Course Aim

The Foundation Degree (FdSc) in Equine Management, validated by the University of Ulster, is unique within Ireland. The course aims to produce motivated graduates with practical and managerial skills, to enable them to make sound judgements in all aspects of managing an equine enterprise. Students on the FdSc in Equine Management have the opportunity, through the emphasis on ‘learning by doing,’ to acquire a wide range of practical equine skills, develop an understanding of the principles of good husbandry practices and gain valuable work experience within the industry. The Foundation Degree in Equine Management has been developed in consultation with the equine industry, to meet their needs. The course gives students an academic qualification as well as developing their practical skills.

Course content

Students will undertake core subjects and select optional subjects depending on their specialisation.

Level 1

• Anatomy and physiology
• Breeding and stud practices
• Equine industry awareness
• Equine facilities management
• Horse management practice
• Introduction to biological science
• Introduction to business management

Options

• Equitation
• Horse Racing Industry

Level 2

• Animal health
• Applied Investigative Project Work Placement
• Principles of horse management
• Work placement

Options

• Behaviour and rehabilitation
• Improving business opportunities
• Young stock production / Equitation and training techniques

Entry requirements

'A' Level

100 tariff points, equivalent to one ‘A’ level pass, plus three GCSE subjects at Grade C including English or equivalent.

Irish Leaving Certificate

100 UCAS points equivalent, including two Grade C1s at Higher level or equivalent.

National Diploma

A National Diploma in an appropriate subject with at least one Merit for example Pass Merit Pass.

Additional qualifications

During the course, students may have the opportunity to achieve additional, nationally recognised qualifications, to complement their Foundation Degree, which can give a competitive advantage in employment or career progression. These qualifications include:

• British Horse Society Exams
• NVQ Level 2 & 3 Award in Racehorse Care and/or Level 3 in Breeding
• Basic Health & Safety Certificate;
• Emergency First Aid
• European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL)

Careers

Students will take up posts in the Sport, Racing and Breeding sectors of the industry. Career options include equine business owners / managers, technical advisers, sales representatives and a range of jobs in the service and related industries.