Bachelor of Equine Science

Upon completion of this course, graduates will be able to:

1. Model safe work practices and contemporary knowledge of ethical and legal management of equids locally, nationally and internationally.
2. Critically evaluate scientific literature to inform decision making in a variety of contexts across the equine industry and implement practical skills to ensure health, welfare and social acceptability.
3. Critically evaluate industry practices and utilise an evidence-based approach for the management of equids to be positive drivers for current and future sustainability.
4. Judiciously apply a range of digital literacies to critically evaluate research and communicate science-informed disciplinary knowledge, and present ideas effectively to a variety of stakeholders.
5. Utilise highly developed, interpersonal and problem-solving skills to support lifelong learning and professional development in the equine and allied industries.
6. Apply evidence-based practical skills to handle and interact with horses safely in a range of equine and allied industry settings.
7. Manage a diverse range of resources, including organisational, financial, social, agricultural, health and welfare in a rapidly changing and scrutinised industry.
8. Explain and synthesise knowledge of traditional industry practices and First Nations cultures and knowledges to develop inter-cultural understanding of issues related to land use, sustainability and animal management.

The aim of this course is to produce graduates who are capable of working successfully in an industry that requires scientific and technical knowledge in relation to equine science (including health, husbandry, reproduction, behaviour and welfare), and the ability to source, evaluate, interpret and communicate new knowledge in this field as it emerges.

Core values for the Bachelor of Equine Science are the training of highly employable, safe, competent and adaptable graduates with developed interpersonal, problem-solving and decision-making skills. This includes a positive attitude, the ability to work effectively in multi-disciplinary teams and to understand the value of lifelong learning.

Recommended study pattern

6 YEAR PART TIME OFFERING (ONLINE OR ON CAMPUS)

Year 1, Session 1

EQS120 Horse Behaviour and Training I

EQS100 Equine Life Systems

Year 1, Session 2

EQS121 Horse Behaviour and Training II

EQS110 Equine Health and Disease

Year 2, Session 1

EQS104 Introduction to Equitation Science

CHM108 Chemical Fundamentals

Year 2, Session 2

IKC101 First Nations Foundations: Knowing, Relating and Understanding Country

ASC214 Applied Statistics and Epidemiology

Year 3, Session 1

EQS240 Equine Locomotion

EQS210 Equine Disease Prevention

Year 3, Session 2

EQS260 Equine Breeding Management

EQS270 Horse Breeding Technologies

Year 4, Session 1

AGR220 Extension

EQS220 Equine Exercise Physiology

Year 4, Session 2

EQS250 Equine Nutrition

EQS230 Equestrian Industry Governance

Year 5, Session 1

EQS350 Property Design and Management

Unrestricted Elective 

Year 5, Session 2

ASC306 Applied Animal Pharmacology

Unrestricted Elective 

Year 6, Session 1

EQS380 Professional Practice01 Advanced 

Restricted Elective (OR Unrestricted Elective)

Year 6, Session 2

EQS310 Equine Injury and Rehabilitation

EQS304 Contemporary Issues

Choose your subjects

Electives

Alongside a choice of elective subjects, you could also choose to do a business management major. This course will equip you with the skills and knowledge you’ll need to make evidence-based decisions in equine and animal-related industries, ensuring you’ll be job-ready when you graduate.

Exit points

This course is part of an articulated program of study. Articulated programs allow you to build on your study to achieve the right level of qualification for you.

• Diploma of Equine Studies.

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $23,784

The amounts shown here are indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

Charles Sturt University is Australia’s most experienced online uni, and has the country’s highest graduate employment rate. From agriculture, arts, healthcare and IT, to business, law, social work and teaching—you’ll get the latest skills in your field, and learn from academics who are connected to industry. Add in 24/7 IT support, scholarships and a vibrant student community, and you can take your next, or first, career step with confidence.

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• A completed Tertiary Preparation Course from an Australian University or an accredited provider demonstrating a reasonable prospect of success through the Grade Point Average (GPA) gained in these studies, OR
• Successful completion of two University level subjects (AQF level Associate Degree or higher) demonstrating a reasonable prospect of success through Grade Point Average (GPA) gained in these studies.

• A completed High School Certificate with a minimum ATAR required (including adjustment factors) or equivalent, OR
• A completed Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) with an equivalent ranking to the currently listed ATAR.

• A completed AQF Certificate III or higher level qualification; OR
• 50% completion of an AQF Diploma level qualification.

A minimum of three years relevant work experience AND documentary evidence of motivation to undertake university study in equine science. Such evidence must include a statement by the applicant addressing their work experience, the reason(s) for their interest in the course and what they have done (or will do) to prepare for the course. A statement of support (recommendation) from an employer or a professional person is highly desirable.

Standard English Language Proficiency (ELP) requirements.

If you’ve completed relevant tertiary study, or work experience related to your course, you could receive credit towards your degree. We also have several admission pathways to help you take the step into your preferred course, even if you don't quite meet the entry requirements at first. Find out what admission pathways are available to you.

Online students may need to attend an online or on campus intensive school for certain subjects. Intensive schools offer face-to-face or virtual lectures, tutorials and practicals to give you a deeper understanding of your subject content.