Course description
About the course
The Bachelor of Equine Science can be studied as a three-year full-time program on the Wagga Wagga Campus, or by distance education as a part-time, six-year program.
Students who complete the course will develop substantial skills and knowledge in relation to the modern management of horses, underpinned by a strong education in science and scientific method.
Commencing with a foundation of anatomy, physiology, chemistry and biology, the curriculum has particular strengths in the study of equine nutrition, reproduction and performance with the flexibility of electives to accommodate specific interests.
The course also has a strong emphasis on practical and life skills and is designed to prepare students for a successful career working with horses and the horse industry in business, teaching and research.
Where it will take you
Graduates from CSU’s equine courses have forged careers in complementary therapies, equine nutrition, pharmaceuticals, research and product development, government, sports administration and promotion, coaching, journalism, teaching secondary science and TAFE, as well as the more traditional areas of horse training and breeding management.
A recent survey of graduates from the Equine Science degree at CSU found that the largest proportion were working in education and research, closely followed by roles in equine training, stud management and their own equine services businesses. Smaller numbers were working in the horse nutrition field, racing industry and in government.
Not all graduates from the course work with horses, as the broad scientific education and life skills you will develop at CSU will prepare you for successful careers in a wide variety of fields.
The equine sector contributes AUD$6.4 billion to the Australian economy annually, so career and business pathways will continue to develop for those best equipped to capitalise on the opportunity.
Professionals teaching you
The same staff who teach and conduct research in the Veterinary Science degree will also be delivering the key subjects in the Equine Science degree.
Your course is recognised by industry
Graduates of Equine Science at CSU are granted credit by the Equestrian Federation of Australia NCAS scheme and may obtain the NCAS Level 1 coaching award by demonstrating satisfactory riding skills and sitting the EFA practical exam.
The latest facilities
Students who enrol in this course will enjoy learning in some of the best facilities of their kind in the world, with laboratories, museums, practical classrooms, animal handling facilities and digital learning resources that have been recently completed for the Veterinary Science degree offered at CSU.
The Campus has first class equestrian facilities and stabling that were redeveloped to service the needs of competitors in the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games.
Practical experience
Students will be expected to gain experience with performance horse and stud enterprises during their vacations. Practical training is also available at the Equine Centre. Student employment is available at the Centre through the Equine Trainee Scheme.
Credit
Students who have studied and successfully completed subjects at other universities which are likely to be equivalent to subjects in the CSU Equine Science degree may apply for credit for those subjects when enrolling. Credit will be granted for subjects which are equivalent in content and standard, at the discretion of the relevant Course Coordinator.
Science Scholarships
CSU's Science Scholarships are available for on campus applicants to this course, providing $4000 per annum for up to four years (subject to satisfactory progress). Once awarded the Scholarship, the money is the student's to spend in the way that assists them most.
Applicants must achieve a University Admissions Index (UAI)(NSW) or ENTER(VIC) of 80 and above (inclusive of the Regional Bonus) to be eligible to receive the Scholarship.
To apply, download the Science Scholarships application form, complete all sections, then return the form to the Scholarships Officer before the end of October in the year prior to commencing your studies.
Graduation requirements
To graduate, students must satisfactorily complete 192 points (24 subjects). Students will graduate from the Bachelor of Equine Science with the award BEquineSc.
Further study
Should you wish to further your study, opportunities for professional development include an Honours year as well as:
Graduate Certificate in Applied Science
Master of Applied Science
Doctor of Philosophy
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be able to ride a horse?
No. But there is opportunity for you to develop riding skills through industry practicum and project assessments particularly in first year.
Can I bring my horse with me?
Yes, you can keep your horse at the CSU Equine Centre in a stable with access to communal paddocks. Bedding is supplied and you supply your own feed. Local feed suppliers will deliver to CSU.
Are there any prerequisite subjects?
Preference is given to applicants who have studied mathematics and chemistry at Year 12 level but it is CSU policy not to exclude any student on the basis of prerequisite subjects if the student was unable to study any subject because of educational disadvantage.
How many contact hours are involved during semester?
During full-time on campus studies, you will be expected to attend lectures, tutorials and practical classes for approximately 24 hours per week.
For students completing their degree by distance education, residential schools may be conducted in February, April, July and September. They vary from one to five days in duration and attendance is usually compulsory. They are generally scheduled between 9am and 5pm and commonly include a series of lectures, small group tutorials and practical sessions.
Can the course be studied part-time?
Yes.
Can I apply to study on a full-fee paying basis?
Yes.
Can I transfer from Equine Science into Veterinary Science?
For non-CSU students, applications for Veterinary Science at CSU involve the submission of a completed questionnaire (available on the Veterinary Science website after 1 August each year) and an interview for selected applicants as well as applying through the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC).
Students of Equine Science at CSU can apply for admission to Veterinary Science by completion of the questionnaire and by a request to change courses. Entry into Veterinary Science will be on the basis of your grade point average (GPA) in your completed years of study at CSU (or other Universities) and other criteria assessed through the questionnaire and interview.
What job might I get after I have finished the course?
A recent survey of graduates from the equine program at CSU found that the largest proportion were working in education and research, closely followed by roles in equine training, stud management and their own equine services businesses. Smaller numbers were working in the horse nutrition field, the racing industry and in government. Not all graduates from the course work with horses, as the broad scientific education and life skills you will develop at CSU will prepare you for successful careers in a wide variety of fields.
