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Bsc Hons Equine Science

Equine Science (with Foundation Year)

BSc (Hons)

If you’re fascinated by the horse as an athlete and want to learn more about how these incredible animals work, then this is the course for you.

The foundation year entry provides an alternative route into degree-level study. It’s ideal for those who need to develop their knowledge of biology or study skills in order to progress onto the full BSc qualification.

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Key Information

Course Duration: 4 or 5 years full time; part-time available
UC UCAS Code: DF34
Part or Full Time: Full Time / Part Time
Level of Study: Foundation Year Degrees
Placement Year: Optional
Typical Offer: 32-48 UCAS tariff points or equivalent

Course information

Download Programme Specification

You’ll study a broad range of equine science topics, with options to tailor your learning to a number of interests and career pathways.

You don’t need to ride - all you need is a passion for horses and science, which you want to apply within the equine industry.

You’ll benefit from world-class facilities including our Equine Therapy Centre, industry-standard science labs and 230 horses on campus, while you study how the horse’s body works, developing expertise in exercise anatomy and physiology and the impact that exercise has on the horse.

This applied science degree combines theory with practice, enabling you to develop in-depth knowledge and skills.

You’ll hear from leading industry and research experts and strengthen your learning through practical application and field trips. You’ll also have the opportunity to study a semester of your degree overseas.

UCAS tariff points | 32-48 UCAS tariff points. 

 

A Levels | EE-DD or equivalent from at least one full A Level. 

 

Vocational Awards | PPP in an Extended Diploma. 

 

Access | 32-48 UCAS tariff points in an Access to Higher Education Diploma. 

 

International Baccalaureate | 32-48 UCAS tariff points in an IB Diploma, to include one Higher at H3 or above. 

 

Scottish Highers | 32-48 UCAS tariff points from at least one Higher. You must have completed two years study at Higher Level.  

 

Irish Leaving Certificate | 32-48 UCAS tariff points from at least one Higher.  

 

T Level | An overall grade of Pass. 

 

Additional Information 

In addition to the above, we require a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 9-4 (A*-C), to include English and Maths. We will consider equivalencies including but not limited to functional skills level 2, Irish Ordinary level, National 5s, IB standard level.  

We will consider combinations of level three qualifications. 

We welcome applications from individuals with equivalent, non-UK qualifications and mature students (over 21). We may interview as part of the application process. 

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Your career

Industry opportunities on this course are diverse to ensure you develop the skills, experience and connections needed for your graduate career. Many of our students secure graduate roles with their work placement employers.

Work placement opportunities

With the optional integrated placement year before your final year, you’ll have the opportunity to gain valuable industry experience. We’ll support you to secure a placement with a UK-based or international employer, to match your interests and career goals.

Placements can be paid or unpaid, depending on the position. Students have previously worked with organisations such as the Royal School of Veterinary Studies (University of Edinburgh) and pharmaceutical companies, welfare charities and equine studs. Others decide to gain experience through their own relationships further afield.

Through the support of our ICE department and your tutor, we will support you to secure a placement to match your interests and career goals.

Our commercial Equine Therapy Centre also offers opportunities to gain industry experience – either on work placements or in a voluntary role.

Guest lecturers and field trips

Industry professionals form an important part of your learning, enabling you to experience different businesses and careers. Recent guest lecturers have included professionals from equine nutrition companies, such as Baileys Horse Feeds and Saracens Horse Feeds, Three Counties Equine Hospital, and equine charities, such as Horse World, as well as leading researchers within the field of equine science.

Field trips are also used to enhance your learning experience. Recent field trips included visits to Lambourn Equine Vets and the KWPN Stallion Grading in Holland.

Study internationally

Our Study Abroad programme means you can make the most of opportunities to study a semester of your degree at one of our partner institutions, while achieving credits towards your degree. Current study abroad partnerships include Delaware University in the USA.

Graduate destinations

As an equine science graduate, the career opportunities are diverse. You may go on to work for equine charities, nutrition companies, governing bodies within the wider equine industry or progress into further postgraduate study. Our careers team can support you to find and prepare to secure your perfect role.

Recent graduate destinations have included:

  • Welfare Research Officer, Horse Trust
  • Nutritionist
  • Lab technician roles
  • Technical Policy Advisor, Home Office
  • British Horseracing Authority Graduate Scheme
  • Postgraduate Study - MSc Applied Equine Science, MSc Equitation Science, MRes Equestrian Science
Success Stories

Your support network

You'll benefit from a strong support network from day one to be the best you can be. This will range from your personal tutor and specialist academic support team (our Achievement and Success Centre) to dedicated wellbeing and employability (Innovation, Careers and Enterprise) centres.

Academic support

You’ll have your own personal tutor while you’re here who will support you to succeed in your studies. You’ll also have access to our academic and wellbeing support teams who run regular workshops and one-to-one sessions on campus and online.

Alongside this, we have a comprehensive bank of online study skills resources to help you make the most of your qualification.

Your learning experiences

You'll experience a range of teaching methods to strengthen your digestion of topics, including lectures, workshops and practical sessions, as well as supported work placement learning as part of many courses.

Your career

Each year of your course will be made up of two semesters, within which you’ll study compulsory and optional modules on different industry-focused topics, enabling you to develop your own unique portfolio of knowledge, skills and experience, ready for your career. The course is taught in English.

Course information

Overview

You’ll study a broad range of equine science topics, with options to tailor your learning to a number of interests and career pathways.

You don’t need to ride - all you need is a passion for horses and science, which you want to apply within the equine industry.

You’ll benefit from world-class facilities including our Equine Therapy Centre, industry-standard science labs and 230 horses on campus, while you study how the horse’s body works, developing expertise in exercise anatomy and physiology and the impact that exercise has on the horse.

This applied science degree combines theory with practice, enabling you to develop in-depth knowledge and skills.

You’ll hear from leading industry and research experts and strengthen your learning through practical application and field trips. You’ll also have the opportunity to study a semester of your degree overseas.

Entry requirements

UCAS tariff points | 32-48 UCAS tariff points. 

 

A Levels | EE-DD or equivalent from at least one full A Level. 

 

Vocational Awards | PPP in an Extended Diploma. 

 

Access | 32-48 UCAS tariff points in an Access to Higher Education Diploma. 

 

International Baccalaureate | 32-48 UCAS tariff points in an IB Diploma, to include one Higher at H3 or above. 

 

Scottish Highers | 32-48 UCAS tariff points from at least one Higher. You must have completed two years study at Higher Level.  

 

Irish Leaving Certificate | 32-48 UCAS tariff points from at least one Higher.  

 

T Level | An overall grade of Pass. 

 

Additional Information 

In addition to the above, we require a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 9-4 (A*-C), to include English and Maths. We will consider equivalencies including but not limited to functional skills level 2, Irish Ordinary level, National 5s, IB standard level.  

We will consider combinations of level three qualifications. 

We welcome applications from individuals with equivalent, non-UK qualifications and mature students (over 21). We may interview as part of the application process. 

Employability

Your career

Industry opportunities on this course are diverse to ensure you develop the skills, experience and connections needed for your graduate career. Many of our students secure graduate roles with their work placement employers.

Work placement opportunities

With the optional integrated placement year before your final year, you’ll have the opportunity to gain valuable industry experience. We’ll support you to secure a placement with a UK-based or international employer, to match your interests and career goals.

Placements can be paid or unpaid, depending on the position. Students have previously worked with organisations such as the Royal School of Veterinary Studies (University of Edinburgh) and pharmaceutical companies, welfare charities and equine studs. Others decide to gain experience through their own relationships further afield.

Through the support of our ICE department and your tutor, we will support you to secure a placement to match your interests and career goals.

Our commercial Equine Therapy Centre also offers opportunities to gain industry experience – either on work placements or in a voluntary role.

Guest lecturers and field trips

Industry professionals form an important part of your learning, enabling you to experience different businesses and careers. Recent guest lecturers have included professionals from equine nutrition companies, such as Baileys Horse Feeds and Saracens Horse Feeds, Three Counties Equine Hospital, and equine charities, such as Horse World, as well as leading researchers within the field of equine science.

Field trips are also used to enhance your learning experience. Recent field trips included visits to Lambourn Equine Vets and the KWPN Stallion Grading in Holland.

Study internationally

Our Study Abroad programme means you can make the most of opportunities to study a semester of your degree at one of our partner institutions, while achieving credits towards your degree. Current study abroad partnerships include Delaware University in the USA.

Graduate destinations

As an equine science graduate, the career opportunities are diverse. You may go on to work for equine charities, nutrition companies, governing bodies within the wider equine industry or progress into further postgraduate study. Our careers team can support you to find and prepare to secure your perfect role.

Recent graduate destinations have included:

  • Welfare Research Officer, Horse Trust
  • Nutritionist
  • Lab technician roles
  • Technical Policy Advisor, Home Office
  • British Horseracing Authority Graduate Scheme
  • Postgraduate Study - MSc Applied Equine Science, MSc Equitation Science, MRes Equestrian Science

How you'll study

Your support network

You'll benefit from a strong support network from day one to be the best you can be. This will range from your personal tutor and specialist academic support team (our Achievement and Success Centre) to dedicated wellbeing and employability (Innovation, Careers and Enterprise) centres.

Academic support

You’ll have your own personal tutor while you’re here who will support you to succeed in your studies. You’ll also have access to our academic and wellbeing support teams who run regular workshops and one-to-one sessions on campus and online.

Alongside this, we have a comprehensive bank of online study skills resources to help you make the most of your qualification.

Your learning experiences

You'll experience a range of teaching methods to strengthen your digestion of topics, including lectures, workshops and practical sessions, as well as supported work placement learning as part of many courses.

Your career

Each year of your course will be made up of two semesters, within which you’ll study compulsory and optional modules on different industry-focused topics, enabling you to develop your own unique portfolio of knowledge, skills and experience, ready for your career. The course is taught in English.

Modules

What you'll study

This degree covers a wide range of equine science topics through compulsory and optional modules, which you'll be able to choose from to suit your interests and career goals.

Core topics will cover anatomy and physiology of the horse, equine health and disease, nutrition, reproduction and genetics, and exercise physiology.

Optional modules will allow you to specialise your degree to suit your interests and career goals. You can attend introductory sessions for optional modules before deciding which ones to study.

Module credits

On successful completion of your modules you’ll gain academic credit that accumulates towards your award. The marks you gain in your second and third years may contribute towards your final degree classification.

Your foundation year will allow you to develop study skills and specific knowledge around biological science. This will support you moving into year one. In addition, you’ll be introduced to equine science and begin to explore the equine industry.

Compulsory Modules 

Academic Literacy for University Studies

Understand and explore topics including the scientific method and enquiry, team working, research skills, and effective time management.

Professional Development in Practice

An opportunity to explore graduate destinations associated with your programme of study, building a portfolio of experiences aiding your professional development. 

Exploring Current Concepts

Develop understanding and knowledge of literature reviews including constructing a rationale and summarising and presenting relevant information to suit a purpose, subject and audience.

Equine Studies

This module introduces central anatomy, physiology, welfare and health that underpin best husbandry and management practices, along with key legislation and health and safety requirements in the equine industry.

Biological Principles for Land-Based Scientists

Study fundamental biological aspects to gain a clear understanding of how organisms come about and how they function and operate for survival and performance.

This year will focus on fundamental topics relating to the horse, with an introduction to key topics such as anatomy and veterinary science through to nutrition and the equine industry itself. Each module aims to give you the fundamental skills to study at higher levels and give you practical skills for the future.

Compulsory Modules 

Equine Functional Anatomy

Learn about the biological systems of the horse, how they interact and how they can be managed.

Equine Industry

Discuss the scope and management of the equine industry in the UK and Europe.

Fundamental Skills for the Equine Scientist

Get to grips with the basics of data analysis, key laboratory practices and safety procedures.

Introduction to Equine Nutrition

Study the basic principles of equine feeding and nutrition.

Equine Veterinary Science

Understand the balance between health and disease, and apply management and control theories to practical situations.

Equine Genetics

An introduction to genetics and its role within the equine population.

Explore your chosen topic areas in more detail during your second year, applying knowledge you have gained in year one and investigating more complex concepts with the support of your tutors.

Alongside your core modules around topics such as equine nutrition, reproduction, health and disease, and exercise physiology, you’ll start tailoring your degree to individual areas of interest with the use of exciting and varied option modules. For example, you might be interested in exploring areas such as equine behaviour or biomechanics.

Compulsory Modules 

Equine Exercise Physiology

Equine Exercise Physiology explores the range of short‐term physiological responses and the long‐term physiological adaptations that equine body systems undergo during various intensities of exercise and training. The module considers how this might be used to optimise training for improved performance, delayed fatigue, and a reduced risk of injury.

Equine Nutrition

Explore the horse’s digestive system, their required nutrient intake for different activities and how to manage a horse’s diet.

Research Methods for Equine Science

This module introduces students to research methods and analysis in equine sciences, helping to prepare them for reading research literature and conducting research projects in the future.

Equine Disease

This module covers immunological concepts and pain physiology in the context of equine diseases and disorders, including infectious and contagious conditions and associated biosecurity protocols.

Equine Reproductive Physiology

Students will cover equine reproductive anatomy and physiology concepts and consider how these influence successful management of breeding and non‐breeding horses.

 

Optional Modules 

Animal Microbiology

Animal Microbiology introduces students to a variety of disease-causing microorganisms in animals. This module allows students to examine the interactions between infectious agents and the host, considering the determinations for disease exposure and control.

Equine Musculoskeletal Diagnostics

Students will learn about diagnostic procedures used by vets for common lameness conditions.

International Stud Management

This module allows student to gain an understanding of stud management when breeding Thoroughbreds or Warmbloods, and challenges this involves. The module combines the application of scientific principles to the required decision making and actions during the annual stud cycle.

Introduction to Equine Behaviour

Develop an understanding of behaviour of horses and the neurological pathways resulting in the development of these behaviours.

Introduction to Equine Biomechanics

Introduction to Equine Biomechanics aims to create a solid foundation of understanding of the key biomechanics concepts applied to equine and equestrian examples.

EITHER International Academic Study Project OR International Academic Portfolio

A reflection upon a period of international study.

Placement year (optional)

An optional integrated placement year before your final year allows you to put your knowledge and skills into practice and gain valuable industry experience. Many students get their graduate careers with the organisation with which they completed their work placement.

Level six (final year)

In your final year, contemporary challenges and developments within the field of equine science will feed into the various modules that you take, stimulating you to develop your critical thinking further.

Through optional modules, you can focus on your main areas of interest, which will support you in your future career. The dissertation module will allow you to complete a substantial research project, allowing you to plan, implement and report on a specialist topic.

Compulsory Modules

Undergraduate Dissertation

Carry out independent research and analysis in a related area of your choice.

Developments in Equine Research

Investigate advances in equine research and its application to the equine industry.

 

Optional Modules

Advanced Animal Microbiology

Advanced Animal Microbiology builds on the knowledge and understanding obtained from the Animal Microbiology module at level 5. This module analyses a range of biotechnologies and diagnostics used in the study of animal microbiology, providing students with an in-depth understanding of the underlying principles behind these advanced techniques. Students will evaluate current developments in microbial molecular genetics and how this research is applied to advance treatment and control strategies in veterinary science.

Applied Equine Biomechanics

The Applied Equine Biomechanics module utilises the University’s Rider Performance Centre and biomechanical analysis resources to support students in applying and implementing biomechanical principles and theoretical concepts to practical research and industry scenarios.

Equine Nutrition for Performance

Evolution of feeding strategies to support athletic performance in the horse, whilst maintaining good health.

Equine Sports Medicine

Review and evaluate equine sports injuries and exercise intolerance and associated treatment options.

Equine Therapy and Rehabilitation

This module appraises current research and practice in complementary therapy and rehabilitation for equine orthopaedic conditions.

Pharmacology

Pharmacology covers the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of common drug classes used in veterinary species. The module also examines topics such as resistance and residues, as well as controlled drug prescription, storage and disposal requirements.

Modules

Overview

What you'll study

This degree covers a wide range of equine science topics through compulsory and optional modules, which you'll be able to choose from to suit your interests and career goals.

Core topics will cover anatomy and physiology of the horse, equine health and disease, nutrition, reproduction and genetics, and exercise physiology.

Optional modules will allow you to specialise your degree to suit your interests and career goals. You can attend introductory sessions for optional modules before deciding which ones to study.

Module credits

On successful completion of your modules you’ll gain academic credit that accumulates towards your award. The marks you gain in your second and third years may contribute towards your final degree classification.

Level three foundation year (year one)

Your foundation year will allow you to develop study skills and specific knowledge around biological science. This will support you moving into year one. In addition, you’ll be introduced to equine science and begin to explore the equine industry.

Compulsory Modules 

Academic Literacy for University Studies

Understand and explore topics including the scientific method and enquiry, team working, research skills, and effective time management.

Professional Development in Practice

An opportunity to explore graduate destinations associated with your programme of study, building a portfolio of experiences aiding your professional development. 

Exploring Current Concepts

Develop understanding and knowledge of literature reviews including constructing a rationale and summarising and presenting relevant information to suit a purpose, subject and audience.

Equine Studies

This module introduces central anatomy, physiology, welfare and health that underpin best husbandry and management practices, along with key legislation and health and safety requirements in the equine industry.

Biological Principles for Land-Based Scientists

Study fundamental biological aspects to gain a clear understanding of how organisms come about and how they function and operate for survival and performance.

Level four (year two)

This year will focus on fundamental topics relating to the horse, with an introduction to key topics such as anatomy and veterinary science through to nutrition and the equine industry itself. Each module aims to give you the fundamental skills to study at higher levels and give you practical skills for the future.

Compulsory Modules 

Equine Functional Anatomy

Learn about the biological systems of the horse, how they interact and how they can be managed.

Equine Industry

Discuss the scope and management of the equine industry in the UK and Europe.

Fundamental Skills for the Equine Scientist

Get to grips with the basics of data analysis, key laboratory practices and safety procedures.

Introduction to Equine Nutrition

Study the basic principles of equine feeding and nutrition.

Equine Veterinary Science

Understand the balance between health and disease, and apply management and control theories to practical situations.

Equine Genetics

An introduction to genetics and its role within the equine population.

Level five (year three)

Explore your chosen topic areas in more detail during your second year, applying knowledge you have gained in year one and investigating more complex concepts with the support of your tutors.

Alongside your core modules around topics such as equine nutrition, reproduction, health and disease, and exercise physiology, you’ll start tailoring your degree to individual areas of interest with the use of exciting and varied option modules. For example, you might be interested in exploring areas such as equine behaviour or biomechanics.

Compulsory Modules 

Equine Exercise Physiology

Equine Exercise Physiology explores the range of short‐term physiological responses and the long‐term physiological adaptations that equine body systems undergo during various intensities of exercise and training. The module considers how this might be used to optimise training for improved performance, delayed fatigue, and a reduced risk of injury.

Equine Nutrition

Explore the horse’s digestive system, their required nutrient intake for different activities and how to manage a horse’s diet.

Research Methods for Equine Science

This module introduces students to research methods and analysis in equine sciences, helping to prepare them for reading research literature and conducting research projects in the future.

Equine Disease

This module covers immunological concepts and pain physiology in the context of equine diseases and disorders, including infectious and contagious conditions and associated biosecurity protocols.

Equine Reproductive Physiology

Students will cover equine reproductive anatomy and physiology concepts and consider how these influence successful management of breeding and non‐breeding horses.

 

Optional Modules 

Animal Microbiology

Animal Microbiology introduces students to a variety of disease-causing microorganisms in animals. This module allows students to examine the interactions between infectious agents and the host, considering the determinations for disease exposure and control.

Equine Musculoskeletal Diagnostics

Students will learn about diagnostic procedures used by vets for common lameness conditions.

International Stud Management

This module allows student to gain an understanding of stud management when breeding Thoroughbreds or Warmbloods, and challenges this involves. The module combines the application of scientific principles to the required decision making and actions during the annual stud cycle.

Introduction to Equine Behaviour

Develop an understanding of behaviour of horses and the neurological pathways resulting in the development of these behaviours.

Introduction to Equine Biomechanics

Introduction to Equine Biomechanics aims to create a solid foundation of understanding of the key biomechanics concepts applied to equine and equestrian examples.

EITHER International Academic Study Project OR International Academic Portfolio

A reflection upon a period of international study.

Placement year (optional)/Level six (final year)

Placement year (optional)

An optional integrated placement year before your final year allows you to put your knowledge and skills into practice and gain valuable industry experience. Many students get their graduate careers with the organisation with which they completed their work placement.

Level six (final year)

In your final year, contemporary challenges and developments within the field of equine science will feed into the various modules that you take, stimulating you to develop your critical thinking further.

Through optional modules, you can focus on your main areas of interest, which will support you in your future career. The dissertation module will allow you to complete a substantial research project, allowing you to plan, implement and report on a specialist topic.

Compulsory Modules

Undergraduate Dissertation

Carry out independent research and analysis in a related area of your choice.

Developments in Equine Research

Investigate advances in equine research and its application to the equine industry.

 

Optional Modules

Advanced Animal Microbiology

Advanced Animal Microbiology builds on the knowledge and understanding obtained from the Animal Microbiology module at level 5. This module analyses a range of biotechnologies and diagnostics used in the study of animal microbiology, providing students with an in-depth understanding of the underlying principles behind these advanced techniques. Students will evaluate current developments in microbial molecular genetics and how this research is applied to advance treatment and control strategies in veterinary science.

Applied Equine Biomechanics

The Applied Equine Biomechanics module utilises the University’s Rider Performance Centre and biomechanical analysis resources to support students in applying and implementing biomechanical principles and theoretical concepts to practical research and industry scenarios.

Equine Nutrition for Performance

Evolution of feeding strategies to support athletic performance in the horse, whilst maintaining good health.

Equine Sports Medicine

Review and evaluate equine sports injuries and exercise intolerance and associated treatment options.

Equine Therapy and Rehabilitation

This module appraises current research and practice in complementary therapy and rehabilitation for equine orthopaedic conditions.

Pharmacology

Pharmacology covers the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of common drug classes used in veterinary species. The module also examines topics such as resistance and residues, as well as controlled drug prescription, storage and disposal requirements.

The modules contain a mixture of scheduled learning and independent learning. Scheduled learning can consist of lectures, seminars and practical sessions, allowing for the application of theory in different formats. You'll be expected to dedicate at least two to three hours of independent study per contact hour.

The foundation year includes an internship using Hartpury’s on-site facilities and industry links.

The course is taught in English.

Year Contact learning Independent learning Placement learning
Level three (year one) 24% 76% 0%
Level four (year two) 24% 76% 0%
Level five (year three) 24% 76% 0%
Placement year (optional) 1% 19% 80%
Level six (final year) 18% 82% 0%

You'll be assessed through a mixture of written exams, practical exams and written assignments. Many of the modules will be marked based on a mixture of assessment types, whilst others will be based solely on one type of assessment. Feedback will be given via a mixture of written bullet point-style feedback and/or oral feedback.

Year Written exam Practical exam Coursework
Level three (year one) 24% 38% 38%
Level four (year two) 44% 50% 6%
Level five (year three) 50% 38% 12%
Placement year (optional) 0% 0% 100%
Level six (final year) 19% 31% 50%

Each year of this course is taught over two semesters, normally consisting of 12 weeks of scheduled teaching and then assessment weeks, with an overview below:

  • scheduled teaching takes place between 8:30 to 20:30 Monday to Friday
  • Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities
  • work placements may entail different days and hours
  • part-time students may need to attend learning activities five days each week, depending on modules selected
  • Timetables are available during enrolment week
View term dates

Please visit our student finance page for information on tuition fees and student loans, as well as non-repayable grants, bursaries and scholarships, eligible to different groups, to support with study costs.​

Below, you'll find ​extra costs associat​ed with studying this course.

Clothing and footwear (circa £100)

You’ll need some specialist kit and clothing for the course, such as yard boots, riding hats and gloves to be prepared for your practical sessions. We’ll let you know exactly what you need to bring before enrolment.

Hartpury University branded clothing is also available through our online shop, for those who wish to purchase it. However, this is not essential.

Optional field trips (up to circa £500)

You’ll be encouraged to engage in various trips and visits as part of the course. These are often included as part of the modules. There's also the opportunity to engage in additional study trips, which would incur minimal fees relating to travel and/or expenses.

Optional semester abroad

You'll have the opportunity to take an optional semester abroad in your second year. This will incur additional travel costs.

Accommodation and living costs

Please visit our student accommodation page for details.

Livery

We have stabling for 230 horses on campus. If you're interested in having your horse at Hartpury on DIY livery while you study, please visit our livery page for details and costs.

Equine Academy

If you have the talent and drive to develop your skills as an equestrian athlete alongside your studies, you may be eligible to join our Equine Academy. For further details including costs, please visit our Equine Academy page.

Fees & Finance

Our Resource Library is where you'll find all the essential details about Hartpury University's courses. It includes Programme and Module Specifications, along with Course Information Sheets for every course. You can easily download a complete revision history for each of these, clearly showing the dates changes were made.

Course Information Sheets: These are PDF versions of the course webpages. They provide an overview of the course, what to expect during your studies, and the topics covered.

Programme Specifications: These are detailed, validated documents containing academic specifics for each programme. They include descriptions of the programme, its aims, learning outcomes, year and module structure, as well as teaching, learning, and assessment strategies.

Module Specifications: Each Programme consists of several Modules. Our Module Specifications outline the topics covered and the expected outcomes for students studying each Module.

Resource library

Academies

If you’re playing sport competitively, or you have the talent and drive to do so, you may want to join one of our Sports Academies. Over 200 international athletes have developed their talents with us over the past 10 years. You could be our next success story. We're a semi-professional sports environment offering world-class facilities and professional coaching and support services.

Hartpury College Mens Football Academy

Accommodation

Settle into an accommodation option to suit your taste and budget – at Hartpury University, undergraduate students can choose to live on-campus surrounded by Gloucestershire’s beautiful countryside or off-campus in the heart of Gloucester City centre. Enjoy the best of both worlds.

Hartpury University Accommodation

Finance

We can help you understand how it all works, and what you need to do next. Find out everything you need to know about tuition fees, student loans and bursaries and scholarships. In 2021/22, we provided assistance to over 1/3 of our students through bursaries, scholarships and grants, totalling a little under £1million.

Hartpury University Finance
Gold Gold Gold 01

TEF Gold

Our undergraduate provision has been awarded Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) Gold in all aspects - Overall, Student Experience, and Student Outcomes.

GUG 2025 Top 10 Teaching Quality Landscape

Teaching quality

Ranked in the top 10 universities for teaching quality (The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide, 2025).

Graduate Outcomes Singe Logo (1)

Graduate employability

97% of our graduates are in employment, further study or other purposeful activity (Graduate Outcomes, 2024). 

Nss 2024 Top 10 Academic Support

Academic support

We’re a top 10 university for academic support (NSS 2024, UK universities).

Hartpury University Equine

Become a game changer

World-class equine facilities

Benefit from multi-million-pound equine facilities, used by world-class riders and horses from across the globe.

From research opportunities in our rider performance and hydrotherapy centres, to client-facing positions in our commercial therapy centre, you’ll develop professional skills for the future.

Equine facilities

Success stories

Ellie's story

Success Stories
Ellie's story
Ellie Harrod
“Within the equine industry, Hartpury University is renowned for its fantastic facilities, including the Equine Therapy Centre and is one of the largest equestrian centres in the world, providing a top class education. I knew that when applying for jobs, a degree from Hartpury University would be viewed with high regard.”
Ellie Harrod
BSc (Hons) Equine Science
Clarissa Burnell Price

"Completing my work placement at Hartpury’s summer equine events was a great experience. I learnt how to run events, secure sponsorship deals, organise volunteers, and ensure arenas and stables are ready for competitors. I even got to compete in an event myself. I built contacts and connections with a range of people, including the Hartpury Equine management team, which lead to my role as Yard Technician today."

Clarissa Burnell-Price

"Completing my work placement at Hartpury’s summer equine events was a great experience. I learnt how to run events, secure sponsorship deals, organise volunteers, and ensure arenas and stables are ready for competitors. I even got to compete in an event myself. I built contacts and connections with a range of people, including the Hartpury Equine management team, which lead to my role as Yard Technician today."

Clarissa Burnell-Price

High-performance equine environment

We have an international reputation for equine education. Our students are challenged to reach new heights in their fields.

If you’re passionate, hard-working and motivated to make a difference, we’ll give you the skills and connections to channel this energy into an exciting equine career. Whatever your career aspirations, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to gain experience on and off campus.

Watch via YouTube
Student And Horse In Equine Yard

Meet our academic team

Get to know our dedicated and passionate teaching staff who’ll help you achieve your very best. We’re proud to have been awarded Gold in all three areas of the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF): Overall, Student Experience, and Student Outcomes. This places Hartpury University in the top 15% of published institutions in England. Plus, we're ranked sixth in the UK for Teaching Quality, in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025.

Meet our team

Important information

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of our published course information, however our programmes are reviewed and developed regularly. Changes or cancellation of courses may be necessary to ensure alignment with emerging employment areas, to comply with accrediting body requirements, revisions to subject benchmark statements or as a result of student feedback. We reserve the right to make necessary changes and will notify all offer-holders of changes as and when they occur.

Related courses

Explore our equine degrees
BA International Horseracing Business
Course

BSc (Hons) International Horseracing Business (with Foundation Year)

Study horseracing business with practising industry professionals and gain the experience you need to succeed in the global racing business.

Bsc Hons Equine Performance And Rehabilitation
Course

BSc (Hons) Equine Performance and Rehabilitation (with Foundation Year)

If you’re passionate about maximising equine performance and rehabilitation alongside veterinary and professional teams, then this is the ideal course for you. This degree is also ideal for those looking to combine practical equine skills with a love for science and research.

Bsc Hons Equine Behaviour And Welfare
Course

BSc (Hons) Equine Behaviour and Welfare (with Foundation Year)

If you're passionate about the human-horse relationship from an equine welfare perspective, and want to understand how horses interpret our world to enhance their wellbeing, then this is the ideal course for you. You don’t need to ride horses, you simply need a keen interest in horse behaviour, learning and welfare.

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