MSc, Postgraduate Diploma, Postgraduate Certificate Equitation Science
Hartpury University
Student rating
This is the overall rating calculated by averaging all live reviews for this uni on Whatuni.
( 4.3) View reviews

Want to know what it's like to study this course at uni? We've got all the key info, from entry requirements to the modules on offer. If that all sounds good, why not check out reviews from real students or even book onto an upcoming open days?

Different course options
2 options available
academic-cap
Qualification

MSc - Master of Science

location-pin
Location

Hartpury University

beaker
Study mode

Full Time

calendar
Start date

SEP-25

time
Duration

1 year

Course info

Select a course option


Qualification

MSc - Master of Science

Location

Hartpury University

Study mode

Full Time

Start date

SEP-25

Duration

1 year

SELECTED

Qualification

MSc - Master of Science

Location

Hartpury University

Study mode

Part Time

Start date

SEP-25

Duration

2 years

SELECT

Subjects

Select a subject


Agriculture & Forestry
SELECTED

Exam type

Select a an exam type


Location

Select student location


Domestic
SELECTED

EU
SELECT

Rest of World
SELECT

Course info

Course overviewImprove the welfare of horse and rider through ethical decision-making underpinned by the latest scientific research. This course can be studied in CPD module blocks, making it ideal for professionals, or via more traditional academic pathways.World-leading expertsYou’ll learn from leading lecturers and industry experts who are changing the world of equitation science, influencing the development of new ethical policies and practices that challenge the status quo. They will ...Read more

Course overview

Improve the welfare of horse and rider through ethical decision-making underpinned by the latest scientific research. This course can be studied in CPD module blocks, making it ideal for professionals, or via more traditional academic pathways.

World-leading experts

You’ll learn from leading lecturers and industry experts who are changing the world of equitation science, influencing the development of new ethical policies and practices that challenge the status quo. They will support you to make evidence-based assessments of horse and rider welfare in a range of contexts including during training and competition.

World-leading facilities

Combining learning, research and commercial activities, our facilities will enable you to apply theory to practice as part of real-world projects, using the latest technologies. These include 230 horses on campus, an Equine Therapy Centre, Equestrian Centre hosting over 200 events each year, and an Equine Assisted Activities Arena.

Ideal for professional CPD

The course is ideal for graduates and professionals, offering more traditional academic or shorter CPD qualifications. Block module delivery makes it ideal for professionals looking to upskill to help fulfil organisational objectives and missions.

A mix of online and campus delivery, full and part-time options, makes it easy for you to fit your studies around other commitments.

What you'll study

MSc

Focus on the application of equitation science principles in real-world practice. You’ll develop knowledge and understanding of the latest scientific advances surrounding the popular area of horse-human interactions. You’ll investigate the benefits of connection for both parties, developing your ability to promote positive affective states.

Practical sessions and demonstrations will facilitate first-hand experience of the application of equitation scientific theory. Our campus provides the base for a range of learning contexts including humans and horses in therapy, competition and leisure. Through our industry networks, you could also study equestrian services (policing or military uses) and the working equid within developing countries.

Projects recently undertaken have uncovered new welfare understanding of nocturnal behaviour, workload modelling, dietary supplement efficacy, performance parameter assessments and the therapeutic benefits of equine therapy.

Whilst learning how to design and deliver evidence-based welfare assessments for the horse, you’ll appreciate the wellbeing of the human partner. You’ll develop your skills using a multidisciplinary approach to explaining horse training, for example, from a learning theory perspective that removes anthropomorphism and emotion.

Enabling you to engage with and influence the wider equestrian industry, you’ll also be supported to understand proven human behaviour change theories, utilising key psychological principles to change minds and improve national and global practice.

Your dissertation will enable you to research an area of your own interest. In addition to compulsory modules, you’ll select from specialist modules in equine biomechanics and further investigate equestrian research. These modules have been designed to widen your appreciation for the role of the horse in society.

Postgraduate Certificate and Postgraduate Diploma

Studying a postgraduate certificate or diploma is ideal for those who want to complete a specific part of this master’s degree, without the academic research (see module section for details of topics included). You’ll have the option to top-up your qualification to a full master’s degree on completion.

Key stats

WUSCA ranking:
WUSCA student ranking
These are the 2024 rankings, based on ratings given by past and current students.
74/101
CUG Subject Ranking
CUG Subject Ranking
Source: Complete University Guide 2025
12th
What students say
K
Kate
02 Mar 24

VERY HELPFUL TUTORS WHO PUT A LOT OF EFFORT INTO SUPPORTING STUDIES. Interesting and world leading programme with a mix of practical and theory. Support as I am a long distance..Read more

N
Natalie
22 Feb 23

The facilities for equestrian study are outstanding. I chose to study here based on those and the expertise of the lecturers and staff at the university. The support given..Read more

Modules

Modules (Year 1)
IDP Connect

Entry requirements

Students need a 2:1 honours degree in a relevant subject. Students with 2:2 and relevant experience will be considered on a case by case basis. Students with non-relevant qualifications but with sufficient work experience or professional experience will be considered on an individual basis.

Tuition fees

Students living in

Domestic

£11,000 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from Domestic

This is the fee you pay if the University is in the same country that you live in (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)

This is the fee you pay if the University is in the same country that you live in (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)

£18,750 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from EU

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from somewhere in the EU.

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from somewhere in the EU.

£18,750 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from International

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from a country outside the EU.

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from a country outside the EU.

IDP Connect

Latest reviews

Latest Horse Training reviews

Horse Training
Horse Training
K
Kate
02 Mar 24
MSc, Postgraduate Diploma, Postgraduate Certificate Equitation Science
VERY HELPFUL TUTORS WHO PUT A LOT OF EFFORT INTO SUPPORTING STUDIES. Interesting and world leading programme with a mix of practical and theory. Support as I am a long distance...
Read more
N
Natalie
22 Feb 23
MSc, Postgraduate Diploma, Postgraduate Certificate Equitation Science
The facilities for equestrian study are outstanding. I chose to study here based on those and the expertise of the lecturers and staff at the university. The support given...
Read more
Review breakdown
University rating
University rating
Students' union
Societies and Sports
University halls
Facilities
Lecturers and teaching quality
Local life
Career prospects
Student support
Location
Campus look and feel
Student life
Course rating
Course content
Work placements and internships
Tutor contact time
Subject facilities
University location
Cost of living
Safety
Public transport
Part-time work opportunities
Graduate employment opportunities
Diversity
Location
Safety
Room allocation
Internet/wifi
Value for money
Property management

How Horse Training students rated:

Student rating
( 4.8) 4 reviews
5 star
75%
4 stars
25%
3 stars
0%
2 stars
0%
1 star
0%

How all students rated:

Student rating
( 4.3) 1,769 reviews
5 star
41%
4 stars
47%
3 stars
11%
2 stars
1%
1 star
0%
Search reviews that mention

Uni info

Hartpury University
Hartpury University , Gloucester

Based in Gloucestershire, in the heart of England’s countryside, Hartpury University is a specialist provider of agriculture,...

Student rating
( 4.3) View reviews
Hartpury University
Hartpury House Gloucester Gloucestershire GL19 3BE United Kingdom
Nearest train station: Gloucester  2.5 miles away

Similar courses at this uni

Find a course

  • Undergraduate
  • HND / HNC
  • Foundation degree
  • Access & foundation
  • Postgraduate