www.aber.ac.

uk/en/ibers

Equine Courses

Welcome
Welcome to our brochure on equine courses at
Aberystwyth. Inside you will see that we have put
together an overview of all the equine related
courses that you can study with us, but for much
more detail please visit our website at www.aber.
ac.uk/en/ibers
We have also provided a glimpse of what our
Institute has to offer you in terms of resources
and facilities, of how wonderful the town of
Aberystwyth is, of how beautiful its surrounding
countryside is and of how much our students
enjoy studying this noble animal in such a safe and
inspiring environment. But be warned, it isnt as
good as looks.... its better!
As you read through the brochure you may not
appreciate that we have been teaching and
preparing graduates for the equine industry for
over 40 years and are the oldest higher education
provider of equine courses in the country. You will
see that we now provide a whole range of exciting
courses from Foundation Degree (FDSc) to Master

of Science (MSc) and, should you wish to, you can

also study for your MPhil or PhD with us.
Each course is specifically designed to equip you
with the knowledge, confidence and skills to work
in a whole host of jobs both within the equine
industry and many related enterprises. Whilst we
are confident this brochure will help you decide
which is the right course to set you out on your
career path, before deciding we would strongly
encourage you to visit us and get a real taste of
what studying an exciting course in a stunning
location will feel like. Be careful though, once you
arrive you may not want to leave!

Contents
In addition to its excellent resources, our
Institute has an international reputation not
only for its research, but also for teaching in a
variety of vocational and applied courses. Many
of our staff are at the forefront of their fields
with world renowned reputations, but far more
importantly, they enjoy teaching people like
you! Dont take our word for it, come and see
for yourself and ask our current students what
life in Aberystwyth is really like.
We hope you enjoy the brochure and that
you find the course that suits you, but please
remember that if you have any queries at all
do contact us and we will try our very best to
help you.
The Equine Team

Studying equine courses at Aberystwyth...............2

Which level of course is right for me?.......................4
Our courses
Equine Studies (Foundation Degree)...................6
Equine Studies (BSc, 1 year follow-on
course)................................................................................8
Equine Science (BSc)...................................................10
Equine and Veterinary Bioscience (BSc)...........12
Animal Science (BSc)...................................................14
Visits, fieldwork and study tours...........................16
Postgraduate courses ................................................18
About IBERS............................................................................19
Graduate profiles.................................................................20
Student life at Aberystwyth..........................................22
How to apply..........................................................................24

The information contained in this booklet is correct at the time

of going to press (May 2015) but no guarantee can be given
that it will not be amended before the commencement of, or
during the course to which it refers. Such amendments, if any,
will be made in accordance with any statement of reservations
that is set out in the Aberystwyth University Prospectus.

Enquiries to:
Undergraduate Admissions Tutor
Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences
Aberystwyth University
Penglais Campus
Aberystwyth
Ceredigion SY23 3DA

Tel: +44 (0)1970 621904

E-mail: ibers-admissions@aber.ac.uk
Web: www.aber.ac.uk/en/ibers

Studying

equine courses
at Aberystwyth?

Our facilities

Our staff

At Aberystwyth you will find superb resources set in

a stunning location. Not only do we have world-class
facilities, but you will find that you get to use them!
As a student you will make frequent use of these
facilities both as part of your studies and during your
research and leisure activities. The importance of
your surroundings should not be overlooked, since
the quality of the learning environment and culture
impacts massively upon your studies. If you can visit
us take a look at our:

Any course is only as good as the staff who teach

on it! At Aberystwyth you will come into contact
with some of the best in the business. Many have
an international reputation with regard to research,
others have a background of working in the
industry and all are dedicated to providing highquality education and training. Our lecturers are
passionate teachers too, with years of experience of
communicating the science of the horse and so be
assured, we are here to help you in your studies and
are very approachable and friendly. But dont take our
word for it, come and visit us, talk to us about what
we can do to help you in your studies and judge for
yourself!

State-of-the-art laboratories and equipment

Inspirational research facilities
Stunning indoor school and equestrian centre
Superb livery facilities for your own horse
Excellent library and computing facilities
National Library of Wales located just metres from
the campus
In excess of 1,000ha of some of the best farmland
in west Wales
Miles of unspoilt beaches and countryside for
riding and walking
Cross country course, exercise pen and horse
walker
Specialist equine research unit

Students collecting data for their dissertation

Our location

86% of
Aberystwyth
students were in
employment
and/or
further study
6 months after
graduation.

Where you choose to study will have a huge impact upon your motivation,
well-being and ultimately your career success. Aberystwyth University
immerses you in a learning culture encased in a stunning location and
served with a massive sprinkle of fun and enjoyment. Your time at
university is not all about reading for a degree, as important as that is, but is
about growing into yourself and developing a knowledge and thirst for life.
At Aberystwyth we have:
A beautiful vibrant seaside
town within walking distance
of your accommodation

Nature reserves on your

doorstep and a backdrop of
the Cambrian Mountains

A world renowned Arts Centre

on campus

Cardigan Bay with its

bottlenose dolphins

Three national parks within

close reach

A multicultural cosmopolitan
environment

Fabulous sports and leisure

facilities for all sports on land,
sea and air!

Purpose-built high quality

accommodation to relax and
recuperate in

One of the safest places to be

a student in the UK

Beaches within metres of

student accommodation

Our employability success

If you wish to have a successful career be it through
further studies after your first degree or entering
employment immediately after graduation, which
university is on your CV matters. At Aberystwyth we
have a long and successful history of our students
finding satisfying and fulfilling employment (see
page 20), some of which include:
Veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses
Equine physiotherapists
Nutritionists and research officers
Lecturers and teachers
Research scientists
Journalists and welfare inspectors
Equine therapists
Business consultants and owners
Stud managers and the bloodstock agents
Instructors, yard managers and managers in
racing and competition yards

Which level of

course

is right for me?

We deliver a wide variety of

levels of course with clear
progression routes between
them. You can start on a
Foundation Degree and
end up with a PhD. It has
happened!

Level 0
Students who do not have the academic
qualifications, experience or the
scientific knowledge to gain a place on
one of our science courses can start on
a Life Sciences course with us and on
successful completion of year one, they
can transfer into the first year of one of
our other courses.

Foundation Degree in Equine

Studies
This two-year course provides excellent
training in equine studies. It also
provides an excellent entry route onto
a full honours BSc degree for those who
do not have the initial qualifications
for standard honours BSc entry, or for
those that want to ensure that have a
solid vocational underpinning of their
academic qualification. Our Foundation
Degree also appeals to mature students
over 21 years and it includes a period
of work experience in the summer
between the first and second year.

BSc
Bachelor of Science (BSc) honours degrees are high-level
qualifications that will challenge you to think analytically and
develop a wide range of skills and knowledge. They usually
consist of three years of study at the University although
as part of your studies you may wish to avail yourself of the
opportunities to study abroad as part of your course. If you
already have a Foundation Degree in an appropriate subject
you may be able to study one of our degrees starting in year
two.

Postgraduate degrees

Flexibility and progression

The Institute runs a number

of MSc (Master of Science)
programmes, including and
perhaps most relevant for
equine applicants, ones in
animal and equine science.
Courses can be studied on a
full-time, part-time or distance
learning basis and there are also
opportunities to study for an
MPhil or PhD.

Changing between courses at the same level

Many students find new interests once they have registered on one of
our courses, and wish to change their course to another that better fits
their developing interests. This is often possible without having to start
again and there is considerable flexibility to move between courses.

Progressing between courses

Progression is possible and encouraged between our Foundation
Degrees, full honours degrees and MSc. Its up to you how far you wish
to progress. All you will need to do is meet certain academic standards.
Please feel free to visit us or contact us for more details.

Equine Studies - Foundation Degree

UCAS code D324
For those wishing to follow a vocational route to degree level or those who wish to retrain for a career
change, our two-year Foundation Degree in Equine Studies is an excellent route to achieve your objectives.
A Foundation Degree is not a lower level degree, but is a either a pathway into employment or into further
qualifications and you will receive every encouragement to progress onto the BSc (Honours) degree schemes.
The equine industry demands that you have a
comprehensive knowledge of equine management
and an essential grasp of the underlying scientific
principles regarding how a horse functions and
behaves. Every job application you ever make will
be strengthened if you can clearly demonstrate
these two things and this course is designed to
provide you with that sound practical and scientific
knowledge base. Work experience is an important
component of this course, giving you a first-hand
opportunity to apply theory in a practical context.
You will also gain industry exposure form numerous
practicals and visits contained within the course and
also from a second year study tour.

What will I study?

The first year provides an overview of the equine
industry and introduces equine anatomy, physiology,
animal science, breeding and stud management.
Horsemastership and equine business are also
important components of the first year with the
aim of developing a range of skills essential for
the workplace. Aberystwyth is also a British Horse
Society (BHS) Where to train centre and so you are
encouraged to train for BHS qualifications alongside
your main studies.
The courses vocational nature is reinforced by a
period of work experience between the first and
second years of your study. This is an essential part
of the course and allows you to both apply your
knowledge in a practical context and to build up
invaluable work experience to enhance your career
prospects. You may gain your experience in the
stables of a riding school, the studs of Kentucky or the
gallops of Australia!

The second year further develops your knowledge of

applied equine science with core modules including
equine nutrition, health and behaviour, and equine
business management as well as research skills
modules that prepare you to study at honours level.
There is also a study tour in year two (for which you
will need to make a contribution towards the costs),
on which we focus on the application of science and
management in practice.
In your second year you will choose from optional
modules including equitation, veterinary science
and event management.

Progression to BSc
Our course has been designed to provide you with
flexibility and to progress to enable you to reach
your potential. Consequently, depending upon how
you have done, you may be offered the opportunity
to progress onto an equine or related degree course
with completion within one or two years depending
upon the course and how well you performed on the
Foundation Degree.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment is by way of a combination of
coursework including written reports, presentations,
practical assessments and projects, together with
field visits to a range of equine enterprises plus
examinations. Students are also continually assessed
on their horsemastership skills and ability to prepare
horses for examinations, competitions and sales. You
may be involved in a range of projects which might
include: assessment of horse fitness using heartrate monitors and controlled exercise, breaking and
schooling, feeding trials, and many more.

Job opportunities
The vocational nature of the Foundation Degree
qualifies you for managerial roles in many equine
roles. The course provides you with an excellent start
to a career in the management of equine centres,
such as studs, competition and racing stables or allied
equine enterprises. This qualification may also lead to
employment in the technical aspects of research and
development, education and training.
Student visit to the Racing Academy, Kildare, Ireland

Stallion seen at a visit to Dalham Hall Stud

Equine Studies - 1 year follow-on

UCAS code D325
This follow-on modular scheme leads to the award
of a BSc degree, and is specifically designed for
those who have successfully completed either our
Foundation Degree in equine studies or alternatively
an approved Foundation Degree in a relevant equine
course and to a satisfactory level. You will study a
combination of modules including equine exercise
physiology, stud management, animal breeding,
advanced equine nutrition and equine marketing
and business management. You will also prepare a
dissertation on a subject of your own choice which
contributes to your final assessment and allows you
to pursue a topic of particular interest in-depth.

What is the course all about?

This scheme equips you for the management and
supervision of equine enterprises in the UK and
abroad, and for a wide range of advisory, commercial
and educational work in the equine and rural sector.
The business management skills acquired are also
readily transferable to other sectors of commerce
and industry.

What kind of final year dissertation will I

study?
Students have the choice of completing a research
or literature based dissertation, which accounts
for up to 25% of the year. This is an opportunity for
you to either devise your own research topic or to

get involved in some of the ongoing research in

the Institute, and to engage in a topic that absorbs
you. For example, dissertations and projects have
included behaviour trials, feeding trials, performance
studies, plus investigations into yard viability,
marketing and breeding amongst many others.
To assist with these you will obviously have access
to specialist staff and state-of-the-art research
laboratories, equipment and other facilities.

How will I be assessed?

The emphasis throughout the year is on realism
and relevance and consequently there will be a
range of assessments comprising a combination
of coursework, including practical reports, essays,
presentations, seminars, reviews of scientific
publications, case studies and examinations.

Job opportunities

Equine biomechanics study

The degree will allow you to develop specialist skills

such as the ability to evaluate the welfare needs
of horses and evaluate equine stock selection,
reproduction and stud management as well as
developing a range of transferable skills highly
valued by employers. You will have access to highly
specialised facilities, the Lluest Equine Centre is
a British Horse Society approved training centre
offering tuition for BHS stages (Riding and Care) up
to Instructor level. These facilities enable students
to develop their specialist skills and knowledge
preparing them for a successful transition into the
workplace. Guest lecturers and expert external
teachers also contribute to the curriculum to pass on
their industry expertise and knowledge. The Institute
also organises visiting riding lecture demonstrations.
Your BSc in Equine Studies will equip you for a
career in the management and supervision of
equine enterprises, such as a stud manager, trainer,
nutritionist, research officer, equine consultant
or welfare inspector. Graduates also find work in
agri-businesses, scientific journalism, teaching and
research.

A live auction at Tattersalls, which students attended during a study visit

10

Equine Science - BSc

UCAS code D322
What is the course all
about?
At Aberystwyth this course
studies the science of the
horse, including how the horse
is bred for superior traits, its
nutrition, welfare and care for
maximum performance, and
its management in relation
to reproduction, exercise
physiology, behaviour and wellbeing. This scheme provides a
comprehensive understanding of
animal science and then, as the
course progresses, focuses more
and more on the application of
this science in the performance
and management of the horse.

What will I study?

The scheme has a strong base of
equine and biological sciences

combined with more applied

aspects relating to equine
management practice. You also
have the option of developing
your knowledge and skills further
by selecting from some optional
modules.
The first year includes
fundamental biological science
modules such as physiology,
genetics and metabolism as well
as applied modules including
equine anatomy, equine exercise
physiology and the equine
industry. During your first
year you will also undertake a
study tour (for which you will
need to make a contribution
towards the costs), in which
we focus on the application of
science and management in
practice. Core modules in the
second year will develop your

Horses Inside Out demonstration, for students studying equine anatomy

understanding of equine exercise

physiology, nutrition, health and
behaviour, veterinary science and
reproductive physiology.
The final year aims to complete
the process of integrating
scientific principles with equine
management practice. The core

11
modules include equine stud
management, advanced equine
nutrition and veterinary diseases.
In addition, optional modules are
available to develop further your
interests and specialist skills.

What kind of final year

dissertation will I study?
A central feature of the final year
is an individual research project
on a topic of your choice, upon
which your honours dissertation,
which accounts for up to 25%
of the year, will be based. With
a dissertation, students have
the opportunity to either devise
their own research topic or to get
involved in some of the ongoing
research in the Institute, and to
engage in a topic that absorbs
you. For example, dissertations
and projects have included
behaviour trials, feeding trials,
performance studies, molecular
biology, genetic selection,
performance and breeding
amongst many others. To assist

with these you will obviously

have access to specialist staff
and state-of-the-art research
laboratories, equipment and
other facilities.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment is by way of a
combination of coursework
including written reports,
presentations, role play,
laboratory practical assessments
and projects, together with
field visits to a range of equine
enterprises plus examinations.
You may be involved in a range

of projects which might include:

assessment of horse fitness using
heart-rate monitors and controlled
exercise, breaking and schooling,
feeding trials, case study
assessments and many more.

Job opportunities
By providing scientific and
technical training, the scheme
will prepare you for a professional
career in the equine industry and
its allied services. Alternatively, the
broad scientific foundation which
this scheme provides will prepare
you for a wide range of career
opportunities in the animal science
industry. The scheme offers you
the flexibility of studying abroad at
partner universities elsewhere in
Europe or the United States, taking
a year out in employment, or
taking an industrial placement.
We strongly encourage you to gain
some work experience because
this significantly enhances your
employment potential. The
scheme is designed to prepare you
for a wide range of employment
opportunities in equine and
animal science, research and
development, advisory and
technical support work, enterprise
management and education, in
the UK and overseas.

12

Equine and
Veterinary Bioscience - BSc
UCAS code D334
What is the course all about?
Within this course you will study the science of
the horse in such a way as to provide you with the
underpinning veterinary medicine and scientific
theory of this magnificent animal. The course
covers the science of breeding and managing
the horse and provides a comprehensive
understanding of equine science, but emphasises
aspects of veterinary medicine in addition to the
physiology, breeding and reproduction, health and
behaviour, nutrition, and performance physiology
of the horse. It does not provide recognised
training for those wishing to practise as a veterinary
surgeon, but may provide graduates with a
suitable pathway to a veterinary medicine degree
programme.

A demonstration of the CT Scanner on a visit to Newmarket

What will I study?

The scheme has a strong base of equine and
veterinary sciences combined with more applied
aspects relating to the science and management of
the horse. You also have the option of developing
your knowledge and skills further by selecting from
some optional modules.
The first year includes biological science modules
such as genetics, cell biology and metabolism as
well as applied modules including equine anatomy,
equine exercise physiology, the equine industry, and
disease diagnosis and control. During your first year
you will also have to undertake a compulsory study
tour for which you will need to make a contribution
towards the costs. Core modules in the second
year will develop your understanding of equine
exercise physiology, nutrition, health and behaviour,
veterinary science and immunology.
The final year aims to complete the process of
integrating scientific principles with equine and

13
veterinary management practice. The core
modules include equine stud management,
advanced equine nutrition, veterinary infectious
diseases, veterinary pharmacology and
toxicology.

What kind of final year dissertation

will I study?
In keeping with all our animal science related
degrees at Aberystwyth a central feature
of the final year of the Equine Science and
Veterinary Bioscience degree is an individual
research dissertation on a topic of your choice
and which accounts for up to 25% of the year.
With this dissertation students can choose
their own research topic or benefit from some
of the ongoing research in the Institute. For
example you may want to look at twinning
in mares, grass sickness, disease control, feed
trials, performance studies amongst many
others. To assist with these you will have access
to specialist staff and state-of-the-art research
laboratories, equipment and other facilities.

Student visit to an equine hospital

How will I be assessed?

A variety of assessments are used as you progress
through your degree. These will include a combination
of coursework such as written reports, presentations,
problem solving, laboratory practical assessments and
projects, together with more formal examinations. You
may be also be involved in a range of projects which
might include: assessment of horse fitness and health,
pandemic case study assessments and many more.

Job opportunities
The scheme is designed to prepare you for a wide
range of employment opportunities in equine and
animal science, welfare, research and development,
advisory and technical support work, enterprise
management and education, animal health industry,
veterinary surveillance, veterinary business in the UK
and overseas. The scheme does not, however, provide
recognised training for those wishing to practise as
a veterinary surgeon and as with all our courses we
strongly encourage you to gain some work experience
because this significantly enhances your employment
potential.

14

Animal Science - BSc

UCAS code D306
This three-year degree course will appeal to you if
you are interested in animals and would like to know
more about them and their fundamental biology.
The course concentrates on farm animals, horses,
and companion animals. You will benefit from a high
quality environment for studying animal science,
supported by teaching staff that are at the forefront
of research in their respective fields, and in addition
access to an outstanding range of practical facilities.

What will I study?

The first year provides a broad foundation in animal
science in which you will study subjects including
genetics, cell biology, metabolism and microbial
diversity. In the second and third years of the course
you will study a number of core modules, including
animal nutrition, animal reproduction, veterinary

Studying horse movements

science, and animal behaviour, in addition to choosing

subjects of particular interest to you.
Within the Animal Science degree you have the
opportunity to choose between one of three specialist
pathways. These being an Animal Production,
Companion Animal and Equine Science pathway. The
animal production science pathway is an applied route
specialising in the science of farm animals and within
this pathway your subjects would include animal
production systems, grassland management, animal
production science and an agricultural study tour.
The companion animal science pathway considers
animals such as dogs, cats, birds and fish as well as
some of the more exotic species and therefore specific
subjects include companion animal health, vertebrate
anatomy, zoo science, diversity of birds and brains and
behaviour. The equine science pathway gives you the

15
opportunity to study the horse whilst getting
a degree that is more broadly based than the
equine science degree, but still includes some
equine anatomy, exercise physiology, stud
management and bioethics.

What kind of Year 3 dissertation

will I do?
Animal science students complete a
dissertation which accounts for 25% of
the final year of the course. This is an
opportunity to get involved in some of the
research in the Institute, and to engage in a
topic that absorbs you. Recent dissertations
have included investigating some of
the alternatives to antibiotics in animal
production, tuberculosis in cattle, hip
dysplasia in dogs and animal transport and
stress. To assist with the dissertation you
will have access to specialist staff and stateof-the-art research laboratories, equipment
and other facilities.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment is through examination, which
typically accounts for 50% of each modules
value, and term time assessments, which can
be anything from essays, laboratory reports,
seminars, literature reviews, debates and
problem solving.

Job opportunities
Animal Science opens up a wide range of
career opportunities in scientific research
within private and public organisations,
veterinary training, advisory and
consultancy services, pharmaceutical and
animal feed industries and education. In
addition, because the skills acquired are
valued in many graduate employment
situations, other graduates have developed
careers in areas such as the civil service and
commerce. This scheme also frequently
leads to postgraduate research at MSc and
PhD level.

16

Visits, fieldwork and study tours

As part of your equine studies
you will have the opportunity to
visit a range of places within the
industry including:
studs

riding schools

eventing yards

veterinary practices

horse sales

showing and show jumping

competitions

affiliated dressage shows

private and commercial

establishments etc.
Student visit to Kildangan Stud, Ireland

The Tattersalls Guineas Breeze Up Sale

17

Many courses offer the opportunity

for students to go on tour during
their studies. The equine study tour is
run annually and is usually to Ireland
and/or Newmarket. This allows you
to appreciate the opportunities the
industry presents for your future
career.
The sorts of places we visit on tour
include:

Newmarket race course

Darley Stud, Newmarket

The National Stud, Newmarket

Badminton Horse Trials

Training yards and out on the

gallops in Newmarket.

And lots more!

18

Postgraduate courses
Taught Masters degrees are
a popular progression route
for graduates who wish to
deepen their knowledge in
a specific area. Traditionally
they involve two taught
semesters, which generally
include traditional lectures
and seminars, and a final
self-study semester. During
the self-study semester, you
will complete a supervised
dissertation and/or project.
The length of your studies
will depend on the course
itself, and how you want to
study it. Full-time taught
courses are usually studied
as a one-year residential
course, based at the
University. You can also
study our postgraduate
courses on a part-time
basis, which offers you
the flexibility to fit in
your degree around your
working or family life, while
maintaining the same level
of income. A part-time
Masters will take two years
to complete.

Equine Science - MSc

UCAS code D391

This long-established internationally recognised programme will provide

you with advanced subject knowledge and professional skills. As a graduate
you will be ideally placed to enter the top careers in the equine industry or
related professions in animal research, development, academia, training,
public and private commercial enterprise, advisory work, and government
organisations in the UK and throughout the world. A strong emphasis is
placed on student-centred study in order to hone your skills in original
thought, analysis, interpretation and reasoning; as well as encouraging you,
where appropriate, to pursue your own specific areas of interest.
Subjects you may study on this course include reproductive physiology,
equine nutrition, breeding and genetics, infection and immunity and
advances in the biosciences.

Animal Science - MSc

UCAS code D310

This degree provides you with the knowledge and skills required to pursue
a leading career in animal research, development, academia, training, public
and private commercial enterprise, advisory work, government agencies
and non-government organisations throughout the world. Through the
study of animal physiology and its application to nutrition, breeding
and animal management, you will be ideally placed to ensure that the
demands of production and welfare are appropriately balanced through the
development and implementation of innovative management practices and
dissemination of knowledge and advice to practitioners.
Subjects you may study on this course include livestock nutrition, grassland
science, livestock production, animal breeding and genetics and advances in
biosciences.

19

About IBERS
The Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS) is a worldclass research and education centre. With 360 members of staff, IBERS is the largest
Institute within the University, teaching 1,350 undergraduate students and more
than 150 postgraduate students.
We are also the longest established provider
of equine courses in the UK, having begun this
provision in the 1970s. Thus, you can be confident
that at IBERS you will be taught by experienced
staff with international research reputations or a
background of working and training within their
industry.

cell tissue culture facilities and specialist

radioimmunoassay laboratories

foaling boxes with CCTV and demonstration

areas

state of the art advanced microscopy and bioimaging laboratories

DIY and possible working livery options

Facilities

1,000ha of farmland, cross country course and

guaranteed turnout

digital video cameras and computerised image

analysis software

mass spectrometry and analytical units

The Institute has superb equine facilities, including:

an international-sized indoor arena with seating

for 300

a large equine teaching centre

a fully equipped, 8-box purpose built research

unit

indoor and outdoor arenas, horse walker, round

pen and stables

EMG and ECG heart rate monitoring and

respiratory analysis testing facilities

The equine teaching centre is also a British Horse

Society Where to train centre and so you can study
for your BHS qualifications, from stage 1 to full
Instructor Certificate, alongside your course, or just
have lessons for fun. We also offer both DIY and
where appropriate working livery.

20

Graduate Profiles
Melanie: BSc Equine Science
Editorial Assistant, Horse & Rider Magazine
I found the BSc Equine
Science course really
enjoyable; it offered a
good balance between
scientific theory and
practical knowledge, not
just related to horses, but
other animals and humans
too. The support from the faculty was great, they
really helped me to get the most out of my studies.
I graduated with a 2:1, and straightaway gained
a place on British Horseracing Board Graduate
Development Programme. After working at
Newmarket racecourse, I progressed to the media
industry, and I now work as an Editorial Assistant for
the Horse& Rider magazine. I write the news pages
for the magazine, and also the Well-being features,
which focus on horse health, care and management. I
also get the opportunity to take part in photo shoots
for the magazine, and go to competitions and events
like Olympia and Badminton.
I have no regrets about choosing to study at Aber it
combines great tuition, support and facilities with
a fantastic nightlife. Its small, friendly place with
stunning scenery as a place to study, Id recommend
it to everyone.

Roz: BSc Equine Science

Veterinary Surgeon
I studied in
Aberystwyth for
a BSc (Hons) in
Equine Science. My
initial reason for
applying was the
Universitys great
reputation for the
equine courses, but
I finally chose to
study in Aber due
to the safe and friendly atmosphere of both the
campus and the town. Needless to say I soon
realised other benefits, such as the easy walking
distance between all the facilities, shops, pubs
and the beach!
After graduating from Aber I was invited for an
interview at a vet school and after been made
exempt the first year due to the scientific nature
of the Aber degree, I am now a qualified vet.
For me, the main rewards from studying in Aber
have been gaining a top class science degree
from a well-respected university and making
lifelong friends from a variety of other courses,
cultures and backgrounds. I loved it.

Jenni: BSc Equine Science

Equine Behaviour and Training Consultant
I enjoyed the time spent in Aberystwyth and quickly found that the
Equine Science degree encouraged me to challenge what I already
knew about horses. This experience allowed me to gain a strong
foundation in equestrian knowledge that I now use to integrate
new information gained from continuing professional development.
After graduating I spent four years working as a riding groom for a
UK animal welfare charity. I have since made a carer as an equine
behaviour and training consultant, where good practice comes from
an ability to combine expert knowledge with practical experience. Equine behaviour counselling is an interndisciplinary area where a strong foundation in Equine Science has proved invaluable.

21

Abigail: BSc Equine Science/MSc Equine Science

PhD student University of Nottingham Veterinary School
After having been involved with horses all my life I was aware of all the
conflicting tales regarding their management. I decided I wanted a solid
scientific abase on which to form my own opinions about equine husbandry and
chose Aberystwyth as the place to do this. I was impressed by their facilities and
being able to take my own horse there was a definite bonus.
The MSc course covered a good range of topics and all the staff helped
encourage me to think in a scientific manner. The excellent contacts which Aber
has with other research institutions allowed me to carry out my dissertation
research at the University of Liverpool veterinary hospital into bacterial biofilms in equine wounds.
I decided that improving equine welfare through research would be a challenging and exciting
progression for my career so I applied for a PhD at the University of Nottingham Veterinary School,
studying laminitis and osteoarthritis in horses. The excellent scientific base that Aber gave me, has
enabled me to confidently tackle the challenges of a PhD.

Elizabeth: Equine Studies/

BSc Equine Science

Kate: Equine Studies/

BSc Equine Science

Bloodstock Administrator for Tattersalls Ltd, Newmarket

Assistant Trainer

I returned to Higher
Education as a mature
student and have very
fond memories of
Aber. I initially studied
Equine Studies and then
progressed to the Equine
Science degree. The
courses incorporated a good balance of both practical
and academic studies essential for the workplace. If
asked why I chose to study at Aberystwyth I would
have to say that it was because of the warm welcome
I received at my initial visit and for the excellent
learning support facilities available.

The Equine Science

course at Aberystwyth
provided the opportunity
to study a more scientific
program than most other
similar courses offered.
This was exactly what I
was looking for and it is
so important, as I have
found, from a life after Uni viewpoint. Aber has an
excellent reputation with employers and the staff
are so friendly and welcoming.
The Equine degrees have many optional routes
allowing you to pursue your own interests and
the course gave me a good scientific grounding,
enabling me to go on to complete an MSc in
Immunology. Now I am an assistant trainer in a
mixed racing yard, responsible for the care of thirty
racehorses, as well as the administrative work
involved in the running of a racing yard.

Shortly after graduating, I moved to Newmarket

and worked in a Pedigree Agency and also as a Stud
Secretary, I then joined Europes leading bloodstock
auctioneers, Tattersalls. My role in the Bloodstock
department is to ensure that all horses sold meet the
necessary veterinary and registration criteria and fulfil
the companys stringent Conditions of Sale. I also
represent Tattersalls at race meetings and industry
functions as well as attending veterinary conferences
and sitting on the Equine Industry Committee held a
the Animal Health Trust in Newmarket.

The teaching facilities at Aber are brilliant and

the University also has one of the most beautiful
locations and an excellent social life an aspect
that never should be underestimated when
choosing a uni!

22

Student Life
at Aberystwyth

The Town and University

Where you study is important, because the place
determines the quality of life you enjoy, the
opportunities open to you and the time available
for academic study and personal development.
Aberystwyth is a distinctive town on the beautiful
shores of Cardigan Bay on the west coast of Wales.
Its rich history is immediately apparent; the towns
elegant Victorian seafront and picturesque harbour
is overlooked by the ruins of a medieval castle
and an iron-age hill fort. Aberystwyth is set in
unspoilt surroundings, offering a fine coastline and
expanses of rolling moorland and wooded valleys
immediately inland. The Cambrian Mountains and
Snowdonia National Park are within easy reach and
provide access to a host of outdoor activities.

Mathematics

23
23

Student Life
Everything in Aberystwyth is accessible
and within walking distance, and the
town is served by frequent rail and bus
services. There are no time-consuming,
costly and frustrating journeys to work or
leisure activities in this small, pollution-free,
and safe university town. All students are
guaranteed accommodation in their first
year, and many students choose to live in
university accommodation for their final
year. The majority of second year students
live in privately rented housing in the
town. The fact that most students live on
campus or in town creates very favourable
conditions for the active student life for
which Aberystwyth is famous.

All first year

students are
guaranteed
rooms in Halls of
Residence, most
within a short
walking distance
of the campus.

The Students Union offers a wide range of excellent student services,

with clubs and societies that cover academic, musical, religious,
political and recreational interests. Sports clubs flourish in Aberystwyth
given the excellent facilities available at the University and in the town.
Membership gives free or cheap access to many facilities on campus bars, music, cinema, theatre, shops, launderette and travel agency. The
Arts Centre on the campus provides an excellent programme of music,
comedy, drama, dance and exhibitions.

The Students
Today, housed on a splendid campus site, the University has expanded
to more than 8,000 students. It has a cosmopolitan atmosphere, with
students from over 70 nations welcomed annually to undertake their
chosen course. In recent years, students have been drawn in roughly
equal number from Wales, and the rest of Britain and Ireland. All who
study here acknowledge that Aberystwyth remains a very special place,
which they remember with affection. Aberystwyth has a dynamic
student community, an excellent social life, and a stunning location.

24

How to Apply
Entry requirements

Scholarships, Bursaries and Awards

You need to apply for our courses though

the UCAS (University and Colleges
Admissions Service) system. Details of how
to do this can be found at the UCAS website
at www.ucas.com/. What we look for is a
combination of proven academic ability and
a genuine interest in the subject. We accept
a wide range of qualifications in addition
to A-levels, including National Diplomas,
Baccalaureates and many more. All offers are
made on an individual basis following careful
consideration by an IBERS Admissions Tutor.
We also require grade C in Maths and English
or Welsh at GCSE level or an equivalent.

The Scholarships, Bursaries and Awards offered at

Aberystwyth are amongst the most valuable and
extensive available at any British university. Our awards
provide valuable financial support to ensure that
students of all backgrounds can enjoy the benefits of
higher education.

Offers are not based upon interviews but

applicants to whom offers are made are
encouraged to attend one of our Visiting
Days held during the spring. We welcome
applications from mature students without
standard qualifications and decisions are
made on an individual basis based upon
an interview, qualifications and experience.
Speak to us and we will advise you on your
suitability.
Please note that entrance requirements can
change and you are advised to check the
University web site at www.aber.ac.uk/en/
undergrad/requirements/ for up to date
details or give us a call at the number below.

Amongst the awards available are:

Aberystwyth Bursaries
worth up to 1,000 a year
Excellence Scholarships
worth 1,000 a year
Entrance Scholarships
worth up to 1,200 a year
Residential Bursaries
worth 400
Music Scholarships
worth 500 a year
Sports Scholarships
worth 500 a year
Care Leaver Bursaries
worth up to 1,800 a year
International Excellence Undergraduate
Scholarships
2,000 a year
* Please note that not all of these awards can be held
together, but many can in different combinations.
Further information can be found on the website
(www.aber.ac.uk/en/scholarships) or by contacting the
Universitys Marketing Office on 01970 622065, or by
emailing marketing@aber.ac.uk

25

Open Days and Visiting Days

During the year, Aberystwyth University hosts
several main Open Days, where you can visit any
part of the University. During your Open Day you
will be able to:

For more information and to reserve your place

on an Aberystwyth University Open Day visit our
website www.aber.ac.uk/en/open-days, or contact
us on 01970 622065, or email openday@aber.ac.uk

Look at your accommodation

Visit the departments
Tour our campus and facilities
Find out about our bursaries and scholarships
Speak to our current students

Once youve applied for a place at Aberystwyth,

you will automatically be invited to attend a Visiting
Day. These visits focus on the course in which youve
shown an interest, and provide an opportunity for
you to meet with tutors and current students, and
discuss the course in more detail.

 Traditional coastal campus University established 1872

Superb equine facilities
Taught by staff with international reputations for research in
their particular fields
Excellent package of scholarships and bursaries
Guaranteed first year accommodation
Exceptional support for student learning

Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences

Aberystwyth University
Penglais Campus
Aberystwyth
Ceredigion
SY23 3DA
Telephone: (01970) 621904
Email: ibers-admissions@aber.ac.uk

19851 - 18.5.15

For further information, contact: