Equine Behavioural Science

Further your knowledge and understanding of horse behaviour and welfare management with our practical, hands-on degree.

As a student here you’ll study specialist behaviour modules and use your knowledge to analyse and evaluate all areas of horsemanship, such as training, nutrition and welfare management.

You’ll be based in the Equine Training and Development Centre, which offers extensive facilities including a working stable yard, riding arenas and an equine therapy barn. There are around 70 horses on campus, and you’re able to bring your own horse to university too: find out more about our DIY Livery Yard.

Our course team includes industry-experienced staff and practitioners in equine rehabilitation, behaviour, nutrition and breeding, as well as competition riders and UKCC coaches.

We also work with the International Association of Animal Behaviour Consultants (IAABC) to bring you specialist tuition from renowned equine behavioural scientists. When you graduate, you’ll be able to apply for professional membership of the IAABC and receive ongoing support throughout your career.

There are a number of ways to study this course. As well as our 3-year full-time degree (6 years part-time), you have the option of studying over:

1 year to gain a Certificate in Higher Education

4 years including a foundation year, to gain a BSc

If you study the Cert HE initially, you'll take five core modules then follow one of five pathways. Each pathway includes 2-3 optional modules, and is a route into one of our five BSc (Hons) equine degrees. These degrees are:

Equine Behavioural Science

Equine Bioveterinary Science

Equine Performance Science

Equine Performance and Business Management

Equine Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation.

All BSc students study the same modules, with the addition of foundation year modules for those taking the 4-year course. Cert HE students study Year 1 BSc modules.