Writtle University College and ARU have merged. Writtle’s full range of college, degree, postgraduate and short courses will still be delivered on the Writtle campus. See our guide to finding Writtle information on this site.

BSc (Hons), CertHE, DipHE Equine Behavioural Science

How to apply Come to an Open Day

Introduction

Further your knowledge and understanding of horse behaviour, health and welfare management with our practical, hands-on degree at ARU in Writtle.

As a student here you’ll study specialist behaviour modules and use your knowledge to analyse and evaluate all areas of horsemanship, such as training, nutrition and welfare management.

You’ll be based in the Equine Training and Development Centre, which offers extensive facilities including a working stable yard, riding arenas and an equine therapy barn. There are around 70 horses on campus, and you’re able to bring your own horse to university too: find out more about our DIY Livery Yard.

Our course team includes industry-experienced staff and practitioners in equine rehabilitation, behaviour, nutrition and breeding, as well as competition riders and UKCC coaches.

We also work with the International Association of Animal Behaviour Consultants (IAABC) to bring you specialist tuition from renowned equine behavioural scientists. When you graduate, you’ll be able to apply for professional membership of the IAABC and receive ongoing support throughout your career.

Course options

Course options

Key facts

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Entry requirements

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Fees and paying for university

Equine Academy: support for talented riders

The Equine Academy at ARU Writtle supports a group of competition-level riders every year. It offers training sessions for the rider, stabling for the horse, and access to our equine facilities and experienced support staff.

Find out more about eligibility and how to apply.

Facilities

Hands-on learning

Study with ARU Writtle and benefit from:

  • dedicated Equine Training and Development Centre on our Cow Watering Campus
  • working stable yard, with around 70 horses on campus
  • indoor and outdoor riding arenas
  • oval horse walker
  • therapy barn
  • 150-hectare campus with grazing and space for events
  • DIY Livery Yard for students' horses.

Outstanding student support

Join our student community and:

  • learn from experienced tutors, who'll provide encouragement and feedback
  • make full use of facilities including extensive library and IT resources
  • access support, should you need it, with study skills, careers advice, health and wellbeing, and more.

Careers

As a graduate of our BSc (Hons) Equine Behaviour Science degree, you'll have the scientific knowledge and skills to pursue a career as an equine behaviour consultant. You will also be able to apply for professional membership of the International Association of Animal Behaviour Consultants (IAABC), which offers ongoing support, mentorship and CPD opportunities as you progress in your career.

As well as working as an equine behaviour consultant, you could consider a career in training rehabilitation or as a:

  • research assistant in equine or biological sciences
  • nutritionist
  • scientific journalist
  • lecturer
  • welfare assessor/advisor
  • police horse trainer
  • advisor to governing bodies
  • charity advisor.

Graduation doesn't have to be the end of your time with us. You might decide to at ARU and study for a Masters, such as our MSc Equine Performance Science.

Apply now for BSc (Hons), CertHE, DipHE Equine Behavioural Science

Want to talk to someone?

Do you have a question that we haven't answered so far? Talk to our application experts. You can also ask our Student Ambassadors about life at ARU.

We're here Monday-Thursday 9am-5pm (please note we close at 3.30pm on the first and third Thursday of the month for staff training), and Friday 9am-4.30pm.

Life in Writtle

Close to major cities, ARU Writtle is located on a picturesque 150-hectare campus in the heart of the Essex countryside.

Explore the Writtle campus

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