Bachelor of Science in Equine Studies
Earn Your Equine Studies Degree Online at Post!Program Overview
Whether you have always loved horses or you developed an affinity for these magnificent animals over time, you know you want to keep them in your life. At Post University, we are here to support you as you work on turning this passion into the future. Our equine studies bachelor’s degree program is designed to help you explore any aspect of the industry, from equine science to horse management, safe barn practices, equine nutrition, and facility operation in a range of settings.
Coursework for your online Bachelor of Science in Equine Studies places a program-wide emphasis on interpersonal communication to help you better collaborate with established professionals in the equine industry. The curriculum is designed to offer the learning opportunities you could use to prepare for ethical and professional practice in the equine care industry by balancing practical, legal, fiscal, and humane concerns with a clear set of personal values. Your program also covers business-management tools such as marketing, management, accounting, and law as they apply to the equine industry.
In addition to the core curriculum, our BS in Equine Studies offers several concentrations to customize your education to your personal interests or professional goals. And it offers elective courses that could help you prepare for micro-credentialing opportunities outside of the University, such as the Instructor Certification Program offered by the American Riding Instructor’s Association (ARIA). The ARIA is a highly regarded program that promotes excellence in the profession of horseback riding instruction. We encourage our students to pursue micro-credentials such as this outside of their academic studies. There are requirements for the credential outside of the education offered in these courses.
Curriculum
Program Requirements – 120 Total Credits
Essential Skills Core: 21 Required Credits
General Education: 21 Required Credits
Major and Concentrations: 60 Required Credits
Open Electives: 18 Required Credits
Industry-Focused Curriculum for Professional Skills
Coursework for your program is designed to help you build the foundation of insights necessary to:
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Analyze, interpret, and evaluate information about the equine species and its surrounding industry
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Apply ethical thought and actions directly to concerns within the equine industry
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Build professionals skills—such as communication, critical thinking, and decision making—that transcend equine disciplines
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Evaluate complex problems affecting the equine industry and develop relevant solutions
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Communicate the benefits of the equine-human connection
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And more!
Concentrations
Equine Studies Concentrations
In addition to core coursework covering safe and effective horse management, stable management, and more, you will have the opportunity to customize your degree to your future goals with one of these concentrations:
Business Management
Though business principles are covered throughout the major, this concentration offers a more in-depth look at what it takes to start and manage an equine business. Courses include a range of basic and advanced business topics to support your goals in the horse industry.
Equestrian Coaching
With an emphasis on safe and productive teaching, as well as equine and human biomechanics, the equestrian coaching concentration explores how to teach horsemanship to pupils of all abilities. This concentration can also help you to prepare for one of the instructor certifications that are available outside of Post.
Equine Wellness
Whether you are interested in barn management or physical rehabilitation, working hands-on with horses requires a deep understanding of their biology and well-being. The equine wellness concentration covers equine locomotion and medical management. Complete your coursework with electives from the sciences, hoof trimming, equine massage, or veterinary assisting.
Interdisciplinary
This concentration lets you customize your courses to focus on the areas that interest you most.
Sample Courses
Introduction to Equine Studies
Horses are at the center of a powerful agricultural industry, with direct, indirect, and induced spending totaling over $100 billion dollars each year. This course looks closely at this industry and explores the equestrian culture that surrounds it. Students examine the roles of horses and other equines in our society, the duty of care placed on owners and caretakers, and the industry’s impact on land stewardship. Current events, various value systems, animal rights and welfare, and the history and future of the industry are all considered. This course is open to students in any major and does not require hands-on access to live horses.
Equine Care and Management
The equine is a domesticated hooved mammal that has evolved from a wild, herd-living, grazing, flight-oriented, prey species. This course examines best practices in the care and handling of equines based on the principles of evolution, duty of care, and sustainable horsekeeping. Topics addressed in the course include equine behavior, daily care and health needs, equestrian activities, tack and equipment, and emergency care. Safety is considered throughout, as are the business concerns of those involved in the care, custody, and control of animals.
Equine Biology
This course establishes a foundation for understanding the basic conformation and anatomy of the equine, in relation to body systems, specific organs, and the unique qualities and adaptations of equine species. Students will study the function and dysfunction of bodily processes with a focus on wellness, husbandry practices, and their influence on performance. The course will also address effective communication using appropriate terminology. Online students do not need hands-on access to a live horse to complete this course.
Equine Senior Seminar
This course is the culminating course for the equine major. It provides the opportunity for the student to plan, research, and complete an individual capstone project under the close supervision of a faculty member. Students will present the design and results of their work both in writing and orally within the class, with the opportunity to present for a public audience as well. This course requires students to integrate and apply the knowledge and skills gained throughout the degree program, developing a project that has the potential to create lasting change within the equine industry. Collaboration with others is a key component of this project development.
The sample courses listed are intended to illustrate the types of coursework included in this program. Course offerings and requirements may change. Please consult the official University Catalog for current and complete program information.
Licensing Disclosure
Licensure and Program Disclosures
Note: The Bachelor of Science in Equine degree is not designed to fulfill the educational requirements for any professional credential.
“I believe that learning is an infinite journey that transcends time, industry, and the rhythms of daily life. Just as every horse thrives under the care of knowledgeable, compassionate, and patient people, so do human students. Keep learning!”
Ready to Apply?
The admissions team is available to walk you through each step of the application process and clarify any remaining questions.
Accreditation
Institutional Accreditation
College (University) is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (formerly the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.). Inquiries regarding the accreditation status by the Commission should be directed to the administrative staff of the institution. Individuals may also contact:
New England Commission of Higher Education
301 Edgewater Place, Suite 210, Wakefield, MA 01880
(781) 425 7785
E-Mail: [email protected]
For more information on Post University's state licensure or accreditation, please visit the Accreditation page.
Undergraduate Admissions Requirements
Post University’s undergraduate admissions process is structured to be accessible for students planning to study online or on campus. All applicants must complete an admissions application and demonstrate high school completion or an equivalent credential.
Acceptable documentation includes:
- An official high school transcript showing graduation
- A General Education Development (GED) certificate or equivalent diploma
- A home-school transcript recognized by the student’s state
- An associate degree transcript
- Official college-level credit, typically 60 or more semester hours, that may apply toward a bachelor’s degree
Applicants are encouraged to connect with admissions advisors, including participating in an advisory session or interview, to support their transition into their selected program.
For detailed and format-specific requirements, including documentation and enrollment steps, please visit:
Why Students Choose Post University”
Tuition & Ways to Save
An education at Post University is designed to provide long-term value. Tuition is competitively structured, and financial aid opportunities are available for those who qualify. Admissions and financial aid teams work with you to review available options and explain each step of the process clearly.
With multiple funding opportunities available, you may qualify for more than you expect.
Tuition Reductions →
Tuition reductions are available for eligible active-duty military service members, veterans, public safety professionals, education partners, alumni, and others who qualify.
Scholarships →
Post University offers a variety of institutional scholarships. Dedicated scholarship advisors assist students in identifying both institutional and relevant external scholarship opportunities.
Financial Aid →
Federal financial aid programs are available for many degree programs for students who qualify.
Transfer Credits →
Post University will evaluate course credit completed at eligible institutions, as well as credit earned through approved examinations or prior learning experiences, for potential transfer.
Military Benefits →
Military education benefits extend to active-duty service members, reservists, veterans, their families, and eligible Department of Defense civilian employees.
Student Loans →
Federal and private loan programs may be available to students who qualify.
Tuition Reductions →
Tuition reductions are available for eligible active-duty military service members, veterans, public safety professionals, education partners, alumni, and others who qualify.
Scholarships →
Post University offers a variety of institutional scholarships. Dedicated scholarship advisors assist students in identifying both institutional and relevant external scholarship opportunities.
Financial Aid →
Federal financial aid programs are available for many degree programs for students who qualify.
Transfer Credits →
Post University will evaluate course credit completed at eligible institutions, as well as credit earned through approved examinations or prior learning experiences, for potential transfer.
Military Benefits →
Military education benefits extend to active-duty service members, reservists, veterans, their families, and eligible Department of Defense civilian employees.
Student Loans →
Federal and private loan programs may be available to students who qualify.
Ready to take the next steps?
Admissions advisors are available to answer your questions, explain the application process, and help you explore which program aligns with your interests and experience.
If you are considering Post University, we invite you to begin the conversation.
Why Post University?
At Post University, you are not an anonymous face in a crowded lecture hall. You are known and supported from your first conversation through program completion. That is the meaning behind Post Makes It Personal®.
Our approach is grounded in three commitments: career focus, value, and personalization. Whether you are beginning your undergraduate journey, returning to continue your education, or pursuing a graduate degree, Post University offers programs developed with professional practice in mind, led by industry-experienced faculty, and delivered in formats designed to fit into your life.
Post people come from many different backgrounds and life stages. Some are stepping onto campus for the first time, while others are learning online while balancing work, family, military service, or community commitments. Across every format, students are part of a community built on connection, structure, and shared purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Could I Do With a BS in Equine Studies Degree?
What Is an Equine Studies Degree?
An equine studies degree explores what it takes to pursue a future in the equine industry. At Post University, our program explores many aspects of the horse industry to provide personalized instruction in safe and effective horse management and extend your understanding of horses, donkeys, or mules into an area of specialty that will support your goals.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Equine Studies Degree?
The BS in Equine Studies degree from Post University typically takes students around four years to complete. Before enrolling in our online program, prospective students must prove they have independent access to hands-on work with a horse for the core Stable Management Experience course.
Can I Major in Equine Studies?
At Post University you can. Students in the Bachelor of Science in Equine Studies program benefit from a broad study of the equine industry and have the opportunity to build skills and a knowledge base in equine care and barn/stable management. As a student in the program, you will have the opportunity to develop critical thinking and communication skills that could be of use in a professional environment.
Do I Need a Degree to Work With Horses?
While a degree is not always necessary to work with horses, an equine studies degree can provide the opportunity to develop skills used in the equine industry.
The curriculum is designed to help students balance practical, legal, fiscal, and humane concerns with a clear set of personal values to better apply ethical thought to action in the field. Coursework also covers how to evaluate information and use it effectively for better industry practices.
Can I Earn an Online Equine Studies Degree?
Sure. With Post’s online platform, those working in the industry can fulfill their current workplace obligations while broadening their understanding of the equine field, from equine-assisted activities to facilities management.
Post also offers four online equine studies concentrations to help customize your studies to your goals: Business Management, Equestrian Coaching, Wellness, and Interdisciplinary.
What Classes Are Required for Equine Studies?
Post’s equine studies degree requires a total of 120 program credits, including: 60 general education credits, 54 major, core, and concentration credits, and 6 college-to-career core credits.
Courses involved cover topics such as the equine industry as a whole, equine nutrition, facility design and operation, horse care and management, business ethics, and more.
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