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Vermont Technical College: Technology Driven. Results Proven.
Equine Studies

The Equine Studies bachelor's degree program is designed for students who are passionate about working with and learning about horses and who are interested in career opportunities in the equine industry. Students graduating with a degree in Equine Studies can explore a variety of opportunities, depending on their areas of interest. Careers in direct equine service facilities include barn manager, instructor, or assistant trainer. Job opportunities in businesses supporting the equine industry include equine consultant, sales, marketing, specialized service provider, and many other limited only by graduates' imaginations.

The Core Equine Studies program is a combination of theory and hands-on experience working with horses and clients. The curriculum provides foundation in a range of topics designed to increase student success in the workplace after graduation. Specific equine topics include equine anatomy and disorders, nutrition, genetics and reproduction, training (beginning and advanced), riding instruction techniques, therapeutic riding, ferrier practices, and equitation. Courses in training and riding instruction methods provide both theory and hands-on experience working with horses and clients. The six semesters of weekly small group riding lessons increase students' abilities as horsewomen/men, with opportunities to experience dressage, hunt seat, stock seat, hunter-jumper, and driving. These and other equine-centered courses equip students to work in equine facilities, or even to start up one of their own in the future.

The minimum number of credits required for the degree is 120.


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