BSc (Hons) Equine Performance and Coaching at Hartpury University

Programme overview

Elevate equestrian performance with a degree that puts horse and rider at the heart of success. This course blends cutting-edge coaching science with welfare-focused training and management, helping you unlock the full potential of both horse and rider. You'll build a strong foundation in performance optimisation while gaining extensive hands-on experience coaching riders across all levels.

Duration: 3 or 4 years full time | Study mode: full-time (part-time available; optional integrated placement year) | Location: Gloucester, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Graduates will have an applied understanding of equitation science, enabling them to educate horse riders in the use of evidence-based welfare-centric training methods and principles. You'll be able to constructively challenge current practices, communicate information to athletes and clients that they encounter and explore new concepts, in order to safeguard the horse. Compulsory modules include Equitation Science for Coaches, Equestrian Practice, Equestrian Coaching and Teaching Portfolio (Theory), Equine Structure and Function, Equine Industry, Coaching and Teaching Portfolio (Pedagogy), Equine Performance, Fitness and Training, The Other 23 Hours.

Career pathways

Graduate destinations include Freelance Equestrian Coach; Postgraduate study; Pathways Coach (PCUK, BE, BD, WCP); Equine Performance Analyst; (Assistant) Yard manager at a large commercial yard.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

UCAS: A typical offer for this course is 112 UCAS tariff points or equivalent. GCSE: A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 9 to 4, (or A* to C grades if relevant) or equivalent, to include English Language, Mathematics and a Science. A-level: Typical offer is BBC or equivalent. This must include a minimum of two A-levels. Vocational Award: Typical offer is DMM in an Extended Diploma in a relevant subject. Access: Typical offer is 112 UCAS tariff points in an Access to Higher Education Diploma. IB: Typical offer is 112 UCAS tariff points in an IB Diploma, to include a minimum of two Highers at H3 or above. This must also include Maths and English Language at a minimum of Standard Level S3 if equivalent GCSEs have not been obtained. T Level: An overall grade of Merit, to include grade C or above in the Core component.

Domestic applicants: GBP 9,790 a year (2026/27). Full-time undergraduate degree fee (UK, ROI, Crown Dependencies, BOT); integrated placement year charged at 20% of the course fee Source

International applicants: GBP 18,150 a year (2026/27). International equine tuition fee for BSc degrees; integrated placement year charged at 20% of the course fee Source

Duration: 3 or 4 years full time

Apply through the official page: https://digital.ucas.com/coursedisplay/courses/b5378689-deb4-4727-b68f-d75f71e89635?academicYearId=2026&courseOptionId=ebc72a40-d131-4133-b541-7e4c1183efd3

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