University-based education options

Universities across Ireland have acknowledged the importance of the Irish equine sector to the economy and have developed business and science degrees with an equine specialism to ensure there is a pool of suitably qualified individuals to fulfil the needs of the sector. Some university-based equine courses include:

This is a comprehensive Level 8 business degree with an equine business specialism. This unique degree focuses on the development of professional management skills for the equine industry and has been designed for students who would like to pursue a management career in this sector. Equine modules include stud farm business management, equine leisure and tourism, race day and equine event management.

Students also get the opportunity to study or work abroad for one year. Maynooth University is linked to the University of Kentucky allowing for work placement or study abroad exchanges.

This course only takes in 20 students each year, which makes it competitive to gain a place but also means the student to lecturer ratio remains low and students gain more individual attention, especially in third and fourth year.

It focuses on the applied sciences that underpin animal veterinary biosciences, with emphasis on the horse. The degree combines scientific knowledge and understanding with professional skills required in the industry.

Career options are endless with past graduates now working as stud farm managers, marketing managers, equine geneticists, equine scientists and more.

The four-year BSc degree in equine science provides students, who wish to follow a professional career in the horse industry, with the opportunity to underpin their career aspirations with specialist knowledge and skills.

All students undertake common modules for the first two years providing a strong base in science.

Other modules include anatomy and physiology, feeding and behaviour, reproduction, health and disease and nutrition. In addition, a strong base in business is established with modules in economics, marketing and accounting.

All students take modules in equitation in the first two years. These modules involve horse riding and hands-on working with horses.