BSc (Hons) Equine Science · OBUBachelor's degree · Duration varies
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Oxford Brookes University · Undergraduate

BSc (Hons) Equine Science Bachelor's degree at Oxford Brookes University

BSc (Hons) Equine Science at OBU. Oxford Brookes University's BSc (Hons) in Equine Science, delivered by the Department of Biological and Medical Sciences, blends rigorous biological science with practical application to equine health, behaviour and management.

BSc (Hons)
Award
Years
Part-time
Study mode
Oxford Campus
Location

About this course

Equine Science, BSc (Hons) degree course by the Department of Biological and Medical Sciences at Oxford Brookes University From the provider’s course page.

BSc (Hons) Equine Science is a Bachelor's degree (BSc (Hons)) at OBU, based in Oxford Campus. It is studied part-time; duration varies by route.

For the typical curriculum, specialisations, career paths and graduate earnings for Agriculture & Animal Science, see the sections below.

Curriculum & modules

Real modules published for this course, grouped only where the source gives a year, stage or level.

Year 1 6 modules
  • Academic and Professional SkillsCompulsory
    Module details

    Transferable skills are an asset in the careers world. In this module, you'll be introduced to academic practice and professional skills that will aid you in your career progression. These will include the soft skills of discussion, debate, seminar, and presenting, alongside science writing, researching and statistics. You'll also go into detail on the use of Microsoft packages such as Word Excel, PowerPoint and Publisher. Statistical programmes such as MiniTab will also be covered.

  • Equine Anatomy and PhysiologyCompulsory
    Module details

    You'll equip yourself with biological knowledge of the horse, taking a close-up look at the anatomy and physiology. You'll analyse cell and biochemical reactions that sustain life, plus the functioning and anatomy of the body's organs and their interactions with each other. In addition, you'll look at the evolution of the horse and adaptations to the structural systems, exploring the unique athleticism of the equine stature. These basic foundational concepts will form the building blocks of your

  • Equine BusinessCompulsory
    Module details

    There has been no better time to investigate the impact of the equine business trade. The equine industry generates significant revenue for global economies. In this module, you'll look at the external and competitive environment of business and the common frameworks for analysing and evaluating the impact of such on both individual businesses and industries. You'll also gain an insight into the internal functionings of business (marketing, human resource management, and finance), followed by an

  • The Global Equine IndustryCompulsory
    Module details

    In this module, you'll explore the history and development of the modern equine and Thoroughbred industries in their national and international context. You'll examine how equestrianism has developed and grown internationally, and how it is important to the economies of many countries. You'll learn how the industries are administered, operated and financed, and you'll examine the present industry status within a diverse range of cultures. You'll cover business supported by equestrianism, associa

  • Equine Behaviour and CognitionCompulsory
    Module details

    Do you ever wonder what a horse is thinking? In this module, you can get a step closer to understanding how a horse's brain functions. You'll gain an insight into evolution, underpinning the aspects of the horse's flight response and how it is used/suppressed in domestic situations. You'll discover the theory behind how horses remember things and create memories. You'll also investigate the differentiation between breed characteristics, the varied disciplines that horses are involved in, and how

    Assessment: multiple choice questions (MCQ), a short presentation and a report

  • Applied Equine HealthCompulsory
    Module details

    In order to maintain a healthy horse who is capable of competitive success, you'll need knowledge of the equine immunity pathways, the invading pathogens, wounds and emergency first aid. In this module, you'll learn about just that. You'll acquire the skills to employ suitable treatment regimes using your scientific knowledge and your ability to adapt to new situations. Identifying a horse for lameness and applying appropriate first aid is an essential part of handling and working in the industr

Year 2 4 modules
  • Research MethodsCompulsory
    Module details

    You'll get to grips with research concepts used within Equine Science, enabling you to develop a critical approach to research, and the ability to explore associated philosophical, methodological, analytical, statistical and ethical issues. You'll equip yourself with the fundamental concepts and practices that underpin the research process including research design, literature critique and critical analysis of research. You'll be given the opportunity to develop your own research proposal, devel

  • Equestrian Land and Resource Management 1Compulsory
    Module details

    On completion of this module, you'll have a good understanding of the importance of soil and grass science in relation to the effective management of land for horses, and how grassland management affects equine health and performance. You'll also investigate specific areas of management that are important in ensuring the success of a wide range of equine enterprises, with a particular emphasis on human resources. You'll also consider the legislative and regulatory frameworks under which equine e

  • Equine Medicine and Veterinary TechniquesCompulsory
    Module details

    Get in the know on how to maintain a horse at optimum health and performance. In this module you'll gain a full insight into the scientific principles underlying health and disease in the horse. You'll also develop a detailed knowledge of relevant veterinary techniques used in the assessment, diagnosis, and management of equine disease. On completion of this module, you'll be able to assess and evaluate the role of the veterinary surgeon in the diagnosis of ill health/injury and treatment of dis

  • Equine NutritionCompulsory
    Module details

    What are the key nutritional elements that a horse needs to remain at optimum health? In this informative module you'll gain an in-depth knowledge of the metabolic processes that occur in a horses's body. This will help you identify nutritional needs for improving and maintaining the performance of the horse. You'll also learn how to adapt and apply your knowledge to optimise the feeding regimes of horses for their long-term success. You'll identify the principles relating to the correct feeding

Source: provider course page. Modules can change; required/optional status, credits, descriptions and assessment are shown only when explicitly published.

Course in depth

What this course covers, who it suits and where it leads.

What you'll study

This BSc (Hons) Equine Science degree is taught by Oxford Brookes' Department of Biological and Medical Sciences. A course like this typically moves from foundational animal and crop science in Year 1, grounded in hands-on husbandry and farm skills, through intermediate modules in nutrition, health and grassland management. You'll usually encounter data and technology in agriculture during the second year. In Year 3, you'll progress to specialist options such as livestock production, equine science, agronomy, animal behaviour and welfare, agri-tech and farm placements, alongside farm business management and a dissertation or industry project. The emphasis remains practical and applied throughout.

Who it's for

This course suits you if you have a genuine interest in horse science and are ready for serious, discipline-based study rather than hobby-level engagement. You should be comfortable with laboratory work, data analysis and field-based research. Part-time study here demands time management and sustained motivation, you'll juggle academic rigour with other commitments. The course appeals to those seeking a deeper understanding of equine physiology, behaviour and management, and to people already working in the sector who want formal qualification without leaving their jobs.

Careers & job market

Across Agriculture & Animal Science courses nationally, 90% of graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of graduating. Of those working, 40% move into highly skilled roles or continue studying. Graduate earnings nationally (15 months after graduating) typically fall between £22,000 and £27,000; after five years, £22,525–£31,800. Career paths include veterinary nursing, stud management, equine welfare roles and research positions, though specific earnings and progression vary by role and employer.

University & format

Oxford Brookes University is a public university in Oxford. The BSc (Hons) Equine Science is delivered part-time and taught in English. Oxford Brookes is a recognised UK degree-awarding body, so degrees are nationally recognised. The university holds Bronze for teaching quality in the Office for Students' TEF 2023.

Applicant information

The next application dates for this course, followed by facts the provider publishes.

2027 entry deadlineApply directly to the provider

Part-time application dates vary by provider. UCAS dates

PlacementPublished placement option

Placement year. Availability, selection and pay can vary.

Open daysAttend an open day or webinar

See and book current events. Dates can fill or change.

2026 entryLive availability check

Opened 2 July 2026; last choice 19 October 2026. Check vacancies now. A cached page never claims a place is still available.

Entry & how to get in

Entry requirements are set by the universityGrades, subjects and contextual offers vary. Check OBU's official course page for the current offer.

Entry & your chances

An honest read from the official entry data, plus your personal match.

Offer-based entry

Entry is set by the university and based on your offer. Use your predicted grades to see how you compare, then check the university's stated requirements.

How to apply

Undergraduate applications go through UCAS. Here’s what matters for this course, the right deadline, the grades to aim for, and the steps in order.

Apply byApply directly to the providerfor this course
UCAS codeD322quote this on your application
  1. 1
    Register on UCAS Hub

    Create your UCAS application and add this course (code D322). One application covers up to five choices.

  2. 2
    Write your personal statement

    A single statement covers all your choices, so keep it broad enough for similar courses while showing genuine interest in this subject.

  3. 3
    Submit by Apply directly to the provider

    Part-time application dates vary by provider. Source: UCAS 2027 dates.

  4. 4
    Reply to your offers

    When decisions are in, pick a firm (first) choice and an insurance (back-up) choice with slightly lower grades.

  5. 5
    Results day & confirmation

    On results day (mid-August) your place is confirmed if you meet the offer. Just missed? Talk to the university, or find a place through Clearing.

💡 Many universities make a contextual (reduced-grade) offer, for example based on your school’s results, time in care, or where you live. Ask OBU whether you’re eligible before you apply; it can lower the grades you need.

Fees & funding

What this course costs and how UK student finance covers it.

Tuition per year

Homeup to £9,790 / yr
International£18,250 / yr

Provider fee page (England 2026/27 cap where not stated).

Check fees at OBU →

For students who normally live in England

illustrative Maintenance Loan per year
Check providertuition used per year, no published course home fee, total not estimated
total borrowing, course length not published

2026/27 Student Finance England figures. Maintenance support is means-tested and this two-point view is not an entitlement calculator. The course total uses its published length and home fee where both are available; a missing full-time fee uses the clearly labelled England-cap scenario, while part-time fees and unknown lengths are never guessed. Use the official calculator. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland use separate systems: SAAS, Student Finance Wales, and Student Finance NI.

Starting on or after 1 January 2027?

The Lifelong Learning Entitlement is a separate system. A new learner’s tuition entitlement is currently stated as £39,160 (about 480 credits at 2026/27 fee levels), subject to prior study and eligibility. Check the official LLE guide.

Paying for it

  • Tuition Fee Loan: can cover eligible tuition up to the applicable limit and is paid straight to the provider.
  • Maintenance Loan: up to £10,830/yr away from home outside London (England, 2026/27), means-tested on household income.
  • Repayment: 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below it; written off after 40 years.
  • Earn alongside: most students work part-time in term, part-time roles on the StudySmarter job board.

England figures shown; Scotland, Wales & NI run their own schemes, check gov.uk.

Funding matched to this course

Scholarships & bursaries you could qualify for

All OBU funding →
No verified named award is shown for this provider yet.

That does not mean no funding exists. Check the university directory for current amounts, eligibility and application dates.

We only display a named award when its provider source identifies the award and who it is for.

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Career quizApplication walkthroughSalary & CV check

Careers & earnings

What Agriculture & Animal Science graduates actually earn, from real outcome data, 15 months, 3 years and 5 years after graduating.

  1. 1Graduate roleFirst role after the degree · 0–2 yrs
  2. 2Specialist / PractitionerWorking in agriculture & animal science · 2–5 yrs
  3. 3Senior / LeadLeading work and people · 5–10 yrs
  4. 4Head of / ExpertSenior leadership or deep expertise · 10+ yrs

How pay grows: this course vs Agriculture & Animal Science nationally

Starting (15 months) HESA GO
£22,000 – £27,000
After 3 years LEO
£17,850 – £25,200
After 5 years LEO
£22,525 – £31,800
national rangeaxis £16,500 – £33,000

National figures for Agriculture & Animal Science graduates, HESA Graduate Outcomes (15 months) and the Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) dataset (3 & 5 years). These are national, not university-specific; actual pay varies by employer, region, role and experience. Different cohorts, so the bars are not one group over time.

Work out your pay

Headline figures hide a lot. Calculate realistic take-home pay for this field by role, region and experience, then check your CV before you apply.

Job market & outlook

How Agriculture & Animal Science graduates fare in the labour market, and how AI is reshaping the work.

90%
in work or further study 15 months after graduating, across Agriculture & Animal Science courses nationally.
Graduate Outcomes
40%
of working graduates are in highly skilled work or further study.
highly skilled
85%
of students continue past their first year (still enrolled or completed).
continuation

How AI is changing the work

AI doesn't replace the profession, it shifts it: routine tasks get automated, while judgement, working with people and using AI well become more valuable.

What AI takes off your plate

  • Routine information gathering
  • First-draft writing and summaries
  • Standard analysis and admin
  • Repetitive processing tasks

More human than ever

  • Judgement and original thinking
  • Working with and leading people
  • Owning and sense-checking AI output
  • Ethics and accountability

The strongest graduates pair subject depth with the ability to use AI tools critically.

Roles & employers

Where Agriculture & Animal Science graduates typically go, indicative destinations from graduate career data. Each role links to live openings on the StudySmarter job board.

Where they work

  • Agribusiness & food producers
  • DEFRA & agencies
  • Estates & farms
  • Animal & wildlife charities

Who studies here and in this subject?

Provider- and UK subject-level context.

Oxford Brookes University

All students26,095
International11.3%
Aged 25+50.1%

Agriculture, food and related studies across the UK

Students17,960
Aged 25+33.3%

HESA student record 2024/25. Counts are rounded.

Local crime-data context

A neutral snapshot around the published teaching location.

Around Oxford Campus

900 street-level reports returned within roughly one mile across 2026-04 to 2026-06.

Violent Crime 317Shoplifting 102Anti Social Behaviour 85Other Theft 74Public Order 67

Police.uk street-level API. Approximate locations, not confined to campus. England, Wales and Northern Ireland; not Scotland.

Is Agriculture & Animal Science right for you?

Tick what applies to you and see how good a fit it is.

International students

What applying to OBU from outside the UK involves: fees, English, visa, funding and living costs.

Tuition fees

International tuition is £18,250 / year for this course (from the provider’s fee page). You’re not eligible for UK Tuition Fee or Maintenance Loans, so plan for fees plus living costs upfront.

English language

Most UK undergraduate courses ask for around IELTS 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0), or an accepted equivalent. If you’re just short, most universities run a pre-sessional English course that counts towards the requirement.

Student visa

You’ll usually need a Student visa (Student Route). After you accept an offer the university issues a CAS; you then show funds for fees plus about £1,023–£1,334/month living costs and pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for NHS access.

Scholarships & funding

Many universities offer international/global scholarships (often £2,000–£6,000/yr), check OBU’s funding pages.

Living costs

Budget roughly £1,100–£1,400/month outside London and £1,400–£1,800/month in London for rent, food and travel; the figure also matters for your visa.

Working while you study

A Student visa usually allows up to 20 hours/week in term time and full-time in holidays, useful alongside study, though not something to rely on for fees.

Visa rules and fees change. Always confirm the current requirements with OBU and gov.uk before you apply.

Common questions

Set by OBU. Check the university's course page for the exact offer.
See the career and earnings data for Agriculture & Animal Science below (national Graduate Outcomes / LEO figures).
For comparison, the standard full-time England tuition cap is up to £9,790 per year in 2026/27; the actual fee varies by course and provider. If you normally live in England, eligible students can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan, plus a Maintenance Loan for living costs. Under Plan 5 you repay 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below that, and the balance is written off after 40 years. See Fees & funding on this page to work out your numbers.
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