Programme Specification

BSc (Hons) Equine Science

Valid from: September 2015

Faculty of Health and Life Sciences/ Abingdon and Witney College

SECTION 1: GENERAL INFORMATION Awarding body:

Oxford Brookes University

Teaching institution and location:

Abingdon and Witney College and Oxford Brookes University

Final award:

BSc (Hons)

Programme title:

Equine Science

Interim exit awards and award titles:

CertHE, DipHE, Ordinary BSc, Honours degree

Brookes course code:

EQS

UCAS/UKPASS code:

D422 BSc/EQS

JACS code: D422

Mode of delivery:

On campus

Mode/s of study:

Full time

Language of study:

English

Relevant QAA subject benchmark statement/s:

Biosciences, 2007

External accreditation/recognition: (applicable to programmes with professional body approval)

N/A

Faculty managing the programme:

Health and Life Sciences

Date of production (or most recent revision) of specification:

Nov 14

SECTION 2: OVERVIEW AND PROGRAMME AIMS 2.1 Rationale for/distinctiveness of the programme Students have access to a flexible and broad portfolio of modules which provides them with the opportunity to build an individualised programme to support their career aspirations. The Equine Science degree is unique in utilising the links with various departments at Oxford Brookes University. Alongside equine specific modules, students have access to relevant modules delivered by the Oxford Brookes Business School and the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences. This enables students to follow specific pathways if they choose to; for example research, business or pure science. Key themes within the programme include equine rehabilitation, reproduction and stud management, performance science, nutrition, business management, behaviour and welfare. The programme facilitates the use of contemporary research to discuss and evaluate concepts and theories and explore scientific advances and their application within the field of equine science. Students develop the ability to think critically and constructively, through exposure to a wide variety of interactive teaching and learning methods. Final year students are encouraged to develop innovative solutions to current issues facing the industry. This equips graduates with in depth, contemporary knowledge, coupled with high level employability skills to pursue careers in a range of professional environments. 2.2 Aim/s of the programme The programme aims to:

provide an integrative framework for the major disciplines of the Equine Industry including equine

rehabilitation, reproduction and stud management, performance science, nutrition, business

management, behaviour and welfare;

develop a broad theoretical and applied knowledge and understanding of the biological and

economic systems relating to the performance and management of the horse;

develop scientific and economic skills required to formulate, study, interpret and respond to

problems and processes pertaining to horse management in applied and business situations;

facilitate work-related learning by offering students the chance to interact with relevant industry

specialists and potential employers;

provide a range of teaching and learning experiences to help focus student career aspirations

and decision making as responsible members of society.

SECTION 3: PROGRAMME LEARNING OUTCOMES Knowledge, understanding and skills: On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: 3.1 Academic literacy

Demonstrate subject-specific core knowledge and transferable skills gathered throughout their programme; evidence of sustained learning.

Demonstrate broad-based understanding of specific biological and business management subject areas.

Appreciate the interrelationships between individual disciplines within the field of equine science and performance horse management.

Demonstrate written and presentation skills to a professional standard. Express ideas using appropriate technical, practical and subject-specific nomenclature and

terminology. Identify problems and devise evidence-led strategies for their solution, to better manage

performance horses. 3.2 Research literacy

Demonstrate the skills required to pursue graduate careers or to embark upon post-graduate study.

Critically evaluate and apply subject-specific research. Design, perform, analyse and interpret investigative biological and equine business management

studies. Record and report scientific study findings in acceptable formats. Select and safely use appropriate laboratory and field techniques for the study of equines.

3.3 Critical self-awareness and personal literacy

Engage with an educational framework that promotes a sound knowledge-base and enables development of more advanced knowledge and skills through continued learning.

Demonstrate confidence and competence as an independent learner in order to improve employability.

Use a Problem-Solving approach to analyse information, think laterally about a problem, identify strategic options and evaluate the success of different strategies.

Develop interpersonal skills to enable effective contribution to group work. Engage in personal development to identify and develop personal values, set personal objectives,

manage time and tasks and evaluate one's own performance.

3.4 Digital and information literacy Use IT resources effectively and confidently as a communication tool, to access and manage

information, present ideas and adapt to the use of specialist software where relevant to the discipline.

Exploit IT to learn both independently and co-operatively, to find and organise information, for a wide range of academic skills (research, analysis, synthesis etc.) and to identify and evaluate personal learning strategies.

3.5 Global citizenship Demonstrate awareness and critical insight of the broader social context in which Equine Science

is embedded. Demonstrate knowledge of the internationalisation of the equine industry, specifically relating to

management practises, trans-frontier movements, legislation and disease control.

SECTION 4: PROGRAMME STRUCTURE AND CURRICULUM 4.1 Programme structure and requirements: **All modules are 15 credits unless indicated otherwise. Level 4 The Compulsory modules are: U14009 Skills for Life Scientists (30 credits) U16002 Equine Anatomy and Physiology (30 credits) U16003 Practical Horse Husbandry U16005 Equine Breeding and Stud Practice U16007 Equine Business The Alternative Compulsory modules are : 1 module from U16001 The International Thoroughbred Industry U16006 The Equine Industry Level 5 and 6 The acceptable modules are: U14533 Microbiology U14551 Haematology and Immunology U14582 Infection, Immunity and Immunology(Honours Component) U14588 Independent Study in Life Sciences(Honours Component) U14637 Research Methods for Sport and Health Sciences U15534 Developmental Biology U16020 Equine Behaviour U16021 Equestrian Event and Racecourse Management U16022 Equine Resource Management U16025 Equine Genetics U16030 Equine Reproductive Physiology and Endocrinology (30 credits) U16070 Equestrian Land Management (Honours Component) U16080 Equine Ethics and Welfare (Honours Component) U16081 Training and Developing the Athletic Horse (Honours Component) U16083 International Stud Management (Honours Component) U51037 International Business U58024 Introduction to People Management The following acceptable modules are compulsory for Honours Degree: U16024 Equine Medicine and Veterinary Techniques (30 credits) U16028 Equine Nutrition U16029 Equine Performance Science The following acceptable modules are also alternative compulsory for Honours Degree: 1 module from U15571 Evolution and Animal Development(Honours Component) (30 credits) U16082 Equine Injury and Rehabilitation(Honours Component) (30 credits) U16099 Dissertation or Final Project(Honours Component) (30 credits) The following acceptable modules are also alternative compulsory for Degree:

60 credits from U15571 Evolution and Animal Development(Honours Component) (30 credits) U16024 Equine Medicine and Veterinary Techniques (30 credits) U16028 Equine Nutrition U16029 Equine Performance Science U16082 Equine Injury and Rehabilitation(Honours Component) (30 credits) U16099 Dissertation or Final Project(Honours Component) (30 credits) The following acceptable modules are also alternative compulsory for Named Dip HE: 30 credits from U15571 Evolution and Animal Development(Honours Component) (30 credits) U16024 Equine Medicine and Veterinary Techniques (30 credits) U16028 Equine Nutrition U16029 Equine Performance Science U16082 Equine Injury and Rehabilitation(Honours Component) (30 credits) U16099 Dissertation or Final Project(Honours Component) (30 credits) 4.2 Professional requirements n/a SECTION 5: PROGRAMME DELIVERY 5.1 Teaching, Learning and Assessment Typically students will encounter 12 – 15 hours of contact time per week. This will be divided into taught lectures, seminars and tutorials, and where appropriate, some content may be delivered through a blended approach, making use of virtual learning technologies. Students will usually be assessed by a mixture of coursework and exams, dependent on module selections.

Teaching focuses on developing an in-depth understanding of theory, which is then brought to life by application to practical scenarios, and developing your skills for progression. Throughout, there is a focus on the importance of evidence-based decision making and critical evaluation of research relevant to the modules. Continued developments by programme staff ensure that this programme is characterised by an appropriate breadth and depth of content that is informed by relevant benchmark statements and contemporary research. The programme utilises a variety of interactive and engaging teaching, learning and assessment methods. Learning within sessions is active, with all students encouraged to participate in discussions and stimulate further thinking. All modules make use of the Brookes Virtual Learning Environment (typically for locating module resources, but often also for quizzes, blended learning sessions, coursework submissions and feedback). Assessment methods include essays, case-studies, reviews, laboratory/field notebooks, scientific reports, academic posters, online pages and oral presentations. All these activities develop Digital and Information literacy. Reflective learning is encouraged through use of self, peer and staff formative feedback on assignments, group work and project work, and reflective diaries (developing Critical self-awareness and personal literacy).

Co-ordinated implementation of the University Assessment Compact is designed to ensure that students’ progress towards meeting programme outcomes while experiencing diversity and balance in assessment practice within and between modules and equity in module workloads. We are committed to providing you with clear assessment criteria, and useful, timely feedback on all your work. The quality of academic provision for students is assessed regularly by programme teams, principally through annual student evaluation of each module, and through critical evaluation of the annual external examiner reports.

Students who wish to develop a research-orientation to their studies may do so through studying modules included in a research pathway, providing opportunities for students to undertake substantial research-based activities (e.g., drafting a research proposal, consultancy activity, final year project). These all develop Research literacy.

Active citizenship is embedded into the programme in a number of modules, particularly within the business and management themed pathways. Focus on globalisation, world economic influences and politics is highlighted where appropriate. 5.2 Assessment regulations The programme conforms to the University Regulations (UMP). Undergraduate Modular Programme Regulations can be found at http://www.brookes.ac.uk/regulations/current/specific/b2/

SECTION 6: ADMISSIONS 6.1 Entry criteria

Typical offers A-level: grades BBC or equivalent IB Diploma: 30 points We seek to admit students who have potential for degree level study and industry progression and accept that qualifications are not the only indicator of future potential. Typical offers also include:

A-level grades BB plus 2 AS-levels at grade C (equivalent to 280 UCAS tariff points). Students studying more than one science subject may receive a lower offer

1 12-unit vocational A-level grade BB plus 1 A-level or 2 AS-levels grade C other recognised qualifications, eg BTEC Nationals or Scottish qualifications (equivalent to 280

UCAS points).

Specific entry requirements A-Level: Must have studied science post-16, either at A-level or equivalent qualification. Preferred A-level subjects include Biology, Chemistry, PE and Maths. GCSE: Mathematics, English Language and Double Integrated Science (or equivalent) at grade C minimum If lacking a background in science, applicants are encouraged to consider the Foundation Degree in Equine Science and Management (which includes a top-up route to an honours degree qualification). 6.2 DBS checks DBS checks are not currently required in this subject area SECTION 7: STUDENT SUPPORT AND GUIDANCE The Oxford Brookes University Personal and Academic Support System (PASS) is gaining national and international recognition for its proactive approach to personal tutoring. It recognises that students need to make various adjustments as they move into higher education, whether from school or employment. The system encompasses three elements:

A structured group tutorial programme An academic adviser who will help you to plan their degree programme and future career Interaction with other students on your course.

The first stage includes regular seminars covering a wide range of subjects including research skills, understanding assessment criteria and making the most of coursework feedback. Our programme also helps you adjust to university life by developing your academic attributes. Secondly, our academic staff monitor your progress regularly to check that you are maximising your potential. If you experience academic difficulties we can arrange for you to receive academic mentoring support. This will be received in the format of tutorials with your academic advisor. Thirdly, if you are faced with challenges that affect your ability to study, such as personal issues, we will work with you in finding a way forward. There are also a number of general support services including learning and personal support services. These range from academic advisers and support co-ordinators to specialist subject librarians, career advisers and other learning support staff all designed to ensure that you get the best out of your studies. Careers guidance is supplied by academic staff who teach on the programme, on an individualised basis. Tutorials to discuss graduate progression and work placements can be arranged upon demand and will be complemented by the formation of the Mentor Panel, which puts students directly in touch with leading industry professionals for advice and networking.

SECTION 8: GRADUATE EMPLOYABILITY Graduates from this degree have progressed into a range of positions both within and outside of the Equine industry, and in postgraduate education. An example of the potential career pathways is summarised below but this is not an exhaustive list. There is a high rate of graduate employment and graduates continue to be mentored and supported by staff following graduation, helping them to make strong applications and secure employment in their desired area. Our alumni information tells us that graduates from the programme have gone on to destinations such as –

Stud Management positions Equine related administration – Weatherbys, bloodstock, Tattersalls Teaching – PGCE Event Management Feed companies – consultant/research/sales Pharmaceutical sales Marketing and recruitment roles Veterinary/research technicians Postgraduate courses:

Veterinary Science PhD study MSc Veterinary Physiotherapy Accountancy training

SECTION 9: LINKS WITH EMPLOYERS

A panel of Mentors is available to all students on Equine Science which allows students to

directly network and acquire support from industry professionals in a wide range of areas. Employers regularly perform guest lecture roles throughout the academic year to link theory with

practice and careers. Students are encouraged to make links with these employers and explore the opportunities they can offer in order to strengthen and develop their CVs.

Students are strongly encouraged to undertake work placements during vacation time in order to develop networking and contacts within the industry. This enables students to make links between their academic study and applied situations, while developing employment specific experiences and skills. This often leads to offers of further employment.

SECTION 10: QUALITY MANAGEMENT Indicators of quality/methods for evaluating the quality of provision External examiners reports are received once per academic year and give feedback regarding the processes in place and work reviewed by the external examiner. This information is used by the course team to action changes to the programme in future runs. Student module evaluations are carried out midway through each module as well as at the conclusion of the lectures, to gain feedback regarding student experience. This information is used to develop future runs of modules, as well as to pick up on any alterations which would be beneficial during the module in order to ensure students find the experience a very positive one. Annual student surveys are run each year for programme feedback. These collect feedback on a wide range of topics, from teaching and learning, assessment, to student support and facilities. The programme team also engage in regular employer liaison to ensure that the provision is suitable to ensure that the graduates are suitably equipped to hold a comprehensive understanding of the industry on graduation.