Course overview

This course is ideal for those who want to integrate advanced science with high-level equine performance. Applying theory to practice in the real world, you’ll learn how to maximise equestrian athletic performance, aiding the selection of performance horses and extending successful careers.

You’ll benefit from world-class technologies including well-renowned equine therapy and rider performance centres that are 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 competition facilities host over 100 events each year, many at international level, attracting leading equestrian athletes from across the world. We’re home to over 230 horses and riders in our livery centre, many training to be equestrian athletes as part of our Equine Academy.

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

What you'll study

The focus of this programme is on optimising, maintaining, enhancing and restoring the performance of equestrian athletes.

Through specialist modules, you’ll develop your ability to understand and evaluate the interaction between the physiology of exercise and the principles behind rehabilitating the sports horse.

In addition, you’ll be given the opportunity to either further investigate the riders impact on the exercising horse or to critically review a subject of your choosing that aligns with the aims of the programme and your own aspirations.

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. Upon successful completion of the course, you may be eligible to specialise your learning and development further, 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.

Graduate destinations

Whether you have already defined your career goals or you’re keen to explore your options, these programmes provide opportunities to develop both the specialist and transferable skills needed for a range of graduate careers. Our teaching staff, professionals on campus and careers team are available to provide expert advice and guidance, as required.

Applicants should have at least a lower second class (2:2) honours degree in a relevant subject. Students with non-relevant qualifications but with sufficient work experience or professional experience will be considered on an individual basis.