Equine Science
Combine your love of horses with a curiosity for science as you explore the science behind equine health, performance and behaviour.
It's possible to study this course part-time. You'll take the same modules as BSc/BA (Hons) students, but sometimes in a different order or in different years.
As a part-time student you'll typically study for twice as long as full-time students; for example if the BSc/BA (Hons) course takes three years, you can expect to study over six years, though for some courses the part-time length may differ.
UK students have the option to study Year 1 of this course, either for one year full-time or two years part-time, to achieve a CertHE. You can also choose to combine a foundation year with the CertHE. Contact us to discuss what you can do, or choose your preferred option when you apply.
in the East of England for undergraduates employed as managers, directors or senior officials.
Source: GOS 2025
This dynamic and applied degree integrates core areas of biology, physiology, behaviour and nutrition with specialist study in reproduction, health and welfare, ensuring you develop the scientific expertise and practical skills required in the modern equine sector.
Through real-world case studies, you’ll apply scientific principles to practical scenarios, preparing you for decision-making roles in the industry. You’ll delve into ethics, sustainability and innovation in the equine sector, developing the skills to tackle real challenges and lead meaningful change. With a focus on critical thinking and independent research, you'll graduate ready for an exciting career in equine science and beyond.
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Find out more about studying Equine Science at ARU in this short video.
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Gain hands-on experience in our specialist laboratories and through practical work with horses on our dedicated equine campus
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Bring the world of work to life with employer-informed projects and Live Briefs, developing solutions to real industry challenges
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Build professional networks through our strong industry partnerships, supported by visiting speakers and live case studies
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Benefit from ARU Writtle Academy riders and horses on site, observing individualised training and performance analysis across disciplines
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Bring your own horse to university with our DIY livery packages and take advantage of opportunities such as elite coaching through our Equine Academy
Study at an award-winning university
We were named Times Higher Education University of the Year 2023. We've also been awarded a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework – a reflection of the outstanding education we offer our students.
Careers
This degree has given me the chance to develop my passion into a meaningful career and given me many opportunities I wouldn’t have had without their amazing connections in industry.
Upon graduation, you’ll be well-prepared for a career in equine nutrition, welfare, rehabilitation, performance analysis or research, and you’ll be highly valued by employers looking for graduates who can apply critical thinking, data analysis and problem-solving to real-world challenges.
It also opens pathways into postgraduate study or scientific roles beyond the equine sector, such as animal science or veterinary support.
Teaching and modules
During this course you’ll develop a strong, evidence-based understanding of equine science, management and industry practices.
In Year 1, you'll build a solid foundation in core scientific areas such as anatomy, physiology, nutrition, behaviour and the equine industry's structure and ethics. Years 2 and 3, you’ll deepen your practical and scientific skills through modules on health, husbandry, training, breeding, welfare, diagnostics and performance. You'll gain hands-on experience in scientific techniques and engage with current research, sustainable practices and innovative technologies. Throughout the course, you’ll refine your analytical and communication skills, culminating in an independent research project in your final year.
Modules are subject to change and availability, and may vary by location. If you have the choice of optional modules, these are indicated with a *.
- Into ARU
- Fundamentals of the Equine Industry (30 credits)
- Foundations of Equine Science (30 credits)
- Scientific Approaches to Equine Husbandry and Welfare (30 credits)
- Structure and Functional Assessment (30 credits)
- Equine Behaviour Science (15 credits)
- Exercise Physiology and Nutrition (15 credits)
- Ruskin Module (15 credits)
- Research Methods (15 credits)
- Equine Clinical Bioveterinary Science (15 credits)
- Equine Reproduction and Genetics (15 credits)
- Horse & Rider Development (30 credits) *
- Veterinary Interventions and Diagnostics (30 credits) *
- Advances in Equine Nutrition (15 credits)
- Ethical and Sustainable Approaches to Equine Welfare (30 credits)
- Major Project (30 credits)
- Performance Analysis and Advancement (30 credits) *
- Developments in Veterinary Science (30 credits) *
To prepare you for university study, you can take a foundation year at the start of this course. Find out more about foundation years.
- Into ARU
- Academic and Personal Management Skills (20 credits)
- Biological Concepts (Introduction to Laboratory Skills) (20 credits)
- Maths for IT and Science (15 credits)
- Chemistry for Life Sciences (15 credits)
- Independent (Themed) Project (20 credits)
- Applied Industry Techniques (30 credits)
It's possible to study this course part-time. You'll take the same modules as BSc/BA (Hons) students, but sometimes in a different order or in different years.
As a part-time student you'll typically study for twice as long as full-time students; for example if the BSc/BA (Hons) course takes three years, you can expect to study over six years, though for some courses the part-time length may differ.
UK students have the option to study Year 1 of this course, either for one year full-time or two years part-time, to achieve a CertHE. You can also choose to combine a foundation year with the CertHE. Contact us to discuss what you can do, or choose your preferred option when you apply.
Our course team includes industry-experienced staff and practitioners in equine rehabilitation, behaviour, nutrition and breeding, as well as competition riders and UKCC coaches.
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Briony WitherowSenior Lecturer
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Jane HartLecturer in Equine Performance
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Professor Roberta BlakeProfessor
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Rosa VerwijsSenior Lecturer in Equine Behaviour and Nutrition
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Stephanie FlaniganLecturer
Facilities
Study equine courses with ARU in Writtle and benefit from our Equine Training and Development Centre.
On our 150-hectare campus, we have around 70 horses, a working stable yard, indoor and outdoor riding arenas, an oval horse walker, and a therapy barn. We also have a DIY Livery Yard for your horse.
During your studies, you’ll have access to specialist equipment including Flir thermal imaging cameras, polar heart rate and heart rate variability monitors, operant devices, and collection area with phantom mare.
You’ll also be able to make full use of facilities including extensive library and IT resources and access support, should you need it, with study skills, careers advice, health and wellbeing, and more.
Take a guided tour and meet our students.
Equine Academy: support for talented riders
The Equine Academy at ARU Writtle supports a group of competition-level riders every year. It offers training sessions for the rider, stabling for the horse, and access to our equine facilities and experienced support staff.
Find out more about Equine Academy eligibility and how to apply.
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Our Equine Training and Development Centre featuring stables, riding arenas and a therapy barn including the latest industry technology.
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Our central track and turn out and look onto some of our rural, 150-hectare campus.
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There are around 70 horses on campus, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities for hands-on, real-world experiences.
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Explore industry-standard laboratories equipped with state-of-the-art equipment.
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Interactive lab sessions where you'll learn to identify major equine muscle groups and explore the basics of biomechanics.
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Our mechanical horse mimics real equine movement, while Tekscan delivers safe, data-driven training and research insights.
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Our EquiWatch headcollar monitors chew activity and feeding behaviour, while students collect valuable insights for research and practice.
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One of our three indoor riding arenas, each of which have different surface. This enables students to assess the impact of surfaces on equine biomechanics.
