Entering higher education is exciting; but it can also be a daunting experience. At ARU, we want all our students to make the most of the opportunities higher education provides, reach your potential, become lifelong learners and find fulfilling careers. However, we appreciate that the shift from secondary education, or a return to formal education is, in itself, quite a journey. This module is designed to ease that transition. You'll be enrolled on it as soon as you receive an offer from ARU so you can begin to learn about university life before your course starts. Through Into ARU, you'll explore a virtual land modelled around ARU values: Courage, Innovation, Community, Integrity, Responsibility, and Ambition. This innovative module is designed as a game, where you collect knowledge and complete mini tasks. You'll proceed at your own pace, though we you to have completed your Into ARU exploration by week 6. If for any reason you're unable to complete by that date, we'll signpost to existing services so that we can be confident that you are supported.
View the full module definitionThis module provides a comprehensive overview of the Equine industry, covering a wide spectrum from sport and performance, to leisure, retail, tourism, research, breeding, therapy, working horses, and the education sector. As part of this module, you’ll develop a clear understanding how the different areas of the industry are governed, including the various legislation that underpins them. These insights will help you understand how the equine sector is structured and how it operates. You’ll look at the commercial aspects and the impact of economics and external factors on the health of the industry. A key theme in this module will be introducing the concept of Social Licence to Operate and the ethics and welfare considerations needed. This module will be future focused, looking at the current challenges and the emerging trends in the industry. You’ll be encouraged to consider your future career aspirations and consider how you can contribute meaningfully to the industry upon graduation. By the end of this module, you’ll have a well-rounded knowledge and understanding of the equine industry and its evolving landscape.
View the full module definitionThis module introduces you to the key scientific principles that underpin equine health, behaviour and nutrition, all grounded in a solid understanding of anatomy and physiology. You’ll begin by exploring how the horse's body is structured and how its anatomy supports key physiological functions. This includes in-depth study of the skeletal, muscular, digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular, and nervous systems. By examining the form and function of these systems, you’ll begin to understand how horses move, eat, respond to their environment, and maintain health. We’ll link theory with practice through hands-on activities, including dissections, to deepen your understanding of structure-function relationships and to connect physiological processes with practical application. You'll also be introduced to current research and scientific approaches to equine management. By learning how to interpret and apply scientific literature, you’ll begin to develop the analytical skills necessary for evaluating equine health and welfare practices. You’ll look at what drives equine behaviour, how diet affects performance and wellbeing, and what it really means to manage equine health holistically. By understanding how all these areas interact, you'll gain a complete picture of how to care for and manage horses based on scientific evidence. This module is all about building a strong foundation in equine science so you’re ready to apply this knowledge throughout your studies, make informed decisions about equine management and helping to prepare you for a future in the equine industry.
View the full module definitionThis module offers a comprehensive overview of essential equine care, husbandry and management practices, with a strong focus on the scientific and welfare-based principles that underpin sustainable equine systems. Taking a holistic approach, it aims to build your practical knowledge and confidence for effective and responsible equine management. You’ll learn how to assess and correctly fit a variety of commonly used riding and training equipment, focusing on how proper fit influences equine behaviour and performance. Using current research, you’ll evaluate the welfare implications to guide best practice. A key part of this module, is understanding equine behaviour, you’ll learn how to identify emotional states through behavioural responses, which is vital for safe handling and good management. Additionally, you’ll explore the factors influencing successful breeding and foaling, gaining knowledge to support these critical processes. Reproductive anatomy and physiology will be examined, with links to key interventions in the breeding and stud industry. By the end of the module, you’ll have a strong foundation in practical equine management that links directly to scientific principles and industry expectations.
View the full module definitionThis module offers you a thorough exploration of equine anatomy and how it relates to performance. Through a mix of lectures, hands-on practical sessions, dissections, and discussion-based learning, you’ll build a strong understanding of how a horse’s structure supports its movement and function. You’ll learn how to carry out both static (standing) and dynamic (in-motion) assessments to monitor equine health and performance effectively. With a focus on understanding how anatomical structure supports function across biological systems, this module will provide you with the insights into the suitability of different equestrian disciplines. The module will also introduce foundational knowledge of the axial and appendicular skeleton, joint structure and function, tendon and ligament anatomy and the nervous system. Behaviour and welfare considerations, including emotional state and pain indicators, will be integrated throughout to promote a holistic and ethical approach to equine assessment. By the end of this module, you’ll have a solid foundation in equine health and functional anatomy, knowledge that is essential to anyone preparing for professional roles within the industry.
View the full module definitionUnderstanding the behavioural mechanisms of the horse is fundamental to studying their behaviour in both natural and artificial environments. This module looks at the underpinning biology of how horses perceive their environment, the biological processes responsible for interpreting that information to produce the behavioural output we see, from natural, homeostatic behaviours, to undesirable behaviour patterns resulting from fear. The anatomy and physiology of the nervous, endocrine and sensory systems will be studied to identify their role in both processing information and effecting behavioural responses in a variety of environments. The impact of neurotransmitters and hormones on learning, stereotypies, stress and abnormal behaviours, as well as genetic influences, including breed and temperament, on behaviour will also be discussed as we apply this information to the training and management of domesticated horses.
View the full module definitionThis module dives into an in-depth exploration of the anatomical and physiological responses of horses to exercise and training, and how nutrition plays a key role in supporting equine sports performance. You’ll examine the energetics of exercise, focusing on the interplay between fuel stores, metabolic processes, and nutritional strategies that optimise energy availability and utilisation during physical activity. You’ll learn to critically evaluate both training methods and nutritional interventions, developing tailored programmes for various equine disciplines that incorporate dietary consideration. The module also explores how technology can be used to assess performance, the challenges of exercising horses in different climates, and strategies to prevent overtraining and fatigue. Ethical considerations related to nutrition and welfare in high-performance equine athletes is also considered, helping you understand how to balance performance goals with animal welfare. This module prepares you to understand and manage the complex interactions between exercise physiology and nutrition, equipping you with the skills to support equine athletes' performance and welfare in various contexts and disciplines.
View the full module definitionRuskin Modules are a great opportunity to explore challenges and ideas outside your area of study. Working with students from a range of courses, you'll be supported to create meaningful connections across disciplines, and apply new knowledge to tackle complex problems and key challenges. Ruskin Modules are designed to grow your confidence, realise your potential and help you prepare for the world of work.
The module is designed to develop the knowledge, understanding, skills and thought processes necessary for effective original research. You will study the nature and fundamentals of the research process, such as literature reviewing skills, the design of a research project, techniques for collection of research data and statistical techniques for analysing research data and drawing valid evidence-based inferences.
View the full module definitionThis module builds on the knowledge you gained in the first year in Foundation of Equine Science. It aims to provide you with a deeper understanding of both infectious and non-infectious diseases, primarily using the horse species as an example. It includes analysis of the causes, prevention, control and treatment of these diseases. For the main equine microbiological and parasitic pathogens, their pathogenicity and associated immune response will be presented. You’ll investigate what types of implications are involved in the onset and development of infectious and noninfectious diseases. You’ll also evaluate the effect of different extrinsic and intrinsic factors on the development of these diseases. The module aims to develop your knowledge of health issues that affect horses in a range of environments and situations both nationally and internationally. Throughout the module, you’ll critically evaluate a series of academic research papers in order to achieve a broad overall view of the issues concerning equine health. Your assessment will give you the opportunity to dive into a given topic which will provide development of your analytical skills, your technical knowledge on the subject and your ability to research the market to develop a product.
View the full module definitionYou will gain an understanding of the principles and techniques used for the management of equine breeding stock. You'll demonstrate knowledge of correct industry practice along with the requirements and obligations required of the stud farm manager. The issues of reproductive management, manipulation and the problems raised by sub-fertile animals will be raised. The use and implementation of common breeding technologies (artificial insemination (chilled and frozen), embryo transfer) will be discussed along with introductory genetics relating to the breeding of horses. Practical sessions will be used when appropriate, eg at semen collections and laboratory analysis.
View the full module definitionThis module is designed to help you apply both theoretical understanding and practical application of the primary considerations of equine training. You’ll explore through evaluation and understanding of limitations relating to age, breeds and disciplines and develop an understanding of the horse’s behavioural indicators, musculoskeletal development and physiological responses to training. You’ll also consider important aspects like maturity and longevity, along with a clear concept of the correct way of going, using discipline specific case study scenarios. You’ll develop assessment and evaluation skills which are key to being able to effectively communicate appropriate information in relation to discipline specific training and fitness of the horse-rider dyad, and training options will be investigated to optimise outcomes. This will also include education on the use of training aids, equipment and appropriate evaluation technology for the individual. You’ll be guided in developing plans and support the progression of young horses, considering their development through different ages and stages. Goal settings and demonstrating understanding of their developmental and progressive outcomes will be central to your learnings. You’ll benefit from structured support in an arena setting through observations and communication. Using coaching theory in a practical situation, you will design, plan, implement and reflect on training on the flat and over fences, you will also develop communication and equestrian skills which can potentially lead towards industry qualifications. This module is aligned to and enhances the UKCC level 2 in equestrian coaching and will be useful for students who are interested in being a generic equestrian coach or looking to specialise in any of the other riding disciplines.
View the full module definitionThis module provides an in-depth exploration of diagnostic techniques and therapeutic interventions, primarily focused on the horse species. You’ll develop understanding in diagnostic imaging, which regroups advanced imaging techniques such as radiography, ultrasonography, and MRI, understanding their applications, benefits and limitations in diagnosing equine health issues. A second key areas of study includes laboratory diagnostics, which covers the use of various laboratory tests, including blood work, microbiological cultures and molecular diagnostics to identify and monitor diseases in horses. You’ll study the pathological processes and changes that occur in equine diseases, learning how clinical signs and laboratory results are interpreted to make accurate diagnoses. This knowledge will allow you to understand the rationale behind effective prevention strategy, control and treatment plans against the main infectious and non-infectious diseases that affect horses. By the end of the module, you’ll be equipped to understand and define the advantages and disadvantages of current diagnostic and therapeutic strategies used in equine clinical settings. The module aims to develop your knowledge of veterinary interventions and diagnostics currently used to address health issues that affect horses.
View the full module definitionThis module is designed to explore the latest research and developments in equine nutrition, focusing on optimising health, performance and well-being in horses through advanced dietary strategies. It aims to keep you up to date with current aspects of the equine feed industry, including feed legislation, marketing, and the suitability of various feeds for a range of horses, from performance to those requiring clinical support. You’ll explore key topics include nutrition for performance horses, energy requirements, the suitability of different nutrients for various disciplines, and the evaluation of ergogenic aids. Additionally, you’ll investigate the role of nutrition in the causation and management of clinical disorders such as obesity, laminitis, and other metabolic diseases. By the end of this module, you’ll be equipped with a comprehensive understanding of current research and market trends in equine nutrition, enabling you to make informed dietary recommendations.
View the full module definitionThis module will guide you through the ethical and sustainable use of horses across various sectors including performance, leisure, work, breeding, and sport. Each of these areas presents its own unique ethical considerations and at any given time there are a range of critical welfare issues challenging the wellbeing of the horse. You’ll explore how current welfare standards are governed by a mix of legislation, governance frameworks, and regulatory compliance measures. These standards differ significantly across regions and sectors, which can represent further challenges in terms of their compliance with recent research findings, industry initiatives and as such their efficacy in regulating stakeholders in the industry. This module will also examine the role of management and husbandry practices in influencing horse welfare. Key factors such as housing, transport, tack, and training aids play crucial roles. Extrinsic factors such as nutrition, pain, and disease also affect the behavioural wellbeing of horses and failing to meet their behavioural needs can result in abnormal behaviours and stereotypies as well as a wide range of behavioural problems, that challenge human caretakers and further compromise equine welfare. The ethical challenges in horse welfare include balancing the needs of the horse with the demands of human use. Throughout this module, you’ll look at how the role of welfare organisations plays a pivotal role in promoting ethical leadership and safeguarding horse welfare. You’ll explore strategies for future-proofing horse welfare, which involves developing ethical frameworks, evolving standards, adapting management practices, and promoting sustainability in husbandry and training. Advocating for horses, promoting social responsibility, and fostering ethical leadership are essential to driving positive change. Since human behaviour greatly impacts horse welfare, addressing these factors is essential for making meaningful improvements in the equine industry.
View the full module definitionThis module gives you the opportunity to demonstrate autonomy within a project-based topic of your choice. The project will be linked directly to your award programme and demonstrate clearly the development and acquisition of academic, transferable and important graduate level employability skills pertinent to your chosen sector. It will provide you with the essential experience of project development, research and project management. Your project may be based on current Anglia Ruskin University research interests or be something of interest to you. Your project must show evidence of appropriate academic challenge, technical expertise, and progress. You‘ll be required to identify and formulate a project, conduct a literature review, evaluate information, investigate and adopt suitable research methods, perform primary or secondary data collection and processing. You‘ll demonstrate that you have fulfilled these criteria via regular meetings with your project supervisor where you will show evidence of project development via discussion and the presentation of spoken, written and other appropriate evidence. A substantial dissertation will form the bulk of the assessment for the project. In this major project you‘ll be able to explore a specific issue pertinent to your discipline and in greater depth than is possible elsewhere in the course. You’ll also be expected to demonstrate the knowledge and skills expected of an Honours undergraduate as defined in the relevant QAA descriptors and benchmarking statements. During the project, you’ll develop skills in data collection, data handling and analysis, as well as science communication skills, both oral and written. These skills are transferable to a wide range wide of careers in many industries.
View the full module definitionThis module offers you a comprehensive understanding of the evolving equine industry, emphasising the urgency of sustainability and innovative practices as well as Social Licence to Operate (SLO). As awareness of animal welfare and environmental responsibility increases, the equine sector faces growing pressure to adopt methods that enhance horse welfare, while reducing ecological impact. In this module, you’ll explore how cutting-edge innovations ranging from advancements in veterinary medicine and health monitoring to sustainable breeding techniques and eco-friendly facility management can transform traditional equine practices. You’ll critically assess the implications of these innovations on horse welfare, considering ethical dimensions and responsible management. Through global case studies, you’ll gain insights into successful strategies and initiatives implemented across various equine contexts. This module encourages reflective and reflexive practice, enabling you to develop your own sustainable equine management strategies through collaborative projects, presentations and research assignments. Ultimately, this module aims to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to promote sustainability within the industry, fostering a holistic understanding of the importance of innovation, animal welfare, and environmental stewardship for a sustainable future in equine management.
View the full module definitionThe horse and rider dyad are ever evolving through the stages of training and require consistent evaluation of the multiple and often complex elements involved in producing a competitive partnership. In this module, you’ll explore how training protocols based on discipline specific Needs Analysis outcomes, and awareness of physiological responses to exercise, are crucial for enhancing both horse and rider fitness. Technology has evolved significantly, allowing us to identify the more detailed and targeted responses to training outcomes and could potentially become more common to use these tools in supporting all disciplines associated within the industry. In this module, you’ll learn how equestrian athletes should be considered in the same structured way as that of any other athlete competing in other sports and should be undertaking data driven techniques to improve training outcomes. There is an overwhelming opinion suggesting there is a need for a scientific approach to the equestrian athlete's preparation for competition which includes both evaluation and prescriptive exercise protocols. This involves the understanding of adaptations to training, nutrition, physiological and psychological responses and the use of performance analysis through available technology. This module explores the physiological parameters that may give the equestrian athlete ‘the edge’ and increase their chance of competitive success.
View the full module definitionThis module focuses on advanced concepts related to equine health and performance management, and explores the medical, epidemiological and technological aspects of horse care. Within this module, you’ll explore the development of foals from birth through early training stages. You’ll study their growth and physiological changes, alongside their behavioural development, nutrition, health care, handling and training techniques. The module provides an in-depth examination of equine sports medicine, which includes understanding the physical demands placed on horses during various athletic activities and the strategies to optimise their performance and recovery. You’ll discuss reproductive physiology and breeding technologies, gaining insights into the latest advancements in equine reproduction and the methods used to enhance breeding outcomes. This module is designed to equip you with the knowledge to understand and manage the diagnosis, prevention, and control of diseases affecting equine populations. You’ll learn about the epidemiological patterns of equine diseases, the latest diagnostic tools, and the best practices for disease prevention and management. By the end of this module, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted aspects of equine health and performance management, preparing you to apply this knowledge in real-world scenarios.
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