Course Summary
Animal Science – Equine allows those with a passion for horses, the equine industry or equine science to pursue these interests at third level and still maintain a broad range of future career options within agriculture. A highlight of the degree is the opportunity to participate in a 5-month international work placement within a leading Thoroughbred or Sport Horse organisation. The degree provides the scientific knowledge and transferable skills necessary for professional leadership roles within many aspects of the Agriculture and Equine industries.
Student View - Eimear Doherty
I chose Animal Science - Equine as I hoped it would offer me the opportunity to learn about the practical and theoretical aspects of the equine industry.
During my four years, I completed a diverse range of modules from nutrition and genetics to farm business management and equine industries. The lecturers that teach us in the equine science programme are leading scientists in their respective fields, offering up to date insights into current research. The structure of the course offers both classroom learning and practical hands-on experience.
Field trips were an important learning experience for me as we visited a number of key locations relevant to the course such as Goffs, the Irish National Stud and UCD Lyons Farm. A core aspect of the degree is the practical element.
By far, the highlight of my time in UCD was my professional work experience in third year. I travelled to Australia to work for Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott Racing, one of the most prestigious yards in Australia.
Whilst working abroad, I was exposed to and gained an in-depth knowledge of the international thoroughbred industry. The five-month placement offers you an opportunity to work with and develop contacts within the industry.
Graduating with a Bachelor of Agricultural Science qualification provides an excellent foundation moving into the working world, and the equine aspect of the degree offers a broad range of career opportunities.
View the UCD School of Agriculture and Food Science, Undergraduate Programmes prospectus here
College Link
Career Sectors
This course prepares you for working in the Career Sectors below. Follow the links to get a fuller understanding of the sectors you are preparing for.
Language Options
Language options with this course
The following language options are available to study as part of this programme:
Availability of modules will be subject to timetable, places available and module requirements, more information can be found at the UCD Horizons page.
Availability of modules will be subject to timetable, places available and module requirements, more information can be found at the UCD Horizons page.
Availability of modules will be subject to timetable, places available and module requirements, more information can be found at the UCD Horizons page.
Availability of modules will be subject to timetable, places available and module requirements, more information can be found at the UCD Horizons page.
Availability of modules will be subject to timetable, places available and module requirements, more information can be found at the UCD Horizons page.
Availability of modules will be subject to timetable, places available and module requirements, more information can be found at the UCD Horizons page.
Availability of modules will be subject to timetable, places available and module requirements, more information can be found at the UCD Horizons page.
Availability of modules will be subject to timetable, places available and module requirements, more information can be found at the UCD Horizons page.
Availability of modules will be subject to timetable, places available and module requirements, more information can be found at the UCD Horizons page.
Availability of modules will be subject to timetable, places available and module requirements, more information can be found at the UCD Horizons page.
Availability of modules will be subject to timetable, places available and module requirements, more information can be found at the UCD Horizons page.
Availability of modules will be subject to timetable, places available and module requirements, more information can be found at the UCD Horizons page.
Availability of modules will be subject to timetable, places available and module requirements, more information can be found at the UCD Horizons page.
Availability of modules will be subject to timetable, places available and module requirements, more information can be found at the UCD Horizons page.
* Time abroad utilising this language
Disclaimer: Details subject to change - always check with the college.
Entry Requirements
Disclaimer: Details subject to change - If this is a course you are considering applying for you should check on the Colleges' website to ensure you have the latest entry requirements information.
To view Mature Entry requirements, or alternative requirements, please visit Qualifax or the Colleges' website
If you believe the data above to be incorrect, please let us know at [email protected] - thank you.
QQI / FET Links
PLC courses leading to the following QQI Major Awards may be used for entry into this course.
Search for PLC Courses offering these awards
(Click on the Codes)
| Note: Information for 2025 Entry | |
| Award Code | Award Title |
| 5M2586 | Horticulture |
| 5M2768 | AnimalCare |
| 5M3807 | Laboratory Techniques |
| 5M5267 | Food Science |
Points Calculator for QQI Awards:
Details of the QQI scoring system and a points calculator can be found HERE
The Student
Career Interests
This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Naturalist
Not surprisingly, some aspect of the natural sciences will run through the Naturalist's interests - from ecological awareness to nutrition and health. People with an interest in horticulture, land usage and farming (including fish) are Naturalists.
Some Naturalists focus on animals rather than plants, and may enjoy working with, training, caring for, or simply herding them. Other Naturalists will prefer working with the end result of nature's produce - the food produced from plants and animals. Naturalists like solving problems with solutions that show some sensitivity to the environmental impact of what they do. They like to see practical results and prefer action to talking and discussing.
Career Progression
In addition to the career opportunities available to Animal Science graduates, Animal Science Equine graduates are equipped to pursue careers in: Equine enterprise management, Equine leisure, recreation and tourism activities, Equestrian marketing and sales enterprises, Sports journalism, and Academic teaching.
You can pursue equine science research and development careers, and Master’s and PhD opportunities in Europe and the US.
Further Research
DISCLAIMER: These links are to official sources of information for this course - we accept no responsibility for the information on them.
