Level 3 Equine Science Diploma

Course Content

Level 3 Equine Science Diploma Unit 1 – General Principles in Science

Unit 1 provides basic knowledge on how the three sciences play an important role in the understanding of equine studies. To begin, the classification of equine animals as mammals is explored, followed by the biology of the mammal species as a whole. Chemistry is used to describe a more in-depth view of the physiology and chemical reactions occurring inside these mammals. Furthermore, this unit touches on the different natural cycles that impact the interactions between living organisms and the environment surrounding them. This unit furthers an understanding of the function and structure of different mammal cells, how they reproduce, and the life cycles they experience and influence.

Level 3 Equine Science Diploma Unit 2 – Equine Anatomy and Physiology

Unit 2 digresses from the mammal family and begins to focus specifically on the equine species as a whole. It details the structure and their process of movement. Primary systems such as the hormonal endocrine system and auto-immune systems are examined. Bone and muscle structure is also described in detail. The equine nervous system and its senses are explored in depth. Furthermore, the respiratory, cardiovascular, and urinary systems are also meticulously described as part of the unit. Specific keywords and professional-specific terms associated with the anatomy and physiology of horses are more widely used and encouraged to learn throughout this unit.

Level 3 Equine Science Diploma Unit 3 – Genetics

Over the years, the genetics of horses have formed an integral part of the gene culturing and engineering industry. Selective breeding has been utilized to develop the more desirable qualities of a horse, such as strength, endurance, size, and speed and remove the less desired qualities. This unit covers in detail the process of selective breeding as well as some of the leading scientific theories and facts associated with genetics and their culturing. Knowledge of the process of cells and cell division is furthered and we begin to discuss how and why certain mutations can occur and why some can be considered beneficial such as longer legs or wider hips while many can be detrimental to horse genetics in general in the form of genetic disorders. This goes hand in hand with the topic of how natural and artificial selection has been influenced greatly by the field of study. To conclude, students will learn about the process of genetic drift as well as gene flow and the comparisons between inbreeding and outbreeding.

Level 3 Equine Science Diploma Unit 4 – Reproduction

Equine breeding is one of the most important elements of the industry as a whole. The complete understanding of the reproductive organs and systems of both the mare and stallions is critical. Unit 4 details the anatomy of horses as well as their mating procedure. Also touched upon is the process of artificial insemination and embryonic transfer techniques to assist in the breeding of horses. The life cycle of the horse is described with a focus on its young, otherwise known as a “Foal”.

Level 3 Equine Science Diploma Unit 5 – Equine Nutrition

This unit details the importance of a balanced nutritional intake to ensure the health and well-being of a horse. Awareness of nutritional values as well as the role it plays in a person’s ability to manage their horse’s health is furthered by this unit. The unit further examines which nutrients positively affect horse energy levels and the respiratory system. Different vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin B1 and Calcium are examined to give a greater understanding of how these elements influence a horse’s nutritional balance. To conclude, this unit will cover the many different types of equine feed and how to successfully monitor a horse’s diet to minimize or eliminate potentially detrimental or even fatal health issues.

Level 3 Equine Science Diploma Unit 6 – Equine Diseases

This unit details the various ailments and diseases which can be detrimental or even fatal to many equines. Also described is how to successfully diagnose and treat infected or diseased horses. Furthermore, many key viral diseases are studied in detail; diseases such as Equine Viral Arteritis are explored in depth – many common bacterial and fungal diseases are examined alongside their specific treatments. Finally, many other diseases such as Degenerative Nature Syndrome are outlined to give a detailed overview of the variety, severity, and depth of the diseases horses can contract.

Level 3 Equine Science Diploma Unit 7 – Veterinary Science

Following on from the previous unit, this unit explores the care horses receive in the form of veterinary science and medicine. Key legislations associated with veterinary science are covered alongside the different signs and signals that a horse may be ill or need medical attention. This unit covers the basics of administering first aid practices to horses as well as how horses are assessed and diagnosed within a veterinary clinic. Some of the most common treatment practices such as antihistamines and anti-infectives are studied and particular emphasis is placed on potential problems that can occur, for example, colic or issues during surgery.

Level 3 Equine Science Diploma Unit 8 – Equine Behavioral Science

Within this unit, the various mental and physical reactions that a horse may show when in various forms of distress are covered. You are given a detailed understanding of why a horse acts or reacts to different environments and situations, which can be both interesting and invaluable to ensuring the positive health and well-being of equines. This unit further details the domestication of horses as well as their herd mentality and how gender discrepancies may influence the behavior of horses within a herd. There will be a chance to look at horse genetics and their roles examined, alongside the impact these inherited genetics have on the attitude and behavior of specific breeds of horses towards others of their herd and their handlers.

Level 3 Equine Science Diploma Unit 9 – Exercise Physiology

Unit 9 details the role of exercise on the horse’s body structure. Important organs such as the heart are studied in order to comprehend some of the various adaptations horses must make when exercising. Such adaptations occur when a horse is in training are outlined alongside the potential consequences this exercise may have on muscles and bone structure. Successfully being able to maximize the performance potential of a horse is also reviewed along with the various appropriate procedures handlers and trainers may use during horse training. The advantages and disadvantages that come with different exercise techniques are explored alongside detrimental and potentially fatal problems that could arise from using the wrong techniques. This unit provides a solid foundation on how to correctly manage the delicate balance between exercise and health of the horse.

Level 3 Equine Science Diploma Unit 10 – Science and the Equine Industry

This unit is dedicated to detailing the growth of the equine industry throughout the years. It is estimated that 2.4 million people actively ride. Research into and around this industry is elaborated upon while the main organizations associated with equine research such as The Laminitis Trust are focused on in depth. Also involved are studies into selective breeding and reproduction focused on performance sports, endurance work, horse cloning, and the development of various drugs and vaccines. Industrial developments such as farriery (horse hoof management) and rider safety are also considered in this unit. Furthermore, the importance of research and development of science as a whole is crucial to the survival of the equine industry. Keeping ahead of these developments is extremely important for any student studying equine sciences.