Peter Wilson Building
King's Buildings
West Mains Road
Edinburgh
EH9 3JG
Scotland
Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) is a specialist provider of both college- and university-level education, dedicated to advancing a sustainable natural economy through the responsible use and management of natural resources — including people, land, water, energy, plants and animals. Its programmes are grounded in applied science, environmental stewardship and industry-focused expertise.
SRUC delivers education that responds to global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss and equitable access to nutritious food and clean water. By integrating sustainability across teaching, research and practice, SRUC aims to generate positive economic, social and environmental outcomes locally, nationally and internationally.
The College offers courses across a wide range of disciplines, including business, science, environmental management, agriculture, animal and plant sciences, and equine studies. These programmes reflect the central role of environmental impact and sustainability in contemporary industry and society — from the management of rural and recreational land to the operation of equine enterprises and the development of policy and practice. Through rigorous academic content and real-world application, SRUC supports learners to understand the scientific foundations of land-based sectors, the interconnections between ecological systems and enterprise, and the evolving needs of the businesses and communities they will serve.
Equine Courses at SRUC
BSc (Hons) Equine Science and Management
This unique programme combines a range of equine science and management topics. Learning draws on best practices from around the world and provides learners with a broad knowledge base along with extensive practical experience. The course equips learners with the skills to apply scientific knowledge in a wide range of practical situations within the equine industry.
Graduates are prepared to manage the overall care of horses across various equine disciplines and settings, including roles such as nutritional advisors, yard managers, stud yards, the racing industry, welfare, and animal/equine behaviour.
CertHE in Equine Science and Management
The CertHE in Equine Science and Management provides learners with a broad knowledge base and extensive practical experience. It combines equine science, business management, and practical horse care to develop the skills needed to apply scientific knowledge in a range of real-world situations.
The course uses an active, blended learning approach, combining online theory sessions with on-campus practical learning. On-campus sessions take place at SRUC’s Oatridge Campus, home of the Scottish National Equestrian Centre (SNEC), offering access to excellent equestrian facilities and college horses.
The CertHE also provides learners with the opportunity to progress to the BSc (Hons) in Equine Science and Management for further study.
Advanced Certificate in Horse Care
This course builds on the NC and prepares learners for the CertHE in Equine Studies. It gives practical experience and knowledge in horse care and equitation and prepares learners for work in the horse care and equestrian industry.
Topics include basic health care and diet, monitoring and maintaining feed and bedding, tacking up horses for specialist work, clipping, and preparing horses for public appearance.
NC Horse Care is designed to give learners a practical foundation, which can lead to employment in yards, studs, or liveries, or progression to further courses such as the Advanced Certificate in Horse Care or the CertHE Equine Science and Management.
Learners undertake early morning and weekend yard duties as part of the course. An acceptable level of fitness is required to ride and carry out yard duties safely and effectively.
In the NC Racehorse Care, learners study a range of topics to develop the knowledge and skills required to work in the thoroughbred horse racing industry. This course helps develop the skills needed to work in the thoroughbred racing horse industry, either stud or racing, while also gaining personal, interpersonal, and workplace skills that support success in any job.
The course is the first step on the ladder of equine qualifications offered at SRUC and runs in parallel with the NC in Horse Care. It is designed to provide a practical foundation in the care of racehorses and offers the qualification required for employment in racing yards.
Learners gain skills relevant for a range of career opportunities within the racing industry and undertake early morning and weekend yard duties as part of the course. An acceptable level of fitness is required to enable learners to ride effectively and carry out yard duties.
MA Equine (SCQF Level 5 and 6)
These Modern Apprenticeship qualifications are work-based for those employed in the equine sector.
A blended learning NPA vocational course for those who love working with horses and animals, and aimed at those still at school to study as part of their higher learning. Currently the course includes the need to attend practical days at an SRUC campus.
Contact Details
Email study@sruc.ac.uk
Telephone 0800 269 453
