Equine Science and Management - Associate of Applied Science (Major Code - EQSM)

The Equine Science and Management Associate of Applied Science degree is designed to prepare students for a career in equine science and management or for transfer to a university Bachelor of Applied Science degree program. It focuses on equine anatomy and physiology, reproduction, conformation and lameness, stable operations and management, and western equitation.

Prior to enrollment, students must meet the following requirements: 1) score of 75% or higher on horsemanship practical entrance exam, 2) passing evaluation of their horse during the entrance exam, 3) documentation of current vaccines and negative Coggins test, and 4) acceptance into the equine program.

Learning Outcomes

Students who successfully complete this program will be able to do the following:

• Explain the evolution and fundamentals of Equus—its anatomical systems, the hoof, nutrition, disease, and health management—and identify breeds, classes, and methods of identification.
• Demonstrate safe horsemanship and appropriate riding skills of the western horse.
• Evaluate a horse’s conformation and explain how it relates to structural soundness, athletic ability, trainability, longevity, and performance potential.
• Manage the daily operations of an equine facility with current industry standards of health and nutrition including safe and effective horse handling techniques.
• Identify the anatomy and physiology of equine body systems and explain how they apply to raising, conditioning, training, and managing horses.
• Identify the causes of common lamenesses in horses and explain appropriate treatments. Apply appropriate rehabilitative and conditioning techniques.
• Explain the equine reproductive systems of the mare and stallion as they relate to breeding, selection, and the growth and development of the foal.

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