Course Overview
If you're passionate about equine science and want to learn about the structure, diet, behaviour and rehabilitation of horses, then this course is ideal for you.
The course will help you gain detailed academic knowledge and an understanding of equine science, supporting you to progress into higher education or prepare you for an exciting career in the equine industry.
You'll study a total of 15 different units over the two-year course, delivered through theory-based lessons in the classroom and laboratories, as well as practical sessions where you can put theory into practice.
6 GCSEs at grade 6 or above to include English, Mathematics and Science
There's a range of interesting units to study which are equine and science-related topics, giving you the knowledge and confidence needed to pursue a range of equine careers. Here's some of what you'll study*:
Equine Function at Cellular Level
Have you ever wondered how horses are able to grow and reproduce? In this unit, you'll discover how cells are structured, cellular activities and the response to the needs of the equine, as well as the impact of genetics in equine growth and reproduction.
Practical Skills in Animal Science
You'll learn how to apply scientific theory in order to safely plan and carry out experiments as well as report on investigations in bacterial growth, chemical movements and essential chemistry.
Equine Structure, Form and Function
In this unit, you'll be able to gain essential knowledge of the equine structure, form and function. This includes the study of equine movement and the equine musculoskeletal system.
Other units include Equine Diet and Nutrition, Equine Behaviour, Horse Fitness and Managing an Equine Yard.
*Modules are subject to change in line with student, industry and research demands.
As part of this course, you'll complete a period of work experience at an external placement throughout the year. You'll also have the exciting opportunity to assist in the running of our commercial equine competitions. These popular competitions attract competitors, sponsors and spectators from around the world.
Whether you need the skills and knowledge to step into a successful career within the equine industry, or the qualification to progress into higher education, this course will support you in achieving your career goals.
Our equine students have enjoyed exceptional work placements, helping them open doors to fantastic careers in a wide range of industries.
Course Overview
Course information
If you're passionate about equine science and want to learn about the structure, diet, behaviour and rehabilitation of horses, then this course is ideal for you.
The course will help you gain detailed academic knowledge and an understanding of equine science, supporting you to progress into higher education or prepare you for an exciting career in the equine industry.
You'll study a total of 15 different units over the two-year course, delivered through theory-based lessons in the classroom and laboratories, as well as practical sessions where you can put theory into practice.
Entry requirements
6 GCSEs at grade 6 or above to include English, Mathematics and Science
What you'll study
There's a range of interesting units to study which are equine and science-related topics, giving you the knowledge and confidence needed to pursue a range of equine careers. Here's some of what you'll study*:
Equine Function at Cellular Level
Have you ever wondered how horses are able to grow and reproduce? In this unit, you'll discover how cells are structured, cellular activities and the response to the needs of the equine, as well as the impact of genetics in equine growth and reproduction.
Practical Skills in Animal Science
You'll learn how to apply scientific theory in order to safely plan and carry out experiments as well as report on investigations in bacterial growth, chemical movements and essential chemistry.
Equine Structure, Form and Function
In this unit, you'll be able to gain essential knowledge of the equine structure, form and function. This includes the study of equine movement and the equine musculoskeletal system.
Other units include Equine Diet and Nutrition, Equine Behaviour, Horse Fitness and Managing an Equine Yard.
*Modules are subject to change in line with student, industry and research demands.
Career opportunities
As part of this course, you'll complete a period of work experience at an external placement throughout the year. You'll also have the exciting opportunity to assist in the running of our commercial equine competitions. These popular competitions attract competitors, sponsors and spectators from around the world.
Whether you need the skills and knowledge to step into a successful career within the equine industry, or the qualification to progress into higher education, this course will support you in achieving your career goals.
Our equine students have enjoyed exceptional work placements, helping them open doors to fantastic careers in a wide range of industries.
Why study Equine at Hartpury College?
Hartpury’s world-class equine facilities are used not only for formal learning but also for work experience, including at our own commercial Equine Therapy Centre and in our events department, supporting our international showpiece events and other high quality competitions, with the chance to work with some of the stars of the equine world. Many students also complete work placements out in industry, including at top yards and riding centres and in marketing and commercial roles.
Why study Equine at Hartpury College?
Hartpury’s world-class equine facilities are used not only for formal learning but also for work experience, including at our own commercial Equine Therapy Centre and in our events department, supporting our international showpiece events and other high quality competitions, with the chance to work with some of the stars of the equine world. Many students also complete work placements out in industry, including at top yards and riding centres and in marketing and commercial roles.
Outstanding
Rated 'Ofsted Outstanding in all areas' for academic and curriculum-related provision
99.8% pass-rate
With a BTEC pass rate of 99.8% (Hartpury College 2024), our outcomes for students are exceptional.
Living in on-site college accommodation at Hartpury, you’ll be part of a vibrant and international community of students of all ages who share their experience of life at college and university together on one campus.
The Hartpury Certificate is an enrichment programme designed to support our students to grow.
A-levels or a diploma?
Are you unsure about whether A-levels or a BTEC Diploma are the right choice for you? Find out the key differences and which qualification would best suit your learning style and your career and further study ambitions on our dedicated page.
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Level 3 Extended Diploma Equine Management (Equitation)
This course is for students who want to develop the theoretical and practical skills to work with horses in the equine industry. Our students have regular yard duties, including weekends. It’s therefore compulsory to live in Hartpury accommodation during your studies. You’ll complete internal work experience to develop your skills in a workplace setting.
Level 3 Foundation Diploma Equine Management (Equitation)
This course is for students who want to develop the theoretical and practical skills to work with horses in the equine industry. Our students have regular yard duties, including weekends. It’s therefore compulsory to live in Hartpury accommodation during your studies. You’ll complete internal work experience to develop your skills in a workplace setting.
Level 3 Diploma Equine Management (Equitation)
This is a progression course for students who have successfully completed the Level 3 Extended Certificate course at Hartpury College. Develop the theoretical and practical skills to work in the equine industry. You'll have regular yard duties, including weekends. It’s therefore compulsory to live in Hartpury accommodation during your studies. You’ll complete internal work experience as well as an external block during your course.
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