Course description
Further your knowledge and understanding of horse behaviour, health and welfare management with our practical, hands-on degree at ARU in Writtle.
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.
Upcoming start dates
Suitability - Who should attend?
For information on admission requirements, please contact the provider.
Training Course Content
Year One
Core modules
- Equine Anatomy and Physiology (15 credits)
- Equine Practical Skills (15 credits)
- Equine Health Management (15 credits)
- Equine Nutrition (15 credits)
- Breeding and Foaling (15 credits)
- Saddle Fit and Farriery (15 credits)
- Introduction to Psychology and Welfare (30 credits)
Year Two
Core modules
- Research Methods (15 credits)
- Business Skills (15 credits)
- Equine Health and Disease (15 credits)
- Equine Cognition and Training (15 credits)
- Measuring Behaviour and Welfare (15 credits)
- Biological Basis of Equine Behaviour (30 credits)
Optional modules
- Young Horse Production (15 credits)
- Equitation and Coaching (15 credits)
Year Three
Core modules
- Capstone Project (30 credits)
- Behavioural Wellbeing (15 credits)
- Equitation Science (15 credits)
- Applied and Clinical Equine Nutrition (15 credits)
- Current Issues in the Equine Industry (15 credits)
- Applied Training and Behaviour Modification (30 credits)
Course delivery details
- BSc (Hons) | 3 Years or 4 Years with a Foundation Year
- CertHE | 1 Year
- DipHE | 2 Years
Modules are subject to change and availability.
Assessment
We'll assess your progress in a number of ways including practical assessments (including yard skills), essays, technical reports, case studies, video assessments, experimental work and write-ups, poster presentations, oral presentations, role play, exams (both multiple choice and essay questions), and a dissertation.
Why choose Writtle University College
Ranked Top University-Sector Institution in East Anglia for overall student satisfaction!
*Based on NSS 2022 Based on Taught Data
Beautiful rural campus situated close to the city of Chelmsford, 40 minutes from London and the coast.
Expenses
- UK student fees - £9250 per year
- International student fees – £15,900 per year
Continuing Studies
Careers
As a graduate of our BSc (Hons) Equine Behaviour Science degree, you'll have the scientific knowledge and skills to pursue a career as an equine behaviour consultant. You will also be able to apply for professional membership of the International Association of Animal Behaviour Consultants (IAABC), which offers ongoing support, mentorship and CPD opportunities as you progress in your career.
As well as working as an equine behaviour consultant, you could consider a career in training rehabilitation or as a:
- research assistant in equine or biological sciences
- nutritionist
- scientific journalist
- lecturer
- welfare assessor/advisor
- police horse trainer
- advisor to governing bodies
- charity advisor.
Graduation doesn't have to be the end of your time with us. You might decide to at ARU and study for a Masters, such as our MSc Equine Performance Science.
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Welcome to Writtle College! Writtle College, a further education provider, now part of ARU, is located at the ARU Writtle campus on the outskirts of Chelmsford, Essex. We offer a wide range of exciting courses in land-based, creative and sports...