Equine Performance, Health and Welfare MRes; MSc
About this course
Take the reins of your future and transform your passion for horses and science with our dynamic suite of postgraduate courses, designed to deepen your understanding of equine health, performance and welfare in the context of human-horse interactions. As the equestrian industry evolves, there’s a growing demand for professionals with advanced theoretical knowledge and strong research skills – this programme provides exactly that.
Whether you’re looking to specialise in equine nutrition, behaviour, welfare, exercise physiology, health or, or reproduction, you’ll have the flexibility to tailor your studies to your specific interests. With a curriculum designed to bridge science and practical application, you’ll graduate equipped with the expertise to drive innovation and make a real impact in the equestrian world.
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Our equine facilities include a research arena, floodlit outdoor riding arena, indoor school, a horse walker, round pen, a dedicated performance analysis room with mechanical horse and a variety of equine housing systems including, traditional style stabling, American-barn housing and crew yards. -
Specialist research equipment includes heart rate monitors, GPS equipment, Qualisys motion capture system, Dartfish Pro Suite, Tekscan pressure mapping, Flir thermal camera, infrared camera system, Observer behavioural analysis software and mobile eye tracking systems. -
Our international research links provide opportunities and scope for a wide range of research projects both in the UK and abroad. -
97% of postgraduate taught students in the School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences would recommend studying at NTU (PTES 2024).
What you’ll study
Embark on an educational journey with our suite of courses – unrivalled across the UK. Dive deep into the latest advancements in equine health and disease, sports horse nutrition, behaviour, ethics, exercise physiology, equitation science, and reproduction. Each facet is meticulously curated to elevate equine performance, health, and welfare to new heights.
You’ll explore the most pressing issues shaping the equine world today, critically analysing the latest scientific insights and applying them to real-world contexts. Dive deep into the philosophical, ethical and legal challenges surrounding equine welfare, adeptly scrutinise them within a practical framework, all whilst gaining hands-on experience with research that makes a lasting impact. With expert supervision, your research project serves as a platform to cultivate and pursue your own research passions and find your niche in equine science, investigating the topics that matter most to you.
For those looking to take their expertise even further, our MRes courses offer the opportunity to specialise in equine performance or health and welfare. You will refine your analytical skills, enhance your ability to conduct high-level scientific research and present your findings at the pinnacle of scientific rigor, effectively communicating them to diverse audiences.
Equine Health
(20 credit points)
This module integrates recent advances in equine genetics, immunology, epidemiology and nutrition with current knowledge on the prevention of disease and sickness, in order to safeguard equine welfare. The topics covered include:
- clinical and applied nutrition
- immunology
- parasitology and microbiology
- equine genetic disease, and immunogenetics
- global disease factors
- aetiology and epidemiology of equine diseases
Equestrian Performance
(40 credit points)
Critically evaluate recent developments in the area of exercise physiology, injury and rehabilitation, in relation to performance horse management and welfare. A strong component of this module is the practical application of research tools to the measurement of performance. The topics covered include:
- equitation science
- biomechanics
- exercise physiology
- evaluation of the nutritional management of the performance horse
- assessment of fitness and performance for both horse and rider
- rehabilitation of the equine athlete
Ethics and Consultation
(20 credit points)
Explore ethical aspects of the modern horse-human relationship within the context of recent advances in animal welfare philosophy. Review the ethical and legal implications of advising and consulting within the horse industry in a professional capacity. The topics covered include:
- moral philosophy
- animal welfare and ethics
- cultural and social influences of attitudes to animals
- regulation of animal welfare (in statutory and regulatory organisations)
- the use of the horse in sport, production, research, and as a companion
- consultation, human behaviour change, knowledge dissemination, and legal implications
Ethology and Welfare
(20 credit points)
Evaluate the behaviour and management of the domestic horse (Equus Caballus) from a comparative ethological perspective. Compare the members of the Equidae and related species, taking account of habitat, ecological niche and patterns of behaviour. Evaluate methods of recording behaviour, and apply findings to the management and behaviour of the domestic horse. Review theoretical and practical methods of evaluating welfare, and apply them to a variety of situations, including stabled horses and those used in conversation projects. The topics covered include:
- diversity of Equidae and related species
- behavioural ecology
- methods of recording behaviour
- behaviour patterns in free-ranging and domestic species
- equine perception and cognition
- practical and theoretical aspects of welfare assessment
Research Methods and Data Analysis
(20 credit points)
Learn advanced skills in the interpretation of quantitative and qualitative research data relevant to whole-organism biology, and develop a critical understanding of the ethical considerations involved in the collection of data. You'll present your findings and research in a variety of ways, as well as critically evaluating, interpreting and relaying knowledge gained from secondary sources, to peers.
Research Project
(MRes 120 credit points, MSc 60 credit points)
Research in depth a chosen topic area related to equine performance, health, or welfare. Design and implement a relevant research project or equivalent technical or professional enquiry, with a strong aspect of originality. Communicate the findings to an informed audience in a comprehensive scientific report.
Our Equine Performance, Health and Welfare courses are offered as two Masters degrees (MSc and MRes)
MSc
The MSc comprises a taught programme of five modules and a research project.
MRes
The MRes offers two or three taught modules (depending on your specialism), and the opportunity to undertake an extended research project. You can choose to specialise in either equine performance, or equine health and welfare.
| Modules | MSc Equine Performance, Health and Welfare | MRes Equine Health and Welfare | MRes Equine Performance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Research Methods and Data Analysis | Included | Included | Included |
| Ethics and Consultation | Included | Optional* | Not included |
| Ethology and Welfare | Included | Optional* | Not included |
| Equine Health | Included | Included | Not included |
| Equestrian Performance | Included | Not included | Included |
| Research Project | Included | Included | Included |
*Choose one of the optional modules
We regularly review and update our course content based on student and employer feedback, ensuring that all of our courses remain current and relevant. This may result in changes to module content or module availability in future years.
Don’t just take our word for it, hear from our students themselves
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How you're taught
Experience a dynamic and immersive learning journey with our expert-led teaching approach combining of lectures, seminars, hands-on practical sessions, and project-based work. You’ll not only build your theoretical knowledge but also gain valuable real-world experience by presenting your research to peers and esteemed academic staff – preparing you for success in the equine industry.
Independent learning is at the heart of our courses. You’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself into a subject you’re passionate about, conducting high-quality research for your Masters awards. From conceptualisation to execution, you'll craft and execute a pertinent research project, culminating in the meticulous communication of findings through a comprehensive scientific report.
What truly sets this course apart is the unrivalled access to our British Horse Society-approved Equestrian Centre - a premier facility with an international-size indoor and floodlit outdoor riding arena, a dedicated research arena, a performance analysis room featuring a mechanical horse, a horse walker, round pen, group housing pens, and a range of equine housing systems, from traditional stabling to American-barn style and crew yards. Plus, you'll have access to state-of-the-art laboratory and teaching facilities, ensuring you graduate with cutting-edge expertise.
A diverse range of assessment methods is used to develop and evaluate a wide spectrum of skills, knowledge, and understanding. These include approaches such as exams, oral presentations, hands-on practical tasks, live demonstrations, in-depth research projects, scientific report writing, and collaborative group work—ensuring you are challenged, supported, and prepared from every angle.
With world-class facilities and an industry-driven curriculum, this course equips you with the knowledge, skills, and experience to excel in the equine sector.
Please note that field trip locations may vary and are subject to availability and change.
Careers and employability
The course will provide you with the professional skills, experience and knowledge necessary to pursue a wide range of careers within the area of equine science and health and welfare. Potential positions and fields include:
- research assistant in animal or biological sciences
- nutritionist
- medical marketing and sales
- scientific journalist
- lecturer
- equine consultancy
- rehabilitation
- equine behaviourist.
92% of our postgraduates from the School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences are in work or further study within 15 months of finishing their degrees (of those available for work or study, latest Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021/22).
In particular students wishing to pursue the MRes course may continue their career in research.
Research project: UK or abroad
Postgraduate students can undertake a research project in a chosen area of interest. This can be undertaken at Brackenhurst campus or elsewhere in the UK or abroad.
The School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences has many excellent links to partner organisations, conservation and welfare projects and academic institutions across the world. Because of our reputation, we’ve got some incredible global connections. Some of our industry and academic partners include:
- World Horse Welfare
- Fitzpatrick Referrals
- University of Guelph
- Swiss National Stud
- Newmarket Equine Hospital
Current research activity includes:
- performance analysis of horse and rider
- assessing ridden behaviour
- monitoring activity patterns
- assessing feeding behaviour
- welfare.
Re:search Re:imagined
To us, research is about more than writing papers and proposing new ideas. By daring to think differently, we’re disrupting the research landscape and finding the answers to the questions that really matter. From conservation management to sustainable farming, we’re inspiring the brightest minds to rise up and find solutions to some of the most significant global challenges facing society.
NTU Enterprise
You'll also have the opportunity to turn your ideas into a viable business with help from NTU Enterprise, NTU's purpose-built Centre for Entrepreneurship and Enterprise, a support centre to help students create, develop and grow their own businesses.
Campus and facilities
As a dedicated home for our animal, rural and environmental science courses, the Brackenhurst Campus has a character all of its own. From the population of almost 2,000 students and staff to the animals themselves — cats and cattle, sheep and horses — it’s all about community. Relax with a coffee in the Orangery; kick back with your coursemates in the Brack Bar; enjoy the peace and quiet of our Victorian walled garden or Eco-Library; grab a pal and wander through 500 acres of stunning countryside.
The Equestrian Centre and its many facilities at Brackenhurst campus are essential resources for the students studying on equine courses here at Nottingham Trent University.
Mary King Arena
The Equestrian Centre's indoor riding arena was re-launched by six-time Olympian Mary King. This is a 60 x 40 metre with a Prowax sand riding surface which includes a seating gallery area capable of seating 279 people for events or observing training and research. Indoor Cross Country jumps are available as well as a full range of show jumps. The Mary King Arena is effectively used for research, allowing horses to be loose schooled and our camera system records both training and research that can then be analysed using various software for both staff and student use.
Outdoor Riding School
60 x 40 metre with waxed sand and fibre surface, enclosed by fencing and fully floodlit with a full range of show jumps. We also have three permanent cross country fences that interlink onto a grass area to allow for cross country training.
Research Arena
This is a 40 x 20 metres waxed sand surface which is fully enclosed by seven-foot fencing to allow loose schooling. Observation holes in the fence allow staff and students to observe the horse(s) from outside the arena to reduce any influence on natural behaviour.
Stabling
The Equestrian Centre boosts a variety of housing for stabling the horses ranging from individual stabling in American barns to crew yards and pens. The varied housing allows for research and ensures the students experience a range of stabling options.
Park Hill
Park Hill is located a short drive away from our main Equestrian Centre and is home to five semi-feral ponies that are re-homed from Bransby Horses Rescue and Welfare Centre. The facility has grazing paddocks with field shelters, a round pen and an all-weather surface area for working with the horses. The horses housed at Park Hill are used extensively for research and also teaching within horse human relationships and working horses from the ground modules.
Equine Centre Classroom
Seats 24 and has fully installed audio visual equipment.
Livery
Stabling for over 30 DIY student liveries that includes use of the Equestrian Centre facilities.
Performance Analysis Room
Houses mechanical horse, iJoy Ride, Balimo Chair, Tekscan Pressure testing equipment and mirrors, all of which are utilised for clinics and workshops.
Technical Room
Computer equipment for student use during project work including use of research software such as Observer, OnTrack and Dartfish. This room can also be used for downloading data from cameras, heart rate monitors, mobile eye and other data collecting equipment.
And much more...
- Cross Country schooling paddock
- Horse walker
- Round pens for lunging/research
- Stocks and solarium
- Washbox
- Project rooms for staff and student research
- Large lecture rooms complete with A/V equipment located in the Bramley building
- Laboratory facilities located in the Bramley building and Veterinary Nursing Unit.
Our Brackenhurst Campus sits on the doorstep of Southwell: a picture-perfect market town filled with rustic pubs, cosy cafés, and boutique shops. A little further afield, and served by reliable buses that run late into the night, you’ve got Nottingham — one of Britain’s top 10 student cities, and one of Europe’s top 25. It’s stuffed with history, culture, and well-kept secrets to discover at your leisure: enjoy lush green spaces, galleries, hidden cinemas and vintage shopping by day, and an acclaimed food, drink and social scene by night.
Entry requirements
UK students
- MRes: A minimum of a 2:1 or equivalent honours biological sciences degree.
- MSc: A minimum of a 2:2 or equivalent honours biological sciences degree.
We specify these minimum entry requirements, but we will assess you individually on your ability to benefit from the course. We sometimes offer places on the basis of non-standard entry qualifications, and industrial or professional experience.
Additional requirements for UK students
There are no additional requirements for this course.
Other qualifications and experience
We welcome applications from students with non-standard qualifications and learning backgrounds and work experience. We consider credit transfer, vocational and professional qualifications, and any work or life experience you may have.
You can view our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy which outlines the process and options available, such as recognising experiential learning and credit transfer.
Getting in touch
If you need more help or information, get in touch through our enquiry form.
International students
Academic entry requirements:
- MRes: A minimum of a 2:1 or equivalent honours biological sciences degree.
- MSc: A minimum of a 2:2 or equivalent honours biological sciences degree.
We specify these minimum entry requirements, but we will assess you individually on your ability to benefit from the course. We sometimes offer places on the basis of non-standard entry qualifications, and industrial or professional experience.
We accept equivalent qualifications from all over the world. Please check your international qualifications on our international entry requirements page.
English language requirements: See our English language requirements page for requirements for your subject and information on alternative tests and Pre-sessional English.
Additional requirements for international students
There are no additional requirements for this course.
English language requirements
View our English language requirements for all courses, including alternative English language tests and country qualifications accepted by the University.
If you need help achieving the language requirements, we offer a Pre-Sessional English for Academic Purposes course on our City campus which is an intensive preparation course for academic study at NTU.
Other qualifications and experience
We welcome applications from students with non-standard qualifications and learning backgrounds and work experience. We consider credit transfer, vocational and professional qualifications, and any work or life experience you may have.
You can view our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy which outlines the process and options available, such as recognising experiential learning and credit transfer.
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Getting in touch
If you need advice about studying at NTU as an international student or how to apply, our international webpages are a great place to start. If you have any questions about your study options, your international qualifications, experience, grades or other results, please get in touch through our enquiry form. Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world.
Policies
We strive to make our admissions procedures as fair and clear as possible. To find out more about how we make offers, visit our admissions policies page.
