Course Descriptions

EQU100 Introduction to Hoof Care - 1 credit
This course introduces the form, function, care, and maintenance of the equine hoof.  A survey of trimming theories and techniques produces an understanding of the role of sound, functional hooves for the horse's gaits and performance.  The effects of shoes, appliances, health, and nutrition on hoof form and function are addressed, and tools and tasks of the professional farrier’s trade are introduced. 

Prerequisite: EQU161 or instructor permission

EQU101 Concepts in Equine Massage - 1 credit
This course will prepare the student to do a simple but effective equine sports massage. The material will include how and why massage therapy works, covering rudimentary equine anatomy, physiology and kinesiology.  Students will learn how to do basic massage therapy strokes from effleurage to trigger points and stretch work, with plenty of hands-on experience. 

Prerequisite: EQU161 or instructor permission

EQU161 Stable Management I - Horse Care - 4 Credits
This course concentrates on the care and handling of horses including the maintenance of good health, with emphasis on the prevention of both injuries and illnesses.  Related topics such as safe handling techniques, daily routine, grooming, selection and fit of tack and horse 'clothing', barn safety, basic feeding, parasite control, and emergency care are studied.  A practical horse care 'lab' component is included in this course.

EQU162 Stable Management II - Facility Design/Operation - 4 Credits
This course involves the planning, construction, and maintenance of horse farms.  Barn design, placement, and layout are covered in detail, examining such considerations as environmental concerns, drainage, ventilation, efficiency, safety, pastures, fencing, maintenance procedures, purchasing and storing of feed.  Also covered are record keeping, insurance requirements, fire prevention and selection, training, and management of staff.  A practical 'lab' component is included in this course to enable students to experience 'on the job' training in a variety of settings.

EQU170 Equine Communication - 1 credit
This course is a practical study in the safe and gentle handling of horses through the understanding and use of body language communication skills.  Correct use of the Round Pen is described and practiced.  The student learns how to relate the physiological development of the horse to its needs today, and how this translates to a safer and more productive relationship.

EQU251 Anatomy & Physiology of the Horse - 3 Credits
This course begins with an overview of the horse as a product of its evolution and of the development of the Northern European conformation as distinguished from that of the Middle Eastern desert breeds.  Studied in detail are the anatomy and physiology of the horse, and the function of its biological systems.  In addition, an evaluation of conformation as it relates to soundness is explored.

EQU252 Equine Nutrition - 3 Credits
This course involves an examination of the nutrients needed by the horse and the various feeds that can be combined to meet the requirements of an equine diet.  The course also includes a survey of varying feed management practices and programs that meet the needs of individual horses in work/competition or at pasture, for growth, reproduction, maintenance, and old age. Also addressed are parasites, plant toxicity, and feed quality and labeling.  Nutrition-related diseases are studied with emphasis on prevention.

EQU265 Theory of Equitation Teaching - 3 Credits
This course develops an understanding of the principles and methods used in teaching equitation.  Aspects studied include the history and rationale of classical equitation theory and the related issues associated with teaching riding to individuals and groups. Appropriate lessons are planned for all ages and levels of riding experience.  In addition to lectures, visiting speakers, and discussions on teaching methods, students gain practical experience by observing instructors in the field.

EQU270 Equine Event Management - 1 credit
All Equine disciplines engage in judged performances (Horse Shows), educational experiences (Clinics), judged skill demonstrations (Gymkhanas,) and pure entertainment such as the Pfizer Fantasia at the Equine Affaire Trade Show. Each one of these Equine Events needs to be planned and managed. This course gives an overview of techniques, timelines, guidelines, staffing and budget concerns for a variety of equine events.  In addition there will be lectures, visiting speakers and hands on participation in event planning to assist students with learning.

EQU299 Instructional Experience Practicum - 3 Credits
Practical experience is very important for any future instructor and this course gives students an opportunity to develop their teaching skills.   Skills developed include voice projection, maintaining control and authority within the class setting, handling the various problems encountered in teaching riding, improving observation and evaluation of rider progression, and maintaining safety procedures.  This is accomplished with class lectures and supervised student teaching.

Prerequisite:  EQU265.

EQU301 Horse Industry Orientation - 3 Credits
Horse-related industries collectively contribute billions of dollars to the U. S. economy.  This course provides students with an opportunity to observe and evaluate different aspects of the industry through guest lectures, field trips, and class discussions.  Professionals in such areas as equine photography, show management, equine insurance, retailing and the racing industry give practical advice to the students for their future careers. The importance of maintaining complete professionalism and integrity in all job performance and business dealings is emphasized.  Also included are aspects of abuse, cruelty-prevention and the ethical treatment of horses.

EQU302 Principles of Horse Breeding - 3 Credits
This course deals with genetics, anatomy, physiology, nutrition and management of mares and stallions used for breeding.  Material covered includes preparation for breeding, managing the breeding stallion, and normal foaling and postpartum care of both mare and foal.  Additional topics covered are diseases associated with reproduction, modern techniques in caring for premature foals, treatment of foal diseases, and disease-prevention practices.  Genetics, conformation, temperament, performance, and type are considered as they affect the selection of sires and dams for breeding.

Prerequisite:  EQU251.

EQU303 Horse Industry Work Experience - 3 x 1 credit courses
This course provides students with an opportunity to gain valuable practical experience in their chosen focus area within the equine industry.  In addition to class lectures, students learn the requirements for each field of study through observation and working under supervision. This course can be applied to credit for career specialty programs off-campus.

EQU306 Equine Locomotion - 3 Credits
This course is a study of the way the equine locomotor system is put together and how it makes the animal move, including an evolutionary perspective as well as individual and breed tendencies. The material will include detailed anatomy, equine movement analysis, hoof mechanics, and myokinesiology. Through in-depth training in observation, students will learn the use of gait study and its relationship to physical comfort and athletic performance.

Prerequisite: EQU251 or equivalent

EQU315 Hoof Trimming I – Principles and Practices - 3 Credits
This course is an introduction to the tools, techniques, and methods of basic hoof trimming practice, based on the understanding that a sound, functioning hoof is necessary for both the horse's comfort and athletic performance. The student will consider the range of accepted theories of hoof function for their relevance to the broader goal of establishing natural equilibrium in the hoof, and begin the practical application of appropriate trimming techniques on live horses. Safe practices and concern for the hoof trimmer's health will be stressed. Tool purchase is required.

Prerequisite: EQU306

EQU317 Equine Massage I – Principles and Practices - 3 Credits
This course is an introduction to equine sports massage practice covering traditional massage techniques and their application to the equine locomotor system. This course will review musculoskeletal anatomy and movement analysis, developing an understanding of its value for the horse's comfort and athletic performance. The student will consider the science behind sports massage and its relevance to balancing the horse's dynamic conformation, and begin the practical application of appropriate massage techniques on live horses. Safety and concern for the practitioner's health will be stressed.

Prerequisite: EQU306

EQU380 Horse in Western Society - 3 Credits
This course is a study of the equine role in shaping society, with a concentration on the war horses of the Mongol, Moorish and Medieval periods, the conquest of the Americas and the American Indian, and the inter-relationship between the horse and the rise of industrialization. Students will Analyze the role of the horse and how their contribution has caused society to evolve as it has.

EQU340 Equine Business Ethics - 3 Credits
The challenges associated with business in general, and the very important issues unique to the equine industry, will be discussed to increase students' awareness of the problems they might face.   These will include the ethical dilemmas involved in the misuse of horses, the ethics involved in the sale of horses, and the decisions that have to be made regarding a variety of issues where there may not be clear guidelines.

EQU363 Advanced Horsemanship - 3 Credits
This course is offered as a directed study program.  With the approval of their advisor, students work with a qualified professional studying advanced techniques in a discipline or focus area of their choice.    Students keep a journal, produce a video, and write a paper illustrating knowledge acquired.  This course can be applied to credit for career specialty programs off-campus.

EQU401 Equine Medical Management - 3 Credits
This course studies many aspects of preventative medicine, parasitology, pharmacology, and first aid.  Also studied are disease, lameness, treatment techniques, and alternative treatment options together with on-going health care and methods of administering medicine.  This course is intended to enable students to assess the seriousness of any equine medical problem and take appropriate action.  Guest lecturers include veterinarians and other professionals in related fields.

Prerequisite:  Junior standing.

EQU403 Equine Senior Seminar - 3 Credits
In this course students complete a senior research project including preparation of a detailed paper.  This format allows an in-depth study on an equine topic of special interest to the individual student.  Students obtain approval for and coordinate their work with a supervising instructor.  An oral presentation summarizing the topic studied is presented before an audience at the conclusion of the course.

Prerequisite:  Senior standing or permission of the instructor

EQU410 Equine Law - 3 Credits
This course covers the major issues of equine law including, but not limited to, ownership and transfer of horses and interests in horses, duties and rights of co-owners, trainers, agents, boarders, partners, and syndicate managers; racing and licensing; treatment of horses; court procedures; and issues involving insurance, intellectual property, bankruptcy, and torts. 

Cross-listed with LAW 410 - Required for Equine Law Certificate

Prerequisite: Junior or senior standing.

Strongly Recommended Preparation:  LAW 101, LAW 205.   

EQU460 Internship in Equine-Related Business - 3 Credits
Experience in the field is extremely important for any student, so this strongly recommended course allows students to work at an approved equine-related business in their field of concentration.  The approval of the program director and Career Office is required and all registration policies must be followed.  A detailed journal, an in-depth paper and video or photo presentation documenting the student's experience are submitted to complete this course.  This course can be applied to credit for career specialty programs off-campus.

Prerequisite:  Junior Standing.

You must speak with your academic advisor as well as the Career Services Office before registering. Click here for more information.

EQU435 Independent Study - 1-4 credits
Students engage in independent research/work in the area of their career focus.  A detailed paper and in-depth presentation will be required at the send of the semester.  Application, proposal submission and registration policies should be discussed with the faculty mentor prior to registration.  .  This course can be applied to credit for career specialty programs on or off campus.

Prerequisite:  Permission of the Instructor.