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 will support you in preparing and submitting independent learning projects, with a particular emphasis on topics relevant to the equine industry. It will enable you to explore subjects not covered in other models with clearly defined academic and professional guidelines. You’ll gain the foundational principles of independent research, critical analysis and practical skills, all aimed at developing your professional practice and lifelong learning capabilities. Throughout this module, you’ll engage with essential concepts such as sustainable practices within the equine industry, digital literacy for effective research and data management, personal resilience in managing industry challenges, and the ability to communicate using diverse and effective methods. A key focus will be placed on understanding the regulatory frameworks and legislation that impact the field, including horse racing regulations to include British Horse Racing Authority (BHA), breeding practices, and Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) rules which influence international equestrian sports. Additionally, the module will explore key legislation related to veterinary physiotherapy. You’ll explore legal requirements, professional standards and the scope of practice for veterinary physiotherapists, with an emphasis on compliance with laws governing animal treatment and welfare. This will include understanding how regulations intersect with equine physiotherapy practices to ensure ethical and lawful treatment of animals. This module seeks to enhance your professional skills, preparing you to understand the equine industry's legislative and ethical standards comprehensively. By doing so, it will ensure you are well-equipped to enter the industry confidently, contribute to advancements in equine welfare and performance, and uphold high standards of practice within veterinary physiotherapy.
View the full module definitionThis module will investigate the key factors that impact the performance and well-being of equine. You’ll develop a thorough understanding of how various environmental and management practices impact equine health and welfare, particularly in the contexts of training, competition and everyday care. An emphasis will be placed on how these factors directly affect equine athletic performance, recovery and overall well-being. Throughout the module, you’ll engage in active discussions and analysis of evidence-based research, with a strong focus on considerations relevant to therapists assessing equine patients for therapeutic intervention. Practical application will be central, as we encourage you to integrate your knowledge in a way that informs best practice within the equine industry. This module will include an in-depth examination of critical factors such as equine equipment, training aids, arena surfaces, farriery practices, saddle fitting, and the influence of rider biomechanics. Additionally, it will cover various equine training practices, performance disciplines, and training methods used to optimise athletic outcomes. You’ll explore the unique demands of different equestrian disciplines and the impact of specific training regimens on equine musculoskeletal and physiological health. Through a combination of lectures, hands-on practical sessions, and interactive discussions, you’ll gain the skills to adopt a holistic approach to managing and enhancing equine performance and welfare.
View the full module definitionIn this module, you’ll enhance your understanding of the relationship between structure and function in the equine species. Emphasis will be placed on exploring key anatomical systems, species-specific diversity, and the physiological regulation of major body systems in horses. You’ll build a solid foundational understanding of the scientific principles underlying comparative anatomy and physiology through a mix of lectures, interactive workshops, dissections, and hands-on practical sessions. You’ll gain proficiency in identifying critical anatomical landmarks on live horses, enhancing your skills in equine assessment and care. Your comprehension of material presented in lectures and practical activities will be assessed through short quizzes. Your weekly portfolio work will encourage you to investigate the functional mechanisms that contribute to the overall health and performance of the horse, building a robust foundation for equine anatomy enquiry in subsequent modules in this course.
View the full module definitionIn this module, you’ll learn the essential skills for safely handling equines during various assessments and explore how to adapt this based on their environment. An emphasis will be placed on you implementing health and safety protocols within our equine practical environments. You’ll learn the clinical assessment process, which involves collecting comprehensive case information and conducting both static and dynamic evaluations of horses. These foundational skills will be progressively developed throughout the course. You’ll gain an understanding of different horse breeds and types, focusing on how conformation and movement impact performance and health, as well as the associated risks of poor conformation. Through practical sessions and group activities you’ll foster teamwork and gain respect for differing opinions and be encouraged to take the initiative. You’ll be expected to adapt to changing scenarios and negotiate solutions while working on developing interdisciplinary skills, which are crucial skills in equine therapeutic practice. Reflective learning will play a key role, prompting you to assess your own proficiency and competency, thus enhancing self confidence, promoting independence, and improving your ability to work effectively with clients. Additionally, the module will provide an overview of the equine therapy industry, emphasising the importance of operating within one’s professional scope, collaborating with equine paraprofessionals and seeking membership in relevant professional associations.
View the full module definitionThis module provides a comprehensive exploration of the interconnected aspects of equine nutrition, behaviour, and welfare. You’ll study the biochemical foundations of equine nutrition, examining the roles of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in digestive physiology, energy production and overall metabolism. By the end of this module, you’ll be able to describe the basic nutritional needs of horses and identify how these needs support general health. Understanding the behavioural needs and mechanisms of horses is crucial for ensuring their well-being. This module will look into the behaviour and welfare considerations of horses during their management, handling, and riding, evaluating how we can meet their behavioural needs, recognise affective states and create environments that promote optimal welfare, following the latest welfare models and legislation. Welfare considerations are integrated throughout the module, emphasising the ethical and practical aspects of caring for horses. Topics include the assessment of welfare standards, the role of nutrition in disease prevention and management, and strategies and enrichment to enhance the quality of life for horses in various settings.
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.
Hydrotherapy is becoming increasingly popular in equine physical therapy for enhancing performance and well-being by addressing functional imbalances, promoting fitness, improving athletic performance, aiding post-surgical recovery and managing chronic or degenerative conditions. As equine hydrotherapy is practised in the UK, this module emphasises the legal framework in which therapists must conduct themselves. You’ll learn to prepare a horse for hydrotherapy, from habituation through to treatment and assess a horse’s suitability for treatment and water management. Additionally, this module covers water management, plant functions, water chemistry, cleaning of the equipment and the use of chemicals. Furthermore, you’ll demonstrate practical competency in evaluating first-aid situations and administering first-aid where appropriate. You’ll gain hands-on experience in a clinical setting to develop practical skills and gain industry experience. The module aims to impart knowledge on hydrotherapy principles, equipment usage, referral procedures, professional duties and health and safety responsibilities. It also teaches you to evaluate a client’s suitability based on history, clinical condition, multidisciplinary team information, physical assessment and management and related health and safety regulations. You’ll develop the confidence and ability to assess patients and suggest appropriate hydrotherapy interventions; while ensuring you stay within the scope of professional practice.
View the full module definitionThis module explores the fundamental principles and practical applications of manual interventions in equine physiotherapy. You’ll build on the assessment skills learned in Principles and Application of Manual Intervention, by integrating and evaluating the essential stages of assessing horses for physiotherapy sessions, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the initial evaluation process and developing the foundations of appropriate interventions.
View the full module definitionIn this module, you’ll be introduced to the main principles of pathophysiology with a specific emphasis on equine health. You’ll explore the mechanisms involved in the immune response in horses and examine how microorganisms cause pathological processes in equids. You’ll also cover how mechanical tissue injury in horses can lead to local and potentially systemic inflammation. You’ll discuss key concepts in preventative medicine for horses, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, with a focus on understanding the factors that influence the efficacy and application of pharmacological agents in equine care. Key topics include pain management, mechanisms of action and strategies for addressing pain in horses. You’ll learn how health issues affect horses in various environments, including stabling, turnout and during performance or training. Through analysing a range of academic research papers focused on equine health, you’ll deepen your understanding of real-world issues faced by horses in different settings. The assessment will encourage you to conduct in-depth research on a specific equine health topic, allowing you to further develop your analytical, evaluative, and technical skills as well as your knowledge in equine health management.
View the full module definitionThe 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 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 definitionIn this module, you’ll be provided with a thorough understanding of the neuromusculoskeletal conditions in equines, including common tissue dysfunctions and their effects on movement. You'll be introduced to movement theories and various biomechanical analysis techniques specifically applied to equine locomotion. You'll learn to analyse the different types of motion in equines, discussing the anatomical and mechanical factors that influence movement, from gait to posture. Also considering the impact of jumping kinematics observing anatomical and mechanical factors that influence movement, from stride to take-off, flight phase and landing. The knowledge you gain will be applied to equines in various settings, combining theoretical learning with practical sessions. You'll explore the link between tissue assessment (such as muscle tone, joint health, and soft tissue condition) and how these factors affect a horse’s ability to move efficiently and comfortably while considering the various disciplines and their required movements.
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 builds on the knowledge and practical skills you’ve gained in previous modules and enables you to develop a deeper practical understanding of the scientific and technical issues surrounding therapeutic intervention for the horse. Through a mix of lectures and practical hands-on sessions, you’ll develop the theoretical knowledge and practical application skills to be both effective and competent when applying therapeutic interventions within scope of practice for the equine therapist. You’ll develop and refine your evaluation skills in relation to assessment of the horse, which will enable you to identify the limitations of the musculoskeletal system of an individual and understand compensatory mechanisms seen in the body with regards to posture and movement. You’ll develop case histories and maintain record keeping evidencing a clear and succinct approach to the overall assessment of the equine patient. You’ll be assessed on your assessment process, anatomical knowledge and justification of treatment modalities, where you’ll be required to demonstrate the skills required to apply therapeutic reasoning and correct application of rehabilitation modalities to improve the outcome for the horse whether in a rehabilitation or wellness programme. You’ll further develop your understanding of common pathologies and musculoskeletal dysfunctions seen in the horse and learn how to tailor individual treatments to address or improve these issues. You will continue to strengthen your written and verbal communication skills and be encouraged to develop a team approach as you’ll need to be able to interact with potential clients, veterinary surgeons, trainers, farriers and other specialist therapists. By the end of the module, you’ll learn to enhance your verbal and written communication skills, critical evaluation, integration of scientific literature to practical situations .
View the full module definitionThis module develops an understanding of the scientific principles behind physical training and the physiological factors affecting athletic performance for various equine sporting and performance disciplines, as well as in considering baseline and post-rehabilitation fitness. In this module, you’ll study the horse’s physiological responses to exercise as well as the adaptations that occur as a result of long-term physical training. This includes looking in detail at responses of the individual body systems as well as the equine athlete as a whole. You’ll cover methods of both training and performance testing, analysing the efficacy of specific training techniques, both from a performance enhancement point of view, and with regards to preventing fatigue and injury development. You’ll also explore a range of ethical training methods that should be used to ensure professional and welfare practices are maintained. You’ll critically engage with current scientific literature and recent advances in equine performance preparation, enabling you to apply the latest research to real-world training scenarios. Plus, an awareness of the impact of external factors will be developed, focusing predominantly on exercise and training in different climate conditions and thermoregulatory issues.
View the full module definitionThis module integrates the study of veterinary pathophysiology and biomechanics so you can understand how intrinsic, extrinsic factors, diseases and injuries affect the musculoskeletal and nervous systems in animals, particularly focusing on horses. This module has a special focus on the important factors relating to animal structure and movement and integrates the functional aspects of correct movement and changes that occur due to injury and disease. The module presents an in-depth exploration of the underlying principles of biomechanics, and veterinary pathophysiology. You’ll learn to identify, assess, and manage common pathologies and conditions affecting movement and function, focusing on applying biomechanical principles in veterinary physiotherapy to develop appropriate rehabilitation strategies. The module will make use of taught sessions and practical on live animals in order to give you a detailed understanding of musculoskeletal structure and function, and implications on injury and disease and rehabilitation. This will enable you to develop gait evaluation skills, qualitatively and quantitatively. A focus will be placed on relating form to function, giving an appreciation of how the musculoskeletal and nervous systems act to generate locomotion. Musculoskeletal and nervous dysfunction will also be discussed in order to enhance understanding of the above principles and the implications on their pathology. You’ll integrate theoretical knowledge with practical knowledge and have the opportunity to gain skills in using biomechanics technology. By combining pathophysiology and biomechanics, this module gives you the tools to approach rehabilitation in a targeted, informed, and ethical way, ensuring the best outcomes for animal patients under your care.
View the full module definitionThis module provides a solid foundation for becoming a reflective, adaptable, and well-rounded professional in the animal therapy and wider paraprofessional sectors. You’ll learn how to conduct market research to deepen your understanding about the industry and relevant legal considerations, enabling you to identify and critically evaluate information relevant to a business sector of your interest. You’ll also build an understanding of the types of clients you are likely to be working and interacting with in future and how to communicate with them effectively via various communication channels. Additionally, you’ll develop skills to collaborate efficiently with other paraprofessionals and build strong professional networks; essential skills for thriving in a business environment where relationship-building is key. You’ll take a close look at your own strengths and areas for improvement by evaluating your own skills, identifying development opportunities and planning your personal professional development, while developing interdisciplinary skills vital for the animal therapy sector. In addition, you’ll enhance your time management skills and gain financial literacy skills to support your transition to employment after graduation, ensuring that you are well-prepared for real-world challenges and long-term career success. By the end of the module, you’ll have developed a comprehensive understanding of the professional landscape, improved your ability to navigate industry-specific challenges, and gained the confidence to take ownership of your career development.
View the full module definitionThis module develops an understanding of the scientific principles behind physical training and the physiological factors affecting athletic performance for various equine sporting and performance disciplines, as well as in considering baseline and post-rehabilitation fitness. In this module, you’ll study the horse’s physiological responses to exercise as well as the adaptations that occur as a result of long-term physical training. This includes looking in detail at responses of the individual body systems as well as the equine athlete as a whole. You’ll cover methods of both training and performance testing, analysing the efficacy of specific training techniques, both from a performance enhancement point of view, and with regards to preventing fatigue and injury development. You’ll also explore a range of ethical training methods that should be used to ensure professional and welfare practices are maintained. You’ll critically engage with current scientific literature and recent advances in equine performance preparation, enabling you to apply the latest research to real-world training scenarios. Plus, an awareness of the impact of external factors will be developed, focusing predominantly on exercise and training in different climate conditions and thermoregulatory issues.
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 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.
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