MSc Applied Equine Science
Gloucester, United Kingdom
MSc
DURATION
3 years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time, Part time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
EARLIEST START DATE
Sep 2027
TUITION FEES
GBP 17,500 / per year
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
Key Summary
About: Hartpury University's MSc Applied Equine Science builds on prior knowledge with industry-informed modules exploring the science-practice interface in equine health, performance and rehabilitation. You'll use state-of-the-art equipment, including thermography, gait analysis and electromyography, and complete data-driven modules and a thesis with chances to present at conferences like the Alltech-Hartpury Student Research Conference. Field trips, guest lecturers and on-campus commercial facilities link learning to practice and industry networks.
Career Outcomes: You'll access on-campus career opportunities in commercial equine therapy and events, volunteering and networking. Graduates work as Animal Health Technician, Nutritional Advisor, University lecturer, or in research, veterinary support, management.
The programme builds on previous knowledge and skills through industry-informed study focused on applied equine science. Core subject areas include pathologies affecting performance management, research-informed clinical rehabilitation, equine cognition and behaviour, equine management, welfare and sustainability. Students can tailor assessments and optional module choices to their interests or career goals.
The MSc includes an independent postgraduate dissertation, supported by a specialist supervisor. Students are encouraged to attend and present at industry conferences, including the annual Alltech-Hartpury Student Research Conference. Teaching combines lectures, workshops, practical sessions and independent learning, with academic and professional input, field trips and opportunities to apply science in practice.
The course supports progression into equine-related careers through practical experience, professional networking and research engagement, while offering a Postgraduate Diploma route and flexible part-time study.
The programme is delivered across three trimesters and includes compulsory and optional modules. The MSc includes a 60-credit postgraduate dissertation and is completed through a combination of scheduled learning and independent study. Full-time study is delivered over three 12-week trimesters, normally comprising four or five scheduled teaching blocks and assessment weeks.
Compulsory modules include The Research Process, Investigating Equestrian Research, Equine Management for Optimal Performance and Welfare, Developing a Sustainable Equine Industry and the Postgraduate Dissertation. Optional modules include Postgraduate Independent Study, Rider Performance, Applied Equine Exercise Physiology, Therapy and Rehabilitation of the Equine Athlete, Equine Behaviour and Advances in Equestrian Biomechanics.
- Top 10 UK University - We're a top 10 UK university for overall postgraduate student satisfaction (PTES 2025, home students).
- World leading - Our research has been recognised as 'world-leading' and 'internationally excellent' (Research Excellence Framework 2021).
Graduates develop scientific, research, analytical, practical, communication, and professional skills related to equine performance, health, welfare, sustainability, and industry practice.
They learn to evaluate research methodologies, analyse research across equine science, assess management practices ethically and sustainably, apply biomechanical and physiological principles, and design, undertake, and report on an independent research project.
Hartpury has a number of scholarships available to support students from outside the UK.
Industry experience can be gained through Hartpury’s commercial equine therapy and performance centres, where students may work with clinical cases and network with veterinarians, farriers, nutritionists and other allied professionals. Students can also volunteer at national and international events hosted by the Equine Centre, including the Five Star Hartpury Horse Trials and the Hartpury International Festival of Dressage.
Field trips and guest lecturers provide exposure to different businesses, careers and professional practices. Recent graduate destinations include Animal Health Technician at an Equine Hospital, Research Ethics Officer at a University Hospital, Nutritional Advisor at Saracen Horse Feeds, Marketing Executive for an animal feed manufacturer, university lecturer, and Equine Events Coordinator at Hartpury Equestrian.
The programme combines applied biological science with real-world equine practice and provides access to specialist equestrian facilities and advanced technologies. Students can tailor assessments and optional modules to their interests, undertake an independent research dissertation, engage with industry professionals, and attend or present at the Alltech-Hartpury Student Research Conference.
Field trips, guest lecturers and on-campus commercial equine activities extend professional learning and networking.
- Teaching includes lectures, workshops, and practical sessions.
- Assessment may include written exams, oral exams, presentations, written assessments, reports, portfolios, written tests, poster defence, webinars, and video production.
The MSc assessment breakdown is 9% written exam, 25% practical exam, and 66% coursework.