Find your perfect college degree
Facts and Stats
- In 2023, the total value added from the equine sector* was $177 billion, up from $122 billion in 2017.
- The equine sector has a substantial impact on employment with 2.2 million jobs linked to it both directly and indirectly.
- Of the 127,131 veterinarians in the US, equine veterinarians** account for only 4.1% of the overall clinical practice.
If you are passionate about horses, you might want to consider pursuing a career in the equine industry. Fortunately, there are numerous colleges in the country that offer equine studies courses.
Equine studies can encompass different disciplines and career choices within the horse industry. Some of the common courses for undergraduate students include equine science, equine management, equine business management, stable management, and equine anatomy, among others.
Most programs involve a hands-on curriculum, which proves to be integral to a successful career at an equine university.
The Lowdown
The equine industry has a great impact on the U.S. economy, valued at $177 billion. Those who want to pursue an equine studies major to acquire the necessary training they need to make it big in the horse industry can do so by enrolling in a respected college or university.
10 Best Equine Studies Degree Programs
Do you love horses and intend to make a career out of your passion for these majestic animals? Whether you are into riding horses or managing equine-related businesses, it pays to check out the best colleges offering the degrees or courses that take you closer to your goal!
Learning about the degree requirements for equine studies is your first step in preparing for a formal education in this discipline.
University of Kentucky
Lexington, Kentucky
Bachelor’s in Equine Science and Management
Located in Kentucky, the horse capital of the world, the University of Kentucky offers hands-on learning opportunities for undergraduate students who wish to earn equine studies courses.
Students can take advantage of the prestigious Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, the only scientific institute in the country that conducts research in equine health and diseases.
Their Equine Science and Management courses put a strong emphasis on basic science and business concepts that are widely applicable to equine production and management.
Offered under the College of Agriculture, Food, & Environment, the program covers scientific disciplines including physiology, nutrition, and genetics of horses. The degree also teaches students valuable skills and knowledge that are useful to the operations and management of an equine business. You need to complete a total of 123 credit hours to earn the program.
Auburn University
Auburn, Alabama
Bachelor in Animal Sciences – Major in Equine Science
A leading institution when it comes to equine teaching, Auburn University boasts of housing the Auburn equestrian team, famous for winning 6 national championships.
In collaboration with the Department of Animal Sciences, the Auburn University Equestrian Center provides research and training opportunities for undergraduate students pursuing the Equine Science major.
The courses in Equine Science focus on the practical skills for a successful career in the horse industry, particularly those that have to do with animal behavior and well-being. The Equine Science major’s curriculum includes courses such as Equine Nutrition, Equine Production and Management, Forage Production and Utilization, and many more.
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, Colorado
Bachelor’s in Equine Sciences
As the first land-grant university to offer a four-year course in Equine Science, Colorado State University’s equine science program is a pioneer in research, encompassing equine lameness, production, nutrition, and orthopedics.
Housed under the College of Agricultural Sciences, the Equine Sciences program offers foundational courses in different areas of the horse industry. Some of the courses included are equine behavior, equine management, horse training and sales preparation, principles of equine nutrition, and riding instruction training, among others.
Colorado State University is also home to the B.W. Pickett Equine Teaching and Research Center, serving the equine program along with equine interests at the local, regional, and national levels.
Murray State University
Murray, Kentucky
Bachelor of Science in Agriculture – Major in Equine Science
Murray State University is home to the Equine Center where the Equine Science program is offered. The program is a combination of traditional classroom learning and hands-on opportunities. Students can also join relevant and enriching teams for equine-assisted activities, including the Intercollegiate Horse Show and Rodeo.
Offered as a major in the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture program, the Equine Science concentration covers essential areas of equine studies such as equine health care, reproduction, nutrition, and business management. Students can enjoy the indoor and outdoor practice arenas, with available stalls to store their horses.
University of Findlay
Findlay, Ohio
Bachelor of Science in Equine Business Management
The University of Findlay offers several programs under the Equine Studies discipline. This includes English, Western, and Equine Business Management.
Each of the programs has its own focus, from dressage and colt breaking to trail showmanship and horsemanship. They are integral to those who want to pursue their passion and interests in working with horses.
The Equine Business Management program blends courses in equine marketing and law with hands-on barn management experience. It has a strong science core, focusing on equine science, nutrition, and reproduction.
At the same time, it offers business-based courses such as the principles of marketing, farm and stable management, and principles of management, among others.
Alfred University
Alfred, New York
Equestrian Studies – Minor Program
Those whose interests lie in horses can find a great opportunity at Alfred University with its Equestrian Studies offered as a minor and can be combined with an existing major. The minor program allows undergraduate students to choose among two course options – English and Western Riding. They will be able to access the state-of-the-art facility at the Maris Cuneo Equine Park and the Bromley-Daggett Equestrian Center.
The Equestrian Studies Minor Program program requires the completion of 16 credit hours, eight of which must be devoted to theory and four in activity courses.
The core courses include English Riding, Introduction to Dressage, Combined Training, and more. Students are also allowed to choose their preferred elective.
Emory & Henry College
Emory, Virginia
Bachelor of Arts in Equine Studies
Emory & Henry College is an ideal choice for those who want to ride competitively or earn a degree in Equine Studies. With an emphasis on the mechanism of the horse, the program encompasses traditional horsemanship and the workings of ride position.
A nationally recognized program, the Equine Studies degree has four specializations: Equitation, Dressage, Show Hunters, and Combined Training. The curriculum expands to schooling, teaching, judging, horse show management, anatomy, first aid, and equine nutrition.
The program aims to produce well-rounded graduates in preparation for a fruitful career in the horse industry.
William Woods University
Fulton, Missouri
Bachelor of Science in Equine General Studies
As one of the most prestigious universities when it comes to equestrian studies, William Woods University boasts 90 years of equestrian leadership. It is known to combine a strong theoretical foundation with practical skills such as riding, teaching, and training for a successful equine career.
Students will not only learn inside the classroom but also gain experience in the field through field trips, clinics, seminars, and shows.
In this equine general studies program, you will be able to prepare for a career beyond the horse industry, from organizing and fundraising to promotion and purchasing. The major is designed in a way that allows you to expand with a second major. Plus, you will be able to customize it according to your personal career and goals.
St. Andrews University
Laurinburg, North Carolina
Bachelor of Arts in Therapeutic Horsemanship
Designed to help students meet their career goals in the equine industry, St. Andrew University’s equestrian program is perfectly positioned to provide valuable learning and hands-on experience with its rigorous curriculum and equestrian center.
One of the equine-related majors on offer, the undergraduate degree in Therapeutic Horsemanship was the first of its kind in the country. This program provides you with a unique perspective to help others experience the benefits of horses.
This undergraduate major leads to jobs such as administrators, equine specialists, horse managers, instructors, and volunteer coordinators.
Centenary University
Hackettstown, New Jersey
Bachelor of Science in Equine Studies
The equine studies program at Centenary University puts emphasis on real-world experiences. On top of theoretical foundation, students can take part in internships in various forms, from breeding and training stables to therapeutic riding programs and veterinary practices and clinics.
The curriculum for this degree covers diverse equine topics such as facilities management, theories in riding, wellness, nutrition, and judging. You will also gain comprehensive instruction in the care and management of horses along with equine facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Equine Studies?
In a nutshell, equine studies programs refer to the in-depth study of horses, including the caring and training of horses, stable management, and other riding disciplines.
It is a good foundation for those who want to make it big in the equine industry. Some emphasize equine science, and others are more focused on equine business.
What can you do with an Equine Studies course?
The equine studies courses can help one obtain employment in various areas of the equine industry. Some programs lead to a host of employment opportunities within the horse industry.
This includes training horses, managing stables, show coaching, and even teaching private lessons. Others go on to manage the business side of the equine field.
What are the requirements to enter an Equine Science program?
Admission requirements can vary from university to university. Some require appropriate GCSE and relevant practical experience in the equine industry, along with a keen interest in horses. Others might need to conduct an assessment before you can get admitted into the program.
Summary Points
- Working with horses can be a rewarding career, even more so if you love horses!
- The Equine Studies programs offered by various universities in the country can provide you with a solid foundation to pave the way for a successful career in the equine industry.
Additional Resources:
