Several different areas of study are available for the equine studies major. Focus on stud farm management for those interested in equine breeding. Courses within stud farm management include genetics, nutrition, equine health and reproduction. This is also a popular choice for students wanting to pursue graduate studies in equine sciences, and well as those interested in becoming a veterinarian. Another option is therapeutic horsemanship. This looks at horses and their role in dealing and bonding with individuals that have disabilities. Students will learn how horses have an emotional, psychosocial, physical and cognitive effect on humans with special challenges and needs.
Bachelor degrees are available for those individuals interested in training horses or teaching horsemanship and riding. Individuals will learn how to manage an equine facility, the training practices, horse care, accounting, the different riding techniques and other horse science topics.
Equestrian facility management is a degree program that interests horse lovers who want to oversee the care of horses and deal with a business. Learn about how to manage an equestrian facility, including training farms, competition stables, sales facilities and boarding barns, and study equine nutrition, equine health and more. This degree is usually offered as a bachelor of science.
An entrepreneurship program looks at several disciplines within equine studies. This is a popular degree as more than half of all animal trainers, including horse trainers, are self employed. Learn about core business management paired with the appropriate equine studies courses so you can become a successful trainer and owner while having the necessary knowledge to run your own business. Topics normally covered include business management courses, equine health, equine economy, horse care, psychology, business statistics, business law and new venture planning.
Equine health care programs usually fall under animal science degrees, with a specific concentration in equine studies. One such program inovles pre-veterinary courses paired with equine studies courses. This interest in health care is best for those interested in equine research, equine veterinary work or medical research. The bachelor's degree is the first step in receiving an advanced degree, such as a master's or doctorate in equine health care.