Bloodstock and Performance Horse Management

This intensive, one-year course in Bloodstock and Performance Horse management is unique to the Royal Agricultural University. It is designed to provide a stepping-stone into the equine sector and support those interested in a career in the UK's world leading bloodstock and performance horse industry. A graduate diploma is a UK qualification that is a recognised higher education FHEQ Level 6 qualification, equivalent to a final year undergraduate programme, that is often used as a conversion degree supporting students to develop a new disciplinary focus, in this case the UK bloodstock and performance horse industry.

The equine industry in the UK is diverse and covers a range of different sectors including horse racing and bloodstock production, the sport horse sector including the Olympic disciplines and the leisure sector. Each of these areas in turn are served by a range of organisations providing goods and services, and the sport side of the industry also supports wider industries such as leisure, tourism and hospitality.

Within this programme there is a strong focus on the breeding and production of horses for racing and performance. You will study the underpinning principles of equine reproductive physiology and genetics, which is then built upon to cover modern approaches to equine breeding and stud management, including assisted reproductive technologies as used in the sports horse sector. You will gain unique insight into the production of bloodstock in the UK context, as well as the place of the UK within the global bloodstock industry. Teaching will also cover the most recent development in training and performance optimisation across a range of equestrian sports, as well as orthopaedic injuries and rehabilitation practices. This content is supported with trips and visits to racing yards and studs both local to the university and in Newmarket, the racing capital of the UK, alongside an optional study tour to Ireland.

It is likely that you will have already acquired elsewhere a range of intellectual and transferable skills. However, this programme enables you to:

Understand the scientific theory behind the practical application of performance horse management
Focus on the breeding, genetics and production of bloodstock
Explore the training and sports physiology of performance horses
Achieve a blend of science theory and practical industry visits for the application of knowledge
You will be taught by lecturers with extensive industry experience and high profile, research-active academics who will inspire your studies and set you on the path to becoming an equine professional, equipping you with the knowledge and skills you need to understand and address challenges within the industry.

You will study six modules, working on case studies, assignments, and management projects as well as visits to equine businesses.

Prospective students are strongly encouraged to complete pre-course reading in order to secure a minimum basic knowledge of equine anatomy and physiology to prepare you for the rest of the course.

Course Modules

4Q002 Equine Breeding and Genetics: This module explores equine reproductive science and genetics, covering anatomy, physiology, fertility, and breeding technologies. Topics include inheritance, coat colour, performance traits, and foal management. Students engage in lab work and industry visits. Assessment includes a 1000-word academic poster and a 90-minute written exam. The module supports critical evaluation of breeding practices, genetic traits, and reproductive management in equine contexts.

5Q001 Bloodstock Production: This module examines Thoroughbred breeding and youngstock development. Topics include pedigree analysis, conformation, genetic assessment, and contemporary industry issues such as welfare and wastage. Students engage with guest lectures, practicals, and visits to studs and sales. Assessment includes a 1500-word advisory article and a 2-hour written exam. The module supports critical evaluation of breeding strategies, performance prediction, and ethical considerations in bloodstock production.

6Q004 Equine Orthopaedics & Rehabilitation: This module explores equine orthopaedic disease, injury prevention, and rehabilitation. Topics include diagnostic imaging, discipline-specific injuries, physiotherapy, and treatment strategies. Students engage with case studies, lab sessions, and hospital visits. Assessment includes a 2500-word knowledge summary and a scientific poster presentation. The module supports critical evaluation of equine musculoskeletal health and evidence-based rehabilitation practices.

6Q002 Advances in Equine Training and Performance: This module examines contemporary training methods and technologies to optimise equine performance. Topics include biomechanics, welfare, tack innovations, and regulatory frameworks. Students engage with guest lectures, debates, and research analysis. Assessment includes a 1500-word article for a lay audience and a 2-hour seen exam. The module supports critical evaluation of training strategies and evidence-based approaches to equine athletic development.

6Q003 Breeding and Stud Management: This module investigates reproductive biology and stud farm operations across sport horse and bloodstock sectors. Topics include mare and stallion selection, assisted reproductive technologies, health management, and industry challenges. Students engage with field visits, guest lectures, and practical sessions. Assessment includes a 10-minute oral presentation and a 2-hour seen exam. The module supports critical evaluation of breeding strategies and sustainable stud management.

6Q005 The Global Bloodstock Industry: This module examines the structure, challenges, and opportunities within the global Thoroughbred breeding and racing sectors. Topics include international industry comparisons, welfare, economics, and emerging markets. Students engage with guest lectures, debates, and an optional study tour. Assessment includes a 2500-word racing series proposal and a 2500-word breeding industry review. The module supports critical evaluation of global bloodstock systems and strategic development planning.

The availability of electives to individual students will be dependent on timetabling considerations and on sufficient students electing to take part.

https://www.rau.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/graduate-diploma-bloodstock-performance-horse