BSc (Hons) Equine Science and Business (Top-up)

The research project is an integral part of the course, the successful completion of which leads to the BSc (Hons) classification. You can choose to focus on either science or business and you could also see your research project featured in one of the many prestigious academic journals that regularly publish our students’ work.

Timetables

Please note that while we make every effort to ensure that timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled teaching can take place on any day of the week. Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and societies activities.

Modules

Each module is worth a specified number of credits. Each credit equates to 10 hours of total study time. Total study time includes scheduled teaching, independent study and assessment activity.

To achieve the award of BSc (Hons) in Equine Science and Business, a student must achieve a minimum of 120 credits. For this BSc (Hons) Top-up course, your grade is calculated entirely on this course's modules.

The modules available for this degree are shown below. They may change for your year of study as we regularly review our module offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

• 6M001 Research Project: This module enables students to undertake an independent research project aligned with their subject area. Topics are student-selected and supported through supervisor meetings and workshops. Assessment includes a 5-minute progress presentation and a 12,000-word thesis or multimedia portfolio. The module supports critical evaluation, ethical research design, and evidence-based recommendations for real-world challenges
• 6Q001 Advances in Equine Nutrition: This module explores recent developments in equine nutrition, including digestive physiology, microbial activity, and sustainable feed ingredients. Topics include nutrient absorption, gut health, and diet formulation for different equids. Students engage with journal clubs and lab-based digestion studies. Assessment includes a 2000-word article critique and a scientific poster presentation. The module supports critical evaluation of equine diets, health, and sustainability in feed production.
• 6Q004 Equine Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation: This module explores equine orthopaedic disease, injury prevention, and rehabilitation. Topics include diagnostic imaging, discipline-specific injuries, physiotherapy, and treatment strategies. Students engage with case studies, lab sessions, and hospital visits. Assessment includes a 2500-word knowledge summary and a scientific poster presentation. The module supports critical evaluation of equine musculoskeletal health and evidence-based rehabilitation practices.
• 6B006 Rural Entrepreneurship: This module develops the skills needed to launch sustainable rural ventures. Students explore idea generation, business modelling, market analysis, financial planning, and ethical considerations. A study tour and guest lectures provide real-world insight. Assessment includes a 10-minute recorded pitch presentation and a 3000-word business plan. The module supports entrepreneurial thinking, strategic planning, and the creation of viable rural enterprises.

PLUS your choice of ONE elective selected from:

• 6Q002 Advances in Equine Training and Performance: This module examines contemporary training methods and technologies to optimise equine performance. Topics include biomechanics, welfare, tack innovations, and regulatory frameworks. Students engage with guest lectures, debates, and research analysis. Assessment includes a 1500-word article for a lay audience and a 2-hour seen exam. The module supports critical evaluation of training strategies and evidence-based approaches to equine athletic development.
• 6B001 Changing Consumer Behaviour: This module explores how individuals and societies consume, and how behaviour can be influenced toward sustainability. Drawing on psychology, sociology, anthropology, and consumer culture, students critically assess marketing strategies and behavioural interventions. Topics include ethical consumerism, identity, technology, and globalisation. Assessment includes a 1600-word annotated bibliography and a 2400-word essay. The module supports understanding and shaping consumer behaviour for positive social and environmental impact.
• 6A005 Advanced Livestock Nutrition and Breeding: This module investigates sustainable breeding and nutrition strategies across livestock species. Topics include genomic selection, reproductive technologies, feed innovations, and precision nutrition. Students engage with field visits, seminars, and practicals. Assessment includes a 2500-word breeding improvement plan and a 1000-word nutrition problem sheet. The module supports critical evaluation of livestock systems and data-driven solutions for animal health and productivity.

The availability of electives to individual students will be dependent on timetabling considerations and on sufficient students electing to take part.

Disclaimer information

The University has established various rules and regulations that you must agree to and follow if you accept an offer to study with us. View our full disclaimer notice.

• Research scientist
• Stud manager
• Brand manager
• Technical sales representative
• Trainer
• Event manager
• Nutritional advisor

"The highlight I experienced on my course was our trip to Newmarket, as it made me realise how many different job opportunities there are within the equestrian industry. It made me realise I wanted to work in racing! I am now Business Co-ordinator for Bath Racecourse."

Emily Dinning, Graduate

Typical offers

• A foundation degree or an HND award in a related subject, achieving 240 credits overall and gained in the last five years
• Depending on previous studies, you may be required to complete additional ‘bridging’ studies prior to enrolling on the Honours course in order to cover identified gaps in previous learning

Flexible entry

The University welcomes interest from applicants who may not have the standard entry requirements. A wide range of qualifications and experience are accepted in order to join University degree programmes. The University always considers evidence of personal, professional (APL) and educational experience, (APEL), which show an ability to meet the demands of their intended programme of study.

Further information

Read more general information about our entry requirements.

International students will also need to achieve IELTS Academic or equivalent at the appropriate level for your programme of study. English language requirements for international students.

For any further help, please contact our admissions team:  

• Email: admissions@rau.ac.uk
• Telephone: +44 (0)1285 889912

2026-27 Applicants

For the academic year 2026-27 the tuition fees for this course are: 

*Tuition fee level for 2025-26. Tuition fees for home undergraduate students in 2026-27 will be confirmed by the Government later in 2025 and will be updated on our website as soon as the information becomes available.

For part-time study, please contact admissions@rau.ac.uk for further information.

Please also refer to the funding your time at university page.

Tuition fees may be subject to an inflationary increase each year as set out in our Access and Participation Plan and are subject to Government and regulatory body conditions.

If you are an Irish national you can check if you meet the requirements for Home Fees. Please visit the UKCISA website and consult the pdf guide “England HE – who pays Home Fees”. First check category ‘3 years in Republic of Ireland/UK/Islands, settled in UK’ or ‘Brexit temporary offer for courses starting before 2028: Irish citizens with residence in Europe or overseas territories’. You will possibly need to be fee assessed when you submit an application for study to the RAU.

Scholarships

The University offers a wide range of generous fee waivers and bursaries. To find out more about the these, please visit the bursaries, awards and scholarships page.