Horses have enchanted people for generations with their intelligence, beauty, and incredible power. From transportation to therapy, people have turned to horses in a wide variety of ways. Those who love horses often want to know if they can make a career out of working with these wonderful animals.
There are a variety of different career paths that professionals can take to build a career they love working with these animals. Specific education and experience requirements will vary depending on which career path you ultimately wish to pursue. In this post we will walk you through some of the equine courses available so you can understand more about the topics you could study.
A Look into Equine Studies Careers
Courses in equine studies will cover a variety of topics relevant to those interested in working with horses, from more medical aspects of horse care, such as veterinary services, to subjects in riding instruction. Equine studies courses provide insight about the following equine careers:
- Barn manager
- Riding instructor
- Equestrian business owner
- Equine veterinary assistant
- Horse trainer
What Should I Major in to Work with Horses?
A Bachelor of Science in Equine Studies can be a great first step for those who want to learn more about working with horses. When studying with a program like Post, you get a thorough education in many different aspects of equine science and industry. Please note jobs and/or career outcomes highlighted in this blog do not reflect jobs or career outcomes expected from any Post program. To learn more about Post’s program and their outcomes, please fill out a form to speak with an admissions advisor.
Types of Equine Studies Degrees and Certificates
Pursuing a degree or certificate in equine studies can allow you to explore different concentrations and emphases related to these incredible animals. The courses for a BS in Equine Studies will give you a thorough introduction to equine science and equine welfare, including theory and best practices related to horses. You get to experience hands-on work with the animals themselves so that you are ready for the next professional step.
Concentrations in equine studies at Post include business management, equestrian coaching, equine wellness, and interdisciplinary studies. Each concentration provides courses specific to that area of study in addition to general degree core courses, so you are ready to thrive in your new career.
How Many Years Is an Equine Studies Degree?
If you want to earn a BS in Equine Studies, you will likely need to plan on four years of full-time instruction. This type of degree will provide you with a solid foundational knowledge of horses and the careers related to them. At Post, you can enroll in an accelerated course to complete the degree faster, but you will need to have access to horses for hands-on work with the animals within the core stable management courses.
Types of Equine Courses
As you begin your equine studies program, you will find that your courses cover various topics related to horses and their care. These courses will range from business ethics to equine nutrition and biology.
Here are some key courses you will likely encounter during your studies and some different study environment options you may encounter.
Online Equine Courses
Depending upon where you study, you may have access to online equine courses. When studying with online courses like those offered at Post, you can access your course materials and work toward your degree from the comfort and convenience of your own home.
Here are some of the core classes you will likely encounter in an equine studies program.
Equine Industry
The course called Exploring the Equine Industry will look closely at the role of the equine industry in our larger economy as well as the roles of horses in society. We also explore current events, animal rights and welfare, and the environmental impact of the equine industry.
Equine Care and Management
You will also take courses in taking care of horses and managing them. This particular course, examines best practices regarding the care and handling of horses, including how to prevent injuries and how to understand equine behavior.
Facility Design and Operation
The Facility Design and Operation course takes an in-depth look at what goes into building successful equine facilities. This includes how these horse-oriented environments are maintained and how the design impacts both equine welfare and the local environment. Students will understand best practices related to facility design and operation as well.
Stable Management Experience
In the Stable Management Experience course, students receive hands-on training with horses and pursue a deeper examination of how to run an equestrian business. Those in this field need a solid understanding of horses and how to keep them happy and healthy in domestication. Students leave the course with an understanding of how the animals’ daily care affects the business environment.
Equine Biology
The Equine Biology course gives students an essential understanding of the anatomy and physiology of horses and their equine cousins. Topics such as husbandry and how the horse’s unique biology impacts equine care and performance are thoroughly examined.
Equine Nutrition
Studies related to horses would be incomplete without a course on equine nutrition. Students will learn about the nutritional needs of horses and what goes into a quality equine diet. They will explore how the animals’ different jobs and life phases impact their dietary needs. For example, they will see what horses need when working, competing, at pasture, growing, reproducing, and in old age. This improves the level of care and the quality of life they can offer their horses.
Get Started Toward Your Degree in Equine Studies
If you have always wanted to work with horses, earning your degree in equine studies will get you started in the right direction. These core courses lead to specialty study in our different concentrations, so you can pursue the specific degree plan that aligns best with your professional interests. With the option of taking online equine courses, you will also find it easier to fit your classes around other responsibilities.
If you are ready to take the next step, come and learn more about the degree offerings at Post and see how they can help you pursue your vision of a career in the equine industry.
Thank you for reading! The views and information provided in this post do not reflect Post University programs and/or outcomes directly. If you are interested in learning more about our programs, you can find a complete list of our programs on our website or reach out directly!