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Course Descriptions
Equine Business Management Course Descriptions
EQU 161
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.
EQU 162
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.
EQU 251
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.
EQU 252
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.
EQU 265
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.
EQU 299
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: EQU 265.
EQU 301
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.
EQU 302
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: EQU 251.
EQU 303
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.
EQU 340
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.
EQU 363
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.
EQU 401
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.
EQU 403
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
EQU 410
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.
EQU 460
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.
EQU 435
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.