Equine Science – Bachelor of Animal Science

Massey University

New Zealand, Palmerston North

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Massey University

New Zealand , Palmerston North

Key Facts

Program Level

Bachelor

Study Type

Full Time

Delivery

On Campus

Campuses

Manawatū campus (Palmerston North)

Program Language

English

Start & Deadlines

Next Intake DeadlinesMay-2026

Apply to this program

Go to the official application for the university

Duration 3 year(s)

Next Intake May-2026

Equine Science – Bachelor of Animal Science

About

Specialise in Equine Science for your Bachelor of Animal Science at Massey

The Bachelor of Animal Science (Equine Science) will help you understand nutrition, growth, health and performance in the equine athlete.

What will I learn?

The equine industry is large, diverse and economically important both in New Zealand and worldwide. You’ll be prepared for a wide variety of equine enterprises anywhere in the world.

The Equine Science major will give you knowledge of equine welfare, behaviour and health. You’ll also gain an understanding of performance nutrition and responses to training of horses.

Learn from the best

Massey University’s animal, agricultural and veterinary science professionals are among the best in the world. They will teach you about the latest developments in animal science. You will obtain a solid base in equine science. You’ll also learn about animal welfare, nutrition and growth as well as genetics and breeding.

Research-led learning

Massey has a number of internationally recognised animal-based research centres including the Equine Research Centre and Equine Parentage Genetic Services Centre.

Join a world-leading university

Massey University is home to the only animal science team in New Zealand and one of the largest in Australasia. As an animal science student, you will benefit from our internationally-recognised capability and leadership in these areas.

Requirements

Entry Requirements

Admission to Massey

All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University.

Massey University entry requirements

Specific requirements

There are no specific entry requirements for this qualification, outside of university admission regulations.

To study this qualification you must meet Massey University's English language standards.

Expected high school preparation

Knowledge gained in the following NCEA subjects (or the equivalent in Cambridge International Examinations, International Baccalaureate, or similar) will give you the expected background knowledge to succeed in this qualification.

At least 14 credits in NCEA Level 3 Biology.
At least 14 credits in NCEA Level 3 Chemistry.

English language skills

If you need help with your English language skills before you start university, see our English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses.

Can't meet the entry requirements?

If it’s some time since you have studied mathematics at school you can find out if you have the required background by taking this maths quiz.

Haven’t studied the right subjects at high school?

The following pathways will get you prepared to study this qualification:

If you have not studied NCEA Level 3 Biology (or equivalent) take the following course first:

162103 Introductory Biology

If you have not studied NCEA Level 3 Chemistry (or equivalent) take the following course first:

123103 Chemistry for Modern Sciences.

These courses are available in summer school and can be taken as a Certificate in Science and Technology or Certificate of Proficiency. One 100-level course can be counted as an elective towards the Bachelor of Animal Science.

English Program Requirements

English Evidence Academic IELTS^: 6.0 overall and minimum 5.5 in each band

English Evidence TOEFL iBT: Overall score 80, minimum 19 in Writing

English Evidence Pearson Test of English (PTE): 50 overall and minimum 42 in each communicative skills

Career

The equine industry is large, diverse and economically important both in New Zealand and worldwide. The equine major will prepare you for a career in a wide variety of equine enterprises anywhere in the world. You’ll acquire a broad understanding of health and production issues, and be able to offer the equine industry up-to-date, scientifically-based knowledge.

The Bachelor of Animal Science will provide you the knowledge, attributes and expertise you require for the careers of the future.

Potential employers include equine regulatory, breeding, racing, breed, and sport organisations, and other equine enterprises in New Zealand and around the world. Roles could be in:

equine regulatory bodies
stud farm management
racing and breeding industries
sport organisations
other equine enterprises in New Zealand and around the world.

Sought-after by employers

The production and companion animal industries, government departments and agencies, iwi-owned agribusinesses recognise the importance of animal science in what they do and employ our graduates.