring above the national average. IBERS has previously been awarded the Queen's Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education. The latest employability data shows that 92% of IBERS graduates were in work or further study six months after leaving Aberystwyth University. Our joint submission with Bangor University to the most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF) displayed that 78% of our research as world-leading or internationally excellent, and 97% of our research is internationally recognised with 76% judged as world-leading in terms of research impact.

Opportunity to attend conferences with lectures from international animal science experts.

Undertake a challenging course taught by enthusiastic, helpful and research-active staff, and further enhanced by contributions from experts and academics, many of whom are of international renown.

IBERS has an equine teaching yard and the only dedicated and fully licensed equine research yard in the UK outside of veterinary colleges.

IBERS has 1000 ha of farmland, a 400 cow dairy unit, upland and lowland sheep and beef units and a flock of layer hens.

Course structure and content

This course can be studied one year full-time or up to 24 months part-time. When studied full-time, the course is divided into three semesters. During the first two semesters, students complete 120 taught credits (six 20 credit modules), which are delivered primarily through lectures, practicals, field trips, workshops, and seminars.

During the final semester (June to September), you will complete your master’s dissertation and will arrange your level of contact with your assigned dissertation supervisor.

Core modules:

Animal Breeding and Genetics
Infection and Immunity
Research Methods in the Biosciences
Dissertation

Optional modules:

Equine Nutrition or Livestock Nutrition
Equine Reproductive Physiology and Breeding Technology
Grassland Science
Livestock Production Science
Understanding Equine Action: from Anatomy to Behaviour

Assessment

Depending on the modules chosen, assessment is via a mix of written assignments (essays, reports, case studies, research projects, research critiques, research proposals, critical reviews, and abstracts), written examinations, seminar presentations, and online assignments.

Successful submission of the dissertation in the final semester leads to the award of an MSc.

Skills

This course will empower you to:

Advance your specialised knowledge in Animal Science
Enhance your problem-solving and data handling skills
Develop study and research skills
Develop and sustain a self-initiated programme of study
Develop your skills of original thought, analysis, evaluation, interpretation and reasoning
Enhance your communication skills
Work effectively independently and as part of a team

Careers

Our Animal Science students often progress to careers in:

Academia
Scientific research and development
Public and private commercial enterprise
Scientific publishing
Animal nutrition
Animal welfare
Teaching and training
Animal breeding
Consultancy and advisory work
Laboratory work
Government agencies and non-government organisations
All throughout the world.


Many of our previous graduates have also progressed to PhDs or veterinary medicine.

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This new and unique Thoroughbred Horseracing Industries MBA is the only masters-level qualification in the world to be delivered through an exclusive partnership with Britain’s Horserace Betting Levy Board and the British Horseracing Authority. Although UK based, our partners will provide access to the Thoroughbred Horseracing Industry across the globe. In addition, they will provide a number of scholarships for eligible students. The programme combines the Management School’s expertise in sports industry management, with the specialist equine knowledge of the University’s School of Veterinary Science.

As an MBA programme it has the real business focus that management positions in modern horseracing demand. This is based on links with key sectors of the industry—from owners, trainers, leading racecourses and the media, to the gambling industry. If you’re looking to develop your skills as an effective manager and potential leader in the global horseracing industry, this is the MBA for you. The core elements of the programme – leadership, strategy, managing the environment, innovation, managing financial resources – are delivered in concentrated blocks to encourage a deeper understanding, with a strong emphasis on interactive teaching and learning.

The specialist modules apply business concepts to modern horseracing. You’ll gain a critical awareness of issues in the management of racecourses and training establishments, marketing, advertising, sponsorship, bloodstock management and relevant veterinary issues. Crucially, you’ll receive vocational training for and invaluable placements within the industry.

MBA survey buttonYou can also benefit from the guest speakers and practical learning opportunities including visits to racecourses, studs, training facilities, media companies and companies in the gambling industry. The broader skills you’ll acquire include analysis, problem solving, creativity and decision-making. The Becoming a Horseracing Industries Executive module will also serve to strengthen and hone your interpersonal, communication and leadership abilities – all of which will prepare you for success within the industry.

Theory, we believe, has most value when it can be explored in practice, which is why live case studies and simulations are central to teaching and learning. You’ll also have a range of opportunities to work on real projects for sponsoring organisations through work based projects and placements provided by our industry partners.‌

Key Facts

REF 2014
27th in the UK for 4* and 3* (world leading and internationally excellent), 100% impact and 88% environment at 4* and 3*.

Why University of Liverpool Management School?

'Learning to make a difference'

AACSB-Accredited, the University of Liverpool Management School is in the top 5% of business schools worldwide. Regarded as one of the most rigorous assessments, many top global recruiters will only consider candidates from AACSB-Accredited schools – a clear signal that our programmes respond to the needs of business and meet specific standards of excellence.

The University of Liverpool Management School works with today's leaders in business and management to prepare its students to be the leaders of the future. The school's mission is 'Learning to make a difference' and there is a fundamental belief that the purpose of the School's research and teaching is to develop students who are not only good managers, but individuals who are truly committed to making a difference. We hope that our students will use the knowledge and skills they gain here in their future roles to help solve some of the most endemic problems individuals, enterprises and communities face.

Career prospects

The aim of this programme is to jointly prepare tomorrow’s business leaders with unique exposure to the rapidly evolving field of Big Data and the opportunities, challenges and developments associated with running or expanding digital business enterprises.

Careers Support

From the moment you start your MSc you will have access to a specialist careers team which includes a professionally qualified MSc Careers Adviser and a dedicated International Employer Engagement Officer.

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Programme description

This programme involves an in-depth scientific approach to managing health and welfare, reproduction, behaviour, nutrition and exercise for horses. You will also learn how to practically apply a scientific approach to benefit horse health, welfare and performance.

Our online programme is the first and only Equine Science programme to be hosted within an international centre of veterinary excellence. It provides students with detailed knowledge and understanding of equine science and its applications and is excellent preparation for enhancing your equine career or future independent research such as a a PhD.

Online learning

Our online learning technology is fully interactive, award-winning and enables you to communicate with our highly qualified teaching staff from the comfort of your own home or workplace.

Our online students not only have access to Edinburgh’s excellent resources, but also become part of a supportive online community, bringing together students and tutors from around the world.

Programme structure

The taught part of the programme consists of a series of courses, while the final year is devoted to a dissertation.

Certificate and Diploma courses:

• Research Methods in Equine Science
• Equine Digestion and Nutrition
• Equine Behaviour and Welfare
• Equine Orthopaedics
• Equine Reproduction
• Equitation Science
• Equine Exercise Physiology

Your final year dissertation of a maximum of 9,000 words will allow you to analyse and present relevant research data that you have collected yourself. Alternatively, you can undertake desk study to explore and develop your own area of interest.

Read more about how the programme is structured:

• Programme structure

Programme duration

The full MSc Equine Science programme can be completed within two years if students wish to study several courses at any one time, so all taught courses are completed in one year and the second year is devoted to a dissertation project.

Alternatively students can take up to 6 years to complete the full MSc programme and there is also the option to graduate with either an Equine Science postgraduate certificate or diploma.

Postgraduate Professional Development

Postgraduate Professional Development (PPD) is aimed at working professionals who want to advance their knowledge through a postgraduate-level course(s), without the time or financial commitment of a full Masters, Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate.

You may take a maximum of 50 credits worth of courses over two years through our PPD scheme. These lead to a University of Edinburgh postgraduate award of academic credit. Alternatively, after one year of taking courses you can choose to transfer your credits and continue on to studying towards a higher award on a Masters, Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate programme. Although PPD courses have various start dates throughout a year you may only start a Masters, Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate programme in the month of September. Any time spent studying PPD will be deducted from the amount of time you will have left to complete a Masters, Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate programme.

• More information on PPD

Career opportunities

Graduates from this research-rich, taught MSc will be prepared for employment in research establishments, such as universities and research institutions; industry, such as feed companies, stud farms, pharmaceuticals and consultancy firms; government organisations, such as ADAS and DEFRA; and welfare organisations such as the RSPCA, WSPA and WHW.

• Watch short film interviews with recent graduates from the programme

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£1,000 postgraduate bursary available. Application deadline 1 July 2015.

This postgraduate course provides a thorough understanding of Equine Health, Performance and Welfare within the context of the human use of horses. You will benefit from first-class facilities and staff expertise in equine behaviour, ethics, nutrition, competition performance, animal biology and veterinary sciences. We are one of the few universities in the UK to offer taught multi-disciplinary modules that develop the scientific expertise and comprehensive understanding that potential employers are looking for.

Why study Equine Health and Welfare at NTU?

• These are unique courses in the UK focusing on Equine Health and Welfare at postgraduate level.
• Benefit from major investment in facilities – BHS (British Horse Society) approved Equestrian Centre, international size indoor and outdoor riding arenas, research arena, horse walker, round pen and crew yards, group housing pens, stabling for up to 60 horses, livery, solarium, weighbridge, treatment stocks, performance analysis room, laboratory facilities and a modern Veterinary Nursing Unit.
• Modules are delivered by academics qualified to PhD level, who are research active in their area of expertise. Their international research links provide opportunities and scope for a wide range of research projects in the field of Equine Health and Welfare.
• Teaching is supplemented by practical sessions and lectures from some of the most experienced consultants in the country.

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The MSc Equine Science programme provides you with the opportunity to develop and further explore a range of applied subjects within the field of equestrian science, building on your prior learning and experience within the industry.

The programme contains core modules within a broad range of subjects; each with a strong applied context enabling you to appreciate and evaluate the interaction of science within practice.

Students have opportunities to use different types of technology, for example gait analysis and electromyography equipment, that they can use for data measurement and collection depending on the modules selected or the line of investigation taken in their thesis.

Your choice of modules will help you to increase your knowledge and understanding of how equine science can maximise performance, extend career length or aid in selection of the performance horse, with a core goal of optimising the horse’s welfare.

Both the postgraduate dissertation module and the optional postgraduate independent study module provides you with the opportunity to examine in greater level of critical detail an area of equine science which you have a motivated interest in and which is potentially linked to future career development.

Students are encouraged to attend conferences, present their research and become a member of the wider academic community, including at our own annual Hartpury-Alltech Student Conference.

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The Research Masters (ResM) is a Masters level degree awarded by Plymouth University through the Duchy College node - a research node of Plymouth University’s Centre for Agriculture and Rural Sustainability (CARS).

All ResM students are supervised by college staff based in Cornwall on the Stoke Climsland or Newquay campuses and co-supervised by Plymouth University staff. The ResM culminates in the examination of a thesis based on a period of extended research, preceded by two taught modules that equip the student for research.

The ResM programme at Duchy is tailored to individual needs and commonly involves working with an industry partner. There are full-time and part-time routes.

Full and partial fees bursaries may be available, please contract Dr Peter McGregor for more information and eligibility criteria.

Indicative projects for Equitation Science:
• Welfare of the therapy horse
• Welfare and management of moorland ponies
• Effectiveness of physiotherapy interventions in the equine
• Horse Coat Colour and BEF evaluations

Student case study: “I’m enjoying having the time to learn and feel as though this programme was written specifically for me!” (Robyn Petrie-Richie, ResM Equitation Science)

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Equestrian related activities are increasingly contributing large amounts to the UK's rural and national economy. A horse's worth is associated with its performance and how we can measure and affect those factors is increasingly important. This programme provides an insight into this exciting and cutting edge area.

UWE Hartpury has excellent facilities both to deliver and support study in this area, and to enable you to gain a wealth of wider experiences to support your knowledge and skills. Postgraduate study in Equine Science at Hartpury can be the start of many exciting opportunities. The programme consists of taught modules delivered via weekend study blocks to facilitate study alongside your career.

As a postgraduate student of Equine Science, you will have a personal academic tutor to help support you to achieve your individual goals and interests. Study skills module weekends are also held during the induction period and combine with formative assessment opportunities to help support your academic development. This is combined with staff who are engaged with advancing equine science on the international stage yet remain accessible and committed to promoting your achievement. Students are encouraged throughout their programme to attend conferences, present their research and become a member of the wider academic community including at our own annual Alltech-Hartpury Equine Performance conference.

The friendly, supportive and personal atmosphere here at Hartpury combines with the flexible modular programme to offer a unique, inspirational, engaging and enjoyable postgraduate experience.

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Recognition of the importance of equine welfare has never been higher, both with industry lead bodies and the general public. Equine welfare underpins safe management of the horse and facilitates a longer and more successful career in every area of their use. To achieve a high standard of welfare understanding the principles of the study of equine behaviour is essential. With a large number of horses on site, and many links with industry stakeholders we believe that UWE Hartpury is well placed to support postgraduate level study in this fundamental area. At postgraduate level it is expected that you can engage and inform with developments and innovations in this fast moving subject area. This programme develops an applied understanding of the principles of equine behaviour and welfare, and supports the students in gaining and applying the research techniques necessary to evaluate and contribute to current understanding.

Postgraduate study in Equine Science at Hartpury can be the start of many exciting opportunities. The programme consists of taught modules delivered via weekend study blocks to facilitate study alongside your career. As a postgraduate student of Equine Science, you will have a personal academic tutor to help support you to achieve your individual goals and interests. Study skills module weekends are also held during the induction period and combine with formative assessment opportunities to help support your academic development. This is combined with staff who are engaged with advancing equine science on the international stage yet remain accessible and committed to promoting your achievement. Students are encouraged throughout their programme to attend conferences, present their research and become a member of the wider academic community including at our own annual Alltech-Hartpury Equine Performance conference.

The friendly, supportive and personal atmosphere here at Hartpury combines with the flexible modular programme to offer a unique, inspirational, engaging and enjoyable postgraduate experience.

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£1,000 postgraduate bursary available. Application deadline 1 July 2015.

This postgraduate course provides a thorough understanding of Equine Health, Performance and Welfare within the context of the human use of horses. You will benefit from first-class facilities and staff expertise in equine behaviour, ethics, nutrition, competition performance, animal biology and veterinary sciences. We are one of the few universities in the UK to offer taught multi-disciplinary modules that develop the scientific expertise and comprehensive understanding that potential employers are looking for.

Why study Equine Health and Welfare at NTU?

• These are unique courses in the UK focusing on Equine Health and Welfare at postgraduate level.
• Benefit from major investment in facilities – BHS (British Horse Society) approved Equestrian Centre, international size indoor and outdoor riding arenas, research arena, horse walker, round pen and crew yards, group housing pens, stabling for up to 60 horses, livery, solarium, weighbridge, treatment stocks, performance analysis room, laboratory facilities and a modern Veterinary Nursing Unit.
• Modules are delivered by academics qualified to PhD level, who are research active in their area of expertise. Their international research links provide opportunities and scope for a wide range of research projects in the field of Equine Health and Welfare.
• Teaching is supplemented by practical sessions and lectures from some of the most experienced consultants in the country.

MRes projects

Students applying for this MRes course can either choose to study a relevant project of their choice, or apply to undertake one of the specific research projects listed below:

• An investigation of rider position upon the ridden horse in equestrian cross country. Lauren Birkbeck.
• Determining the environmental conditions experienced by sport horses during international transportation. Cassie White.
• Visual behaviour in equestrian sport. Dr Carol Hall.
• Thermal biology of equine skin. Dr Gareth Starbuck and Dr Kelly Yarnell.
• Picture recognition in the horse. Dr Carol Hall.

MRes applicants also have the opportunity to apply for a competitive £1000 bursary towards course tuition fees. In addition, all MRes students can apply for up to a maximum of £1000 to cover consumables costs, which will need to be discussed and agreed with the supervisor, and approved by School Management.

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The Masters in Research Equestrian Performance programme provides the opportunity to put into practice research techniques from a range of new and rapidly moving areas depending on your chosen field of study. We will support you with the opportunities and expertise that Hartpury has to offer as an educational and world class competition establishment. Our institution is increasing its research profile, including our active Research Centre for Performance in Equestrian Sports, while the new Rider Performance Centre opens up a world of opportunity. Students are encouraged to become immersed in the research ethos through attendance at conferences, presentation of their own research and by becoming a member of the wider academic community, including at our own annual Hartpury-Alltech Student Conference.

The programme includes an extended research project alongside a research process module and subject specific modules, chosen by you, to complement your chosen specialist research topic. These modules have included Equine Therapy and Rehabilitation, Applied Equine Exercise Physiology, Equine Behaviour and Welfare and Rider Performance.

The aim of the extended research project is that you will make a valuable contribution of knowledge to the field of equestrian performance. Through the requirements of the programme, you will be expected to critically evaluate current research, analyse primary data and report your findings. These skills will allow you to understand and apply current scientific thinking, develop new ideas, and evaluate current processes and practices.

The taught components of the Masters in Research Equestrian Performance are delivered via weekend study blocks to facilitate study alongside your career or personal commitments.

Each taught module will be delivered over either one or two weekends depending on the credit weighting and delivery methods for the module, while the extended research project is undertaken across the academic year through independent study supported by an allocated supervisory team.

The Masters in Research Equestrian Performance can be completed full-time in one year. The option for part-time study is available and study plans from two to three years may be negotiated depending on personal circumstances and career goals.

Students enrolled on the MSc in Research are able to apply for funding to support their research project (currently a maximum of £1000).

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