Equine Science

Equine Science Basic Certificate curriculum focuses on the business and managerial aspects of running an equine facility, whether this is as a sole proprietor or for a public, working ranch, or private equine facility. Some careers available to graduates include Breeding Farm/General Farm Management, Vet Technician, Bloodstock Agent, Horse Show Manager, Sales Prep and Marketing, and a variety of related Industry Retail/Sales.

The program is designed to take one semester to complete. Upon completion of the Basic Certificate, you will be able to:

• Propose managerial practices relevant to the equine industry.

• Evaluate form to function regarding conformation, and performance of horses.

• Utilize relevant computer programs commonly used in equine businesses.

Equine Science Certificate curriculum focuses on the physiology of reproduction as well as the business and management aspects of this side of the equine industry. Some careers available to graduates include Breeding Farm/General Farm Management, Vet Technician, Laboratory and Research vocations, Pedigree Analysis, Bloodstock Agent, Sales Prep and Marketing, and related Industry Retail/Sales.

This certificate is only offered in-person. The program takes one year to complete. Upon completion of the Level 1 Workforce Certificate, you will be able to:

• Identify the major horse breeds and describe their characteristics.

• Demonstrate correct and safe handling of horses.

• Discuss the management practices used at a breeding farm and the reasoning behind these practices.

• Perform basic skills necessary for employment at a typical breeding operation.

• Restate proper management procedures during gestation and foaling, as well as basic semen collection, evaluation, insemination, and semen transportation.

Course work in the Equine Science Degree focuses on the physiological and behavioral science aspects of the horse and related industry professions. The curriculum prepares you for transfer of credits toward a Bachelor's Degree in Equine or Agriculture-related degree. Some careers available to graduates include Vet Technician, Breeding Farm/General Farm Management, Training/Riding Instructor, College Professor/Instructor, Extension Horse Specialist, and AG Agent, and Equine Pharmaceuticals, Equine Nutritionist, and related Industry Retail/Sales.

This degree is completed primarily in-person, but some of the core curriculum requirements may be completed online. The program takes two years to complete. Upon completion of the Associate of Applied Science Degree, students will be able to:

• Discuss various diseases and ailments in a horse.

• Perform basic medical care of horses.

• Identify lameness that afflicts horses.

• Summarize the functional components of a bit and explain the action of different bit types in the horse's mouth.

• Explain the anatomy and physiology of the horses' digestive system.

• Recommend nutritional consideration and feeding practices to meet the needs of individual horses.

Capstone Requirement: AGEQ 2386 Internship - Equestrian/Equine Studies is the capstone requirement and may not be substituted. It should be taken the last semester before graduation.