Programme Specifications

Equine Studies


1 : Awarding Institution / Body
Aberystwyth University

2a : Teaching Institution / University
Aberystwyth University

2b : Work-based learning (where appropriate)


Information provided by Department of Life Sciences:

N/A



3a : Programme accredited by
Aberystwyth University

3b : Programme approved by
Aberystwyth University

4 : Final Award
Bachelor of Science

5 : Programme title
Equine Studies

6 : UCAS code
D325

7 : QAA Subject Benchmark


Information provided by Department of Life Sciences:



8 : Date of publication


Information provided by Department of Life Sciences:



9 : Educational aims of the programme


Information provided by Department of Life Sciences:

The course aims to provide students with a broad in depth knowledge of some of the common aspects of equine and general animal science.

The more specific aims are:

  • To develop a detailed knowledge and systematic understanding of Equine or Animal Science at the forefront of student’s academic specialism.

  • To develop an holistic view of animal anatomy, physiology and function, and its application to practice.

  • To integrate theory, experiment and investigation into practical horse management.

  • To develop a detailed understanding of animal research, its current practice, applicable techniques, future potential and application to management.

  • To develop an awareness of the legal, moral, ethical and social issues associated with the use of animals for work, leisure and research.

  • To develop a critical and analytical approach in all aspects of study and problem solving, including the ability to deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively and communicate with specialist and non-specialist audience

  • To provide students with the technical knowledge and transferable skills required for a leading career in the field of Equine or Animal Science, including for example, yard/business management, lecturing and advisory work within the field

Subject specific skills

To produce graduates competent to utilize and enhance their existing vocational experience of theoretical knowledge of equine science, business and the commercial industry through further theoretical learning, the design, implementation, and analysis of experiments, and the critical appraisal of information from a variety of sources.

Generic and graduate skills

The following transferable skills will be developed and assessed in the proposed BSc Equine Science degree:

  • Problem solving

  • Research skills

  • Communication

  • Improving own learning and performance

  • Team work

  • Information technology

  • Application of number

  • Personal development and career planning



10 : Intended learning outcomes


Information provided by Department of Life Sciences:

Overall aim of the scheme

The course aims to enhance the broad vocational experience students bring to this course by furthering their in-depth knowledge of some of the common aspects of equine management, industry and science. To produce graduates who are able to work in a range of fields relating to horse management, who can operate efficiently and safely in the commercial industry, are able to communicate and understand data and concepts, are able to utilise specific applied skills to address diverse biological or practical problems, and are able to direct their own research and learning.



10.1 : Knowledge and understanding


Information provided by Department of Life Sciences:

By the end of their programme, all students are expected to be able to demonstrate:

  • A1 The confident assimilation and integration of animal anatomy, physiology and function.

  • A2 The ability to discuss the theoretical and practical application of animal biology to management

  • A3 The ability to critically appraise factors affecting animal health, welfare, growth and development

  • A4 The ability to design and assess correct nutritional provision for animals in relation to performance, growth and development and well-being

  • A5 An in-depth knowledge of reproductive management, breeding, genetics and the application of reproductive technology

  • A5 The ability to make a balanced case, and detail methods for the integration and application of scientific techniques and technology to animal science

  • A6 The capacity to reason the theoretical and practical application of scientific research

Learning and Teaching

Lectures; tutorials; student-led seminars; problem-based learning scenarios and case studies; field excursions and laboratory practicals; literature based research; computer-assisted learning; research leading to a dissertation.

Assessment Strategies and Methods

Written examinations and coursework to include: report writing, essay writing, oral and poster presentations; the submission of a dissertation; assessment based on real life problems.



10.2 : Skills and other attributes


Information provided by Department of Life Sciences:

10.2.1 Intellectual Skills

By the end of their programme, all students are expected to be able to demonstrate:

  • B1 That they can apply the skills needed for academic study and enquiry.

  • B2 The critical evaluation of research methodologies, and a variety of types of information and evidence. Where appropriate, the formulation of new hypotheses based on these evaluations.

  • B3 Critical analysis of information from a number of sources in order to gain a coherent understanding of theory and practice, and an ability to synthesize and summarize the outcomes.

  • B4 That they can apply strategies for appropriate selection of relevant information from a wide source and large body of knowledge.

  • B5 That they can apply knowledge and understanding to address familiar and novel problems.

  • B6 The ability to design an experiment, investigation, survey or other means to test an hypothesis or proposition

Learning and Teaching

Lectures; tutorials; student-led seminars; problem-based learning scenarios and case studies; field excursions, work experience and laboratory practicals; literature based research; computer-assisted learning; research leading to a dissertation.

Assessment Strategies and Methods

Written examinations and coursework to include: report writing, essay writing, oral and poster presentations; the submission of a dissertation; assessment based on real life problems.

10.2.2 Professional practical skills (where applicable)

By the end of their programme, all students are expected to be able to demonstrate:

  • C1 That they can design, apply and evaluate various research/study techniques.

  • C2 That they can plan, conduct, and report on investigations.

  • C3 The ability to collect & record information / data in the library, laboratory or field, summarizing it appropriately.

  • C4 That they can conceive, plan and undertake laboratory investigations in a responsible, ethical and safe manner, paying due attention to risk assessment, animal welfare, relevant health and safety regulations, legislation concerning experimental animal use, legal requirements and sensitivity to the impact of investigations on the environment and personnel.

  • C5 Effective and appropriate communication skills aimed at individuals and organisations in a range of scenarios

  • C6 That they can write for a range of audiences including academics, practitioners, special interest groups and the wider public

  • C7 The application of appropriate management and experimental techniques to a range of situations

Learning and Teaching

Professional practical skills are acquired and promoted through practical lab classes, field visits, lectures, seminars and other class activities, case studies undertaken in a range of real-life situations and experimental research for the dissertation.

Assessment Strategies and Methods

Coursework to include: the submission of scientific reports, oral presentations, research posters and essays. Students are expected to demonstrate advanced critical, interpretative and analytical skills in both their course work and written examinations. The dissertation should demonstrate student competence in practical and academic skills.



10.3 : Transferable/Key skills


Information provided by Department of Life Sciences:

By the end of their programme, all students are expected to be able to demonstrate:

  • D1 Problem solving

  • D2 Research skills

  • D3 Communication

  • D4 Improving own learning and performance

  • D5 Team work

  • D6 Information technology

  • D7 Application of number

  • D8 Personal development and career planning

Learning and Teaching

Transferable/key skills are incorporated within modules and related to relevant assessments as appropriate. Students learn and develop skills through student and tutor-led seminars; problem-based learning scenarios; self-directed learning, oral presentations and experimental dissertation work.

Assessment Strategies and Methods

The skills listed above are assessed using exercise-based and essay assignments, practical laboratory reports, the dissertation project, seminar presentations, unseen examinations essays and unseen short answer examinations.



11 : Program Structures and requirements, levels, modules, credits and awards



BSC Equine Studies [D325]

Academic Year: 2023/2024Top Up scheme - available from 1998/1999

Duration (studying Full-Time): 1 years

Part 2 Rules

Final Year Core (100 Credits)

Compulsory module(s).

Semester 1
BR32500

Equine Stud Management

BR34700

Marketing and Small Business Management

BR35720

Equine Nutrition and Pasture Management

BR36400

Research Project

Semester 2
BR32520

Equine Stud Management

BR34720

Marketing and Small Business Management

BR36440

Research Project

Final Year Options

Choose 20 credits

Semester 2
BR35120

Behaviour and Welfare of Domesticated Animals

BR35220

Equine and Human Exercise Physiology


12 : Support for students and their learning
Every student is allocated a Personal Tutor. Personal Tutors have an important role within the overall framework for supporting students and their personal development at the University. The role is crucial in helping students to identify where they might find support, how and where to seek advice and how to approach support to maximise their student experience. Further support for students and their learning is provided by Information Services and Student Support and Careers Services.

13 : Entry Requirements
Details of entry requirements for the scheme can be found at http://courses.aber.ac.uk

14 : Methods for evaluating and improving the quality and standards of teaching and learning
All taught study schemes are subject to annual monitoring and periodic review, which provide the University with assurance that schemes are meeting their aims, and also identify areas of good practice and disseminate this information in order to enhance the provision.

15 : Regulation of Assessment
Academic Regulations are published as Appendix 2 of the Academic Quality Handbook: https://www.aber.ac.uk/en/aqro/handbook/app-2/.

15.1 : External Examiners
External Examiners fulfill an essential part of the University’s Quality Assurance. Annual reports by External Examiners are considered by Faculties and Academic Board at university level.

16 : Indicators of quality and standards
The Department Quality Audit questionnaire serves as a checklist about the current requirements of the University’s Academic Quality Handbook. The periodic Department Reviews provide an opportunity to evaluate the effectiveness of quality assurance processes and for the University to assure itself that management of quality and standards which are the responsibility of the University as a whole are being delivered successfully.

Equine Studies


1 : Awarding Institution / Body
Aberystwyth University

2a : Teaching Institution / University
Aberystwyth University

2b : Work-based learning (where appropriate)


Information provided by Department of Life Sciences:

N/A



3a : Programme accredited by
Aberystwyth University

3b : Programme approved by
Aberystwyth University

4 : Final Award
Bachelor of Science

5 : Programme title
Equine Studies

6 : UCAS code
D325

7 : QAA Subject Benchmark


Information provided by Department of Life Sciences:



8 : Date of publication


Information provided by Department of Life Sciences:



9 : Educational aims of the programme


Information provided by Department of Life Sciences:

The course aims to provide students with a broad in depth knowledge of some of the common aspects of equine and general animal science.

The more specific aims are:

  • To develop a detailed knowledge and systematic understanding of Equine or Animal Science at the forefront of student’s academic specialism.

  • To develop an holistic view of animal anatomy, physiology and function, and its application to practice.

  • To integrate theory, experiment and investigation into practical horse management.

  • To develop a detailed understanding of animal research, its current practice, applicable techniques, future potential and application to management.

  • To develop an awareness of the legal, moral, ethical and social issues associated with the use of animals for work, leisure and research.

  • To develop a critical and analytical approach in all aspects of study and problem solving, including the ability to deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively and communicate with specialist and non-specialist audience

  • To provide students with the technical knowledge and transferable skills required for a leading career in the field of Equine or Animal Science, including for example, yard/business management, lecturing and advisory work within the field

Subject specific skills

To produce graduates competent to utilize and enhance their existing vocational experience of theoretical knowledge of equine science, business and the commercial industry through further theoretical learning, the design, implementation, and analysis of experiments, and the critical appraisal of information from a variety of sources.

Generic and graduate skills

The following transferable skills will be developed and assessed in the proposed BSc Equine Science degree:

  • Problem solving

  • Research skills

  • Communication

  • Improving own learning and performance

  • Team work

  • Information technology

  • Application of number

  • Personal development and career planning



10 : Intended learning outcomes


Information provided by Department of Life Sciences:

Overall aim of the scheme

The course aims to enhance the broad vocational experience students bring to this course by furthering their in-depth knowledge of some of the common aspects of equine management, industry and science. To produce graduates who are able to work in a range of fields relating to horse management, who can operate efficiently and safely in the commercial industry, are able to communicate and understand data and concepts, are able to utilise specific applied skills to address diverse biological or practical problems, and are able to direct their own research and learning.



10.1 : Knowledge and understanding


Information provided by Department of Life Sciences:

By the end of their programme, all students are expected to be able to demonstrate:

  • A1 The confident assimilation and integration of animal anatomy, physiology and function.

  • A2 The ability to discuss the theoretical and practical application of animal biology to management

  • A3 The ability to critically appraise factors affecting animal health, welfare, growth and development

  • A4 The ability to design and assess correct nutritional provision for animals in relation to performance, growth and development and well-being

  • A5 An in-depth knowledge of reproductive management, breeding, genetics and the application of reproductive technology

  • A5 The ability to make a balanced case, and detail methods for the integration and application of scientific techniques and technology to animal science

  • A6 The capacity to reason the theoretical and practical application of scientific research

Learning and Teaching

Lectures; tutorials; student-led seminars; problem-based learning scenarios and case studies; field excursions and laboratory practicals; literature based research; computer-assisted learning; research leading to a dissertation.

Assessment Strategies and Methods

Written examinations and coursework to include: report writing, essay writing, oral and poster presentations; the submission of a dissertation; assessment based on real life problems.



10.2 : Skills and other attributes


Information provided by Department of Life Sciences:

10.2.1 Intellectual Skills

By the end of their programme, all students are expected to be able to demonstrate:

  • B1 That they can apply the skills needed for academic study and enquiry.

  • B2 The critical evaluation of research methodologies, and a variety of types of information and evidence. Where appropriate, the formulation of new hypotheses based on these evaluations.

  • B3 Critical analysis of information from a number of sources in order to gain a coherent understanding of theory and practice, and an ability to synthesize and summarize the outcomes.

  • B4 That they can apply strategies for appropriate selection of relevant information from a wide source and large body of knowledge.

  • B5 That they can apply knowledge and understanding to address familiar and novel problems.

  • B6 The ability to design an experiment, investigation, survey or other means to test an hypothesis or proposition

Learning and Teaching

Lectures; tutorials; student-led seminars; problem-based learning scenarios and case studies; field excursions, work experience and laboratory practicals; literature based research; computer-assisted learning; research leading to a dissertation.

Assessment Strategies and Methods

Written examinations and coursework to include: report writing, essay writing, oral and poster presentations; the submission of a dissertation; assessment based on real life problems.

10.2.2 Professional practical skills (where applicable)

By the end of their programme, all students are expected to be able to demonstrate:

  • C1 That they can design, apply and evaluate various research/study techniques.

  • C2 That they can plan, conduct, and report on investigations.

  • C3 The ability to collect & record information / data in the library, laboratory or field, summarizing it appropriately.

  • C4 That they can conceive, plan and undertake laboratory investigations in a responsible, ethical and safe manner, paying due attention to risk assessment, animal welfare, relevant health and safety regulations, legislation concerning experimental animal use, legal requirements and sensitivity to the impact of investigations on the environment and personnel.

  • C5 Effective and appropriate communication skills aimed at individuals and organisations in a range of scenarios

  • C6 That they can write for a range of audiences including academics, practitioners, special interest groups and the wider public

  • C7 The application of appropriate management and experimental techniques to a range of situations

Learning and Teaching

Professional practical skills are acquired and promoted through practical lab classes, field visits, lectures, seminars and other class activities, case studies undertaken in a range of real-life situations and experimental research for the dissertation.

Assessment Strategies and Methods

Coursework to include: the submission of scientific reports, oral presentations, research posters and essays. Students are expected to demonstrate advanced critical, interpretative and analytical skills in both their course work and written examinations. The dissertation should demonstrate student competence in practical and academic skills.



10.3 : Transferable/Key skills


Information provided by Department of Life Sciences:

By the end of their programme, all students are expected to be able to demonstrate:

  • D1 Problem solving

  • D2 Research skills

  • D3 Communication

  • D4 Improving own learning and performance

  • D5 Team work

  • D6 Information technology

  • D7 Application of number

  • D8 Personal development and career planning

Learning and Teaching

Transferable/key skills are incorporated within modules and related to relevant assessments as appropriate. Students learn and develop skills through student and tutor-led seminars; problem-based learning scenarios; self-directed learning, oral presentations and experimental dissertation work.

Assessment Strategies and Methods

The skills listed above are assessed using exercise-based and essay assignments, practical laboratory reports, the dissertation project, seminar presentations, unseen examinations essays and unseen short answer examinations.



11 : Program Structures and requirements, levels, modules, credits and awards



BSC Equine Studies [D325]

Academic Year: 2023/2024Top Up scheme - available from 1998/1999

Duration (studying Full-Time): 1 years

Part 2 Rules

Final Year Core (100 Credits)

Compulsory module(s).

Semester 1
BR32500

Equine Stud Management

BR34700

Marketing and Small Business Management

BR35720

Equine Nutrition and Pasture Management

BR36400

Research Project

Semester 2
BR32520

Equine Stud Management

BR34720

Marketing and Small Business Management

BR36440

Research Project

Final Year Options

Choose 20 credits

Semester 2
BR35120

Behaviour and Welfare of Domesticated Animals

BR35220

Equine and Human Exercise Physiology


12 : Support for students and their learning
Every student is allocated a Personal Tutor. Personal Tutors have an important role within the overall framework for supporting students and their personal development at the University. The role is crucial in helping students to identify where they might find support, how and where to seek advice and how to approach support to maximise their student experience. Further support for students and their learning is provided by Information Services and Student Support and Careers Services.

13 : Entry Requirements
Details of entry requirements for the scheme can be found at http://courses.aber.ac.uk

14 : Methods for evaluating and improving the quality and standards of teaching and learning
All taught study schemes are subject to annual monitoring and periodic review, which provide the University with assurance that schemes are meeting their aims, and also identify areas of good practice and disseminate this information in order to enhance the provision.

15 : Regulation of Assessment
Academic Regulations are published as Appendix 2 of the Academic Quality Handbook: https://www.aber.ac.uk/en/aqro/handbook/app-2/.

15.1 : External Examiners
External Examiners fulfill an essential part of the University’s Quality Assurance. Annual reports by External Examiners are considered by Faculties and Academic Board at university level.

16 : Indicators of quality and standards
The Department Quality Audit questionnaire serves as a checklist about the current requirements of the University’s Academic Quality Handbook. The periodic Department Reviews provide an opportunity to evaluate the effectiveness of quality assurance processes and for the University to assure itself that management of quality and standards which are the responsibility of the University as a whole are being delivered successfully.