Overview

This foundation year pathway provides an alternative route into degree-level study. It’s ideal for those who need to gain subject-specific knowledge and skills in order to progress onto the full BSc qualification.

Focusing on performance, you’ll explore training techniques and consider how external influences like coaching or injury could affect success. You’ll apply what you learn to real-world scenarios using our on-site commercial facilities, including a dedicated rider performance centre, equine therapy centre and human performance laboratory.

In your first year of the Equestrian Sports Science (with Foundation Year) (Hons) course from Hartpury College you’ll study how the bodies of both the horse and rider function, developing your expertise in human and equine anatomy and biomechanics. You’ll also explore how to enhance performance, looking at psychology, as well as the benefits of fitness training and conditioning.

As you progress you’ll have the option to tailor your study based on the direction you want to focus your career. Choose from a diverse range of modules, building on the knowledge gained in year one. You could look at how important correct equine nutrition is, or further explore the techniques behind returning horses to full fitness through therapy.

If your interests lie with the rider, you could look into the significance of fitness training and testing, or understand the science behind behaviour and the mind, assessing how this affects performance. You may also choose to take a sports science-focused route, looking at nutrition or therapy, for example.

Industry opportunities

The optional sandwich year on this degree will give you the opportunity to gain valuable industry experience. You could also take part in our exchange programme, studying a semester of your degree in the USA.

Graduate destinations

Career options are diverse and you could choose to move into the equine science or sports science industries.

Graduates have recently progressed into:

• British Horseracing Authority Graduate Scheme, and then into a career in racing

• Equine Lecturer at Hadlow College

• Marketing Assistant at British Dressage

• Sales at KBIS British Equestrian Insurance

• Postgraduate Education

• Logistics at Hawkeye Ltd.