Major code AA5017
Ohio University–Southern offers a two-year program leading to the Associate in Applied Science with a major in equine studies. The program is designed for students who seek enjoyment and/or employment as trained professionals in the horse industry. Positions you might be prepared to pursue upon graduation will vary with the elective equine courses you choose. Possible areas of employment are stable manager, farm manager, riding instructor, equine secretary or records manager, equine sales and marketing agent, horse trainer or assistant trainer, equine journalist, horse show or event manager, horse show judge, national breed association representative, and equine photographer or artist. For additional information, contact the equine studies program coordinator.
Students in the Equine Studies program must complete one of the following tracks:
- Track A: Riding Instructor Track
- Track B: Assistant Trainer Track
- Track C: Farm Management and Farm Business Track
- Track D: Pre-animal Science and Pre-veterinary Technology Track
Track A: Riding Instructor Track
The emphasis is on developing appropriately trained riding instructors who will seek national certification upon completion of the program.
Track B: Assistant Trainer Track
The emphasis is on developing assistant trainers with sufficient riding experience to begin assisting professional trainers.
Track C: Farm Business and Farm Management Track
The emphasis is on the business and management of a commercial equine business. Students will develop business plans, participate in day-to-day management of the Ohio Horse Park as well as learn supervision skills.
Track D: Pre-animal Science and Pre-veterinary Technology Track
This track is for those who want to work assisting veterinarians or for those interested in completing veterinary school. The track prepares students who want to pursue a higher degree to transfer into a bachelor’s degree program that would lead to veterinary school.