Course overview

This is the ideal postgraduate course for those who want to integrate advanced science with the field of equine behaviour and welfare. You’ll apply theory to practice in a supported setting, while developing new expertise to advance your knowledge and career.

Key to the course is optimising horse welfare through understanding the associations between behavioural and management strategies, as well as health and performance within the domestic horse.

You’ll benefit from world-class technologies including a well-renowned equine therapy and rehabilitation centre that’s leading the way in related research.

Alongside this, you’ll be encouraged to attend academic and industry conferences and engage with communities of practice to enhance your learning and professional network, including those hosted at Hartpury.

Our outstanding arenas host over 100 events each year, attracting leading equestrian athletes from across the world. We’re also home to over 230 horses and riders in our livery centre, spanning all levels, from novice to semi-professional.

This master’s-level qualification is a recognised qualification in its own right, but upon successful completion, you’ll also have the option to progress on to our Postgraduate Diploma or MSc in Equine Science, where you’ll be able to select from a diverse range of equine behaviour and welfare modules to suit your interests and career goals.

What you'll study

The focus of this programme is on developing your understanding of the role that human actions and management systems have on the horse’s behaviour.

You’ll be encouraged to evaluate human, horse and management system interactions, whilst tailoring the focus of your projects and modules to suit your interests and career goals.

You’ll have opportunities to gain first-hand experience of advanced technologies at Hartpury, including gait analysis and electromyography equipment, as well as riding simulators used to assess rider influence on horse performance – some of our simulators are among the most advanced in the world at an educational institution.

Developing this bespoke expertise will be valuable for your career performance and progression.

On successful course completion, you may be eligible to further specialise your learning and development, by progressing onto our Postgraduate Diploma or MSc in Equine Science, selecting from a diverse range of equestrian performance modules, as well as others to suit your interests. Please visit the MSc Equine Science course page to find out more.

How you'll study

We're committed to supporting you to fulfil your unique potential while you're here so that you can achieve your personal and professional goals.