Animal Science - Equine

Programme Short Name: BAgrSc (Hons) (NFQ Level 8)
Load (FT vs PT): Full Time
Levels (UG, G, etc): Undergraduate studies
Course Information:

CAO Code: DN250 EQS
CAO Points Range 2015: 470 - 600
Length of Course: 4 Years
Places: 160

Leaving Certificate: Passes in six subjects including English, Irish, Mathematics, one laboratory science subject & two other recognised subjects. Two of the six subjects must be minimum HC3.

Click below for equivalent entry requirements information for:
A-Level/GCSE
Other EU Applicants
Non-EU Applicants
Level 5/6 FETAC Entry Routes
Level 6/7 Progression Routes
Mature Entry Route


Why is this course for me?

Animal Science – Equine focuses on the applied sciences that underpin animal and veterinary biosciences, with emphasis on the horse. The degree provides the scientific knowledge and transferable skills necessary for professional leadership roles within many aspects of the animal and equine science industries. You’ll learn about:

  • The growth and development of farm animals, how they function and their behaviour and welfare
  • The equine industry in Ireland, its global context and entrepreneurial opportunities
  • Equine health, reproduction, genetics, breeding, nutrition and exercise physiology
  • Advances and future directions in research with emphasis on equine genetics and reproduction

Key Fact: Ireland produces more thoroughbred foals than any other EU state. We are the third-largest producer worldwide and marketed globally as The Land of the Horse.


What will I study?

You’ll study the basic sciences at the start, which are complemented by specialist modules in:

First & Second Year

  • Principles of Animal Science
  • Animal Biology & Evolution
  • Genetics & Biotechnology
  • Animal Nutrition & Equine Industries

Third & Fourth Year

  • Equine Anatomy and Physiology of Exercise
  • Equine Genetics
  • Equine Reproduction and Nutrition
  • Equine Industries
  • Farm Business Management
  • Equine Health and Husbandry

Animal practicals are delivered at UCD’s Lyons Research Farm, where excellent new equine teaching and research facilities exist. Anatomy classes are conducted at UCD’s Veterinary Hospital, while exciting research programmes in equine and animal science support the taught elements.

Students’ time is spent primarily attending lectures and undertaking independent study. In most modules this also involves attending practical sessions, laboratory workshops and/or tutorials.

For detailed information on subject content click here.
 


Career & Graduate Study Opportunities

In addition to the career opportunities available to Animal Science graduates, Animal Science – Equine graduates are equipped to pursue careers in:

  • Equine enterprise management
  • Equine leisure, recreation and tourism activities
  • Equestrian marketing and sales enterprises
  • Sports journalism
  • Academic teaching

You can pursue equine science research and development, master’s and PhD opportunities in Europe and the US.


Professional Work Experience & International Study Opportunities

A five-month PWE placement is integral to your degree and is an invaluable learning and networking opportunity. Exciting options include placements on stud farms in the Kentucky Bluegrass region and Japan, top show-jumping and eventing yards in Ireland, and with Tattersalls Ireland and Horse Sport Ireland.

There are also opportunities to participate in the Study Abroad Programme in third year.


Graduate Profile

“When deciding what course to do in college I was instantly drawn to the Animal Science - Equine programme in UCD. I grew up around horses and wanted to develop my knowledge by further study. The professional work placement module, that involves working within the equine sector for five months, allowed me to develop my professional skills and gain invaluable media and television training as a broadcaster. I completed my placement with an online TV channel catering for all aspects of the equine industry and this allowed me to meet many key industry figures. My advice to incoming students would be to go to lectures, keep up to date with course work and get involved with societies and clubs that interest you. Societies are a great way to make new friends and also get involved in college life.”

Alayna Cullen, Student


Related Programs: Agricultural Science
Animal & Crop Production
Animal Science
Veterinary Medicine
Pathway


Contact Information:

UCD Agriculture & Food Science Programme Office
Agriculture & Food Science Centre
Belfield, Dublin 4

Tel: +353 1 716 7194
Email: agandfoodprogrammes@ucd.ie


Categories: Animal Science
Equine