Equine Performance and Therapies (Top Up)

BSc (Hons)

Study mode Part time

Location Moulton

Level Level 6

Start date Sep 2023

Duration 2 years

Awarding body University of Northampton

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If your ambition is to gain a role within equine therapies, this course will set you on the right path. Our BSc(Hons) Equine Performance and Therapies Top Up course is designed to develop your knowledge of the principles of equine therapies, within the context of the equine industry as a whole, but specialising in the area of equine rehabilitation and therapy. This is a top-up year to top-up a Foundation Degree of Higher National Diploma to a full BSc(Hons).

Learning in our state-of-the-art equine centre, one of the leading hydrotherapy centres in the UK, this degree will allow you to delve in detail into the range of different therapies practised in the country. Under the guidance of our expert tutors you will gain theoretical and practical knowledge of the equine industry which can be applied to a wide variety of sectors.

Central to this degree is the training, performance and rehabilitation of the equine athlete. Through practical learning you will gain an understanding in performance analysis and therapy equipment. Guided by our expert lecturers you will also develop an understanding of Equine anatomy, physiology, veterinary science and nutrition. You’ll learn topics including gait analysis, measuring behaviour and observing and developing therapeutic techniques. You’ll also access our fully equipped biosciences lab for dissection and microscope work.

For information about course fees please refer to our Fees and Financial Support pages.

The course is assessed through a rage of assessments including written assignments, poster presentations, seminar presentations, portfolios, exams and project work. The course is mostly assessed through individual assessments, but elements of group work may be incorporated to bring in a real-world learning experience. At Level 6 you are also required to complete a dissertation project.

Our variety of assessment methods, providing students with an increased chance of success, have been commended by external examiners.

After graduating you could move into a number of equine-related positions, such as an equine welfare officer or nutritionist, sales manager or rehabilitation assistant. You would be able to work in a variety of roles at one of the many equine charitable organisations such as the British Horse Society, Blue Cross or the more local organisation Ride High in Milton Keynes. The IT and Changemaker skills you will hone throughout the course could lead into project management roles or posts such as veterinary administration. Should you decide to continue with your studies, you could work towards a Master’s degree in Animal Physiotherapy, Chiropractic or Osteopathy in order to become a fully qualified, practicing therapist. However, you may diversify into other areas by studying a Master’s or PGCE if interested in lecturing.

You will have completed a relevant level five qualification including foundation degree or HND. Each application will be assessed on the curriculum content of the current qualification to decide on its suitability in relation to the top-up degree.

Please note that for the welfare of our horses there is a 13 stone weight limit for riding.