Programme Description
This brand new foundation degree in equine sport performance is currently undergoing validation by University of Wales Trinity Saint David, with the aim to start its first delivery in September 2020. The course will be delivered at the college's Pibwrlwyd campus in Carmarthen where the equine facilities are based.
This course centres on the all-round performance of the horse and rider, preparing students for a career in coaching, care and training in professional equestrian sport as well as a leisure pursuit.
The key focus of this course will be the underlying factors which affect performance, methods used to assess performance and the evaluation of a range of techniques which enhance performance of both the equine and the rider, whilst assessing the impact of external factors on success.
Students will develop an in-depth understanding of coaching methods, the importance of sports psychology, rider and equine anatomy, fitness and training.
Programme Features
Full-time students will study 120 credits at level four in year one and level five for year two.
Part-time students will undertake 80 credits per year for three years.
You will also undertake compulsory work-based modules at levels four and five to gain essential industry experience and maximise your employability. This includes 150 hours of work placement during year one and 200 hours of work placement during year two. The work placement should be undertaken at an equine business or organisation.
You will have access to the college’s BHS approved training and exam centre with its equine facilities, which includes indoor and outdoor arenas and stables. Educational trips will also be undertaken to a varied range of equestrian businesses to widen your experiences.
Progression & Employment
The programme enables students to develop a range of skills which transfer easily to the world of work.
Graduates can approach a range of careers within teaching, competition and training centres, studs and reproductive centres, racing, polo, riding schools, freelance riding instructors/coaches, nutrition, research and laboratory work, industry organisations, welfare and rescue centres.
The course allows progression onto BSc top-up programmes delivered at other institutions.
Programme Content
Full-time students undertake the following modules at level four, year one and level five, year two:
Level 4
- Animal nutrition (with equine specific focus)
- Equine behaviour, health and husbandry
- Industry based learning
- Introduction to animal anatomy and physiology (equine focus)
- Management of the performance horse
- Study skills
Level 5
- Industry based learning
- Rider physiology and fitness
- Equine breeding, conformation and performance
- Equine sport performance for the future
Equine sport psychology and coaching
Programme Assessment
Each module is individually assessed and you will have tutorial support to aid with progression and development. The programme uses a range of assessment methods so that all students are given opportunities to demonstrate their strengths and in order to promote their graduate key skills.
Assessment methods include case studies, examinations, written reports, research projects, practical assessments, essays and presentations.
Programme Entry Requirements
Entry will be granted to applicants who demonstrate the academic ability and potential to benefit from the programme.
You will be expected to have four GCSEs at grade C and above, plus 16 UCAS points.
If you are a mature learner who may not meet these criteria, you will still be considered on your own merit at interview, based on your experience, interview assessment and other qualifications you may have gained.
The college also welcomes students with a range of appropriate vocational qualifications and experience to apply, in addition to the traditional A-level route. These could include the level three advanced technical diploma and extended diploma in animal or equine management, level three extended diploma in animal or equine management, the level three Baccalaureate, apprenticeships, NVQs, AVCEs, national diplomas and advanced national certificates, NPTC level three subsidiary diploma and diploma in animal or equine management.
The University of Wales Trinity Saint David welcomes applications on the basis of prior learning.