Read the college or university's mission statement. Take note of parts of the mission state that you can incorporate in the proposal. For instance, if the mission statement declares that the school will provide a diverse curriculum or promote learning outside the traditional classroom setting, take advantage of this language. Show the school that an equine program will advance the mission of the institution.
Write a course syllabus which outlines what an equine studies course would look like. Describe lesson plans for each meeting of class. Indicate any reading materials or required books. Provide examples of the kinds of assignments that would be required of students. Clearly explain how students will be tested and assessed. The course syllabus will demonstrate how thoughtfully you have organized your idea for equine studies classes.
Interview the student body and the faculty body to show that there is passion and desire for an equine studies program. Include in your proposal a few examples of students and faculty members that convincingly articulate the academic community's desire for such a program. Also argue that such a program would engage the community by attracting the attention of local equine enthusiasts.
Describe a successful equine studies program at another school. Use the model to show how such a program fits into the university curriculum and how it is supported by the academic community. Convince the board that in order to compete with other schools, it is imperative that the college offer an equine studies program.
Explain how such a program would be financed. Proving that there is a place in the budget for an equine studies program may be the most difficult part of your pitch. Meet with a representative of the college or university's finance committee to learn how you can best demonstrate in your proposal the financial practicality of an equine studies program.