The Open College of Equine Studies World’s first distance learning MSc. in Equine Science

The Open College of Equine Studies, well known as an international leader in equine distance learning, is launching an exciting new MSc. in Equine Science. The course will be run by Dr Amanda Badnell-Waters, the college’s newly appointed Head of Equine Higher Education.

The Masters programme is designed to expand the depth of knowledge of equine and animal science graduates and the course is available on a flexible basis to benefit students with full-time jobs or other commitments.

Dr Badnell-Waters, who is well known for her research in the field of equine clinical behaviour, holds a PhD from the University of Bristol (department of Clinical Veterinary Science) as well as a BSc. (Hons.) degree in Animal Biology and a MSc. in Equine Science. She will run the MSc. Equine Science course, whilst continuing to develop research in the field of equine clinical behaviour in conjunction with TOCES and other research institutes.

Historically, the equine industry has been deficient in people with a thorough scientific education. However students completing the new MSc. in Equine Science will have gained an advanced level of scientific knowledge, which will be of direct use in many equine related areas of employment.

The taught part of the course, leading to a postgraduate diploma, is delivered via detailed study packs supported by a series of study weeks. A great benefit of The Open College being located close to Newmarket is that during study weeks students can visit centres of excellence such as The Animal Health Trust, Beaufort Cottage Equine Hospital and the National Stud. In addition, daily lectures will be delivered by leading experts with international reputations in their fields of research.

This section of the course is followed by a period of independent study during which a research dissertation is produced in order to attain the full Master of Science degree. Support is available to students throughout the course via tutorial sessions with specialist lecturers and study information supplied via the TOCES internet site.

MSc. graduates may progress to PhD. study or enter careers in equine/animal/veterinary scientific research, lecturing, consultancy or industry. Employment opportunities also exist in various areas of the commercial sector, including nutrition and feed development, therapy and rehabilitation, welfare organisations, pharmaceuticals, veterinary sales, insurance and marketing.

Enrolments onto the MSc. in Equine Science are being taken from July and the programme begins in October 2003. For further information on this and the wide range of TOCES courses available to suit all levels of knowledge contact TOCES, telephone: 01284 700703, email: enquiries@equinestudies.co.uk

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