10872NAT Diploma of Equitation Science

Nationally Accredited Horse Training Qualification

Introducing our Diploma of Equitation Science, the most comprehensive and unique approach to horse training available. Unlike other modern approaches, we begin with the traditional goals of all equestrian traditions and use evidence-based knowledge of equine cognition, learning, and ethology to create a pathway to success. Whether you’re interested in dressage, jumping, or any other equestrian sport, our unbiased approach will equip you with the knowledge and skills to begin your career.

Our in-hand training signals are intentionally designed to be similar to under-saddle signals, making it easy for your horse to understand. With shaping techniques and a focus on ethical animal training and human safety, our diploma is the perfect choice for anyone looking to take their equestrian skills to the next level. Enrol today and embark on a journey to success with our Diploma of Equitation Science.

Equitation = The art & practice of horsemanship & riding.

Science = Knowledge

Why study Equitation Science?

The Diploma of Equitation Science offers new and exciting career opportunities in the growing field of equitation science, both in Australia and internationally. Providing students with highly practical skills and in-depth knowledge of all aspects of horse handling, coaching and training, graduates are equipped with increasingly sought after skills in equine management, and are well placed at the forefront of evidence-based and ethical equine training practices. A broad, multi-discipline course, the Diploma of Equitation Science is suitable for anyone who handles horses, including:

Trainers and coaches
Equine veterinarians
Chiropractors
Physiotherapists
Complementary therapists
Farriers and barefoot trimmers
Horse property owners
Horse managers
Equestrian clubs and centres
Pony clubs and members
Racing stables and trainers
General horse enthusiasts, including parents

Diploma of Equitation Science

The Diploma of Equitation Science is a nationally recognised qualification with theoretical and practical components to ensure our graduates are highly competent in all areas of horse training and coaching.

Study from home with our online learning portal, and attend practical training at our workshops or have your practical skills assessed with our distance learning options (outlined in the course information pack below).

Subject areas include:

Fee Help: VET Students Loans

Equitation Science International Pty Ltd is an approved VET Student Loans provider for Australian students enrolling into 10872NAT Diploma of Equitation Science.

What is a VET Student Loan?

A VET Student Loan (otherwise known as VSL) is a loan offered by the Australian government to cover your tuition fees. The loan is repayable via the taxation system once students reach the minimum income threshold.

Apply now for our next intake, closing in:

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Applications close: January 15th, 2024
Term 1 commences: January 29th 2024

Enrolment procedure

Enrolment can take up to 5 days. Ensure you are prepared with the following:

Enquire here to ask questions and request an enrolment pack

View our online portal demonstration

Student Community

As a student of the Diploma of Equitation Science, you join a growing community of like-minded horse professionals and enthusiasts. Students are invited to join a discussion group to share in and contribute ideas during their study. After completing their Diploma, graduates are invited to join a private group to stay in touch with fellow students, former graduates and the team at Equitation Science International Pty Ltd. Graduates are also invited to attend bi-ennial trainers conferences.

Entry Requirements

The ability to ride a horse in walk, trot and canter demonstrating control and balance.

Enrolment and Payment

The cost of the entire course is AU$10,300.00. Pay per unit and payment plans are also available. VET Student Loans are available for eligible Australian Students

Recognised Prior Learning

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is the acknowledgment of skills and knowledge obtained through formal training, work experience and/or life experience. The purpose of this process is to identify and assess previously acquired skills and knowledge against the required competency standards. Course participants applying for RPL must provide evidence to the satisfaction of ESI. This evidence must clearly indicate that the applicant is able to demonstrate all of the required skills and knowledge for the unit in question. Information and documentation regarding the application procedure for RPL and/or Credit Transfers will be made available to all participants upon request.

NAT units (NAT10872001-004) are not available for RPL.

Frequently Asked Questionsere

View our list of FAQ’s here.

If there is a question you do not find the answer to, don’t hesitate to contact us.

More Information

To learn more about studying at Equitation Science International (Australia) Pty Ltd, please use our enquiry form

2023 workshop dates

NAT10872002

Term 1: April 26th
Term 2: August 11th
Term 3: November 23rd

NAT10872004

Term 1: April 26th
Term 2: August 11th
Term 3: November 24th

Student feedback

“This has been an incredibly interesting experience and in all honesty, completely life-changing. I’m excited to move forward and continue working with it all! Thank you especially for all your support and your help during my studies”

“Completing the ESDip has provided me with the skills necessary to implement and teach safe, ethical and sustainable training methods. This knowledge has proved extremely beneficial in addressing behavioural issues in the ridden horse. I particularly enjoy retraining retired race horses, and helping others do the same, by addressing behavioural issues and assisting them (the horse) in finding a purposeful and content life after racing. I am so grateful to have discovered Equitation Science which has significantly enhanced my skills as a coach and trainer, and I am certain my own horses are very appreciative too!”

“It’s been so great studying, I have learned so much and seen such a positive difference in training of my horses and other horses I have worked with! This diploma has given me so much valuable skills and knowledge and I’m excited to see where I can take it, so a big thank you to the ESI team”

“Thank you so much to the team at ESI for making this opportunity available and teaching me all about the world of equitation science. I will do my best to help change the horse world one horse at a time!”

“The ESI diploma course has been such an influence on my life and direction with horses and I am so grateful that it found me when I so desperately needed it”

“I have very much enjoyed my journey with ESI. It has really opened my eyes, clarified and simplified horse training, and to be honest, I really don’t know how I ever taught my horses anything before! Thank you for all the support!”

I am beyond pleased to have gained the qualification, as it is such a well regarded course and I must say the journey to develop skills to train my horse has been well worth it. I rode today and felt I have so much more to offer my horse now thanks to the skills the course teaches and there is much more clarity and peace in the process. I found the course to be delivered in a supportive way that showed respect and consideration for my disability (dyslexia). This has meant a lot to me personally to overcome barriers with previous studies as I had felt my contribution was diminished in other courses by the emphasis on my faults inherently linked to my disability. It is a credit to Helen [course tutor] how she has approached my issues here with understanding and empathy. Helen has been supportive overall to take into consideration many factors with my study, it has been by far my best study experience.