Equine Studies (EQS)

Introduces principles of care for horses in an equine facility environment, with students learning industry accepted standards and techniques while providing care for assigned horses. Laboratory: 3.0 credits (135 contact hours).

Introduces students to equine career pathways and equips them with the foundational skills needed for professional success. Explores career opportunities and professional development activities for students to gain a deeper understanding of their strengths, interests, and values as they relate to career choices in the equine industry. Introduces topics including resume and cover letter writing, interview preparation, networking, and workplace professionalism. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Introduces the study of equine care by examining the anatomy and physiology of equine body systems and applications of this knowledge to the raising, training, and management of horses. Lecture: 3.0 credits (45 contact hours).

Presents principles of health management as it relates to the prevention and treatment of common diseases, parasites, and wounds. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Introduces the Thoroughbred sales industry with a focus on the evaluation and selection of breeding stock and racing prospects. Explores principles of pedigree analysis, conformation assessment, and industry market trends. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Presents principles of nutritional management as it relates to the overall health and performance of the horse. Lecture: 3.0 credits (45 contact hours).

Introduces students to racing industry organizations, personnel, facilities and the rules of racing. Lecture: 3.0 credits (45 contact hours).

Explores key components of facility design, including barn layout, footing selection, ventilation, fencing, and pasture systems, with a focus on creating safe, efficient, and welfare-centered environments for horses. Prerequisite(s): EQS 104. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Introduces basic principles and skills applicable to riding Thoroughbred racehorses. Includes identification and application of common tack and training bandages used in racing. Explores the physical demands placed on riders, including fitness, nutrition, and body mechanics. Prerequisite(s): Department consent. Laboratory: 5 credits (225 contact hours); Lecture: 1 credits (15 contact hours).

Continues development of principles and techniques of racehorse riding skills learned in EQS 150 in morning exercise sessions at the racetrack. Includes application of skills, including position, balance, and control at increased speeds, learning how to manage pace, ride according to trainer instructions, and ride safely in a professional racehorse training environment. Introduces Thoroughbred racing industry regulatory requirements as students progress towards licensure and professional roles in the racing industry. Prerequisite(s): EQS 150 or department consent. Laboratory: 5 credits (225 contact hours); Lecture: 1 credits (15 contact hours).

Introduces the principles of equine lameness, with an emphasis on understanding the anatomical, biomechanical, and management-related factors that contribute to soundness. Examines gait patterns, early indicators of discomfort, principles of therapy, common performance-limiting injuries, and the impact of lameness on performance and welfare. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Introduces students to the foundational principles, routines, and basic management involved in training Thoroughbred racehorses. Includes identification and application of equine training aids and equipment, as well as identification and application of equine support and medicated bandages commonly used for horses in training. Introduces Thoroughbred racing industry regulatory requirements as students progress towards licensure and professional roles in the racing industry. Prerequisite(s): EQS 104 or department consent. Laboratory: 3 credits (135 contact hours); Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Explores the scientific principles underlying how horses respond and adapt to physical training. Analyzes the physiological demands of various equine disciplines, evaluates the effects of conditioning programs, and assesses the factors that influence fatigue, recovery, and performance. Emphasizes optimizing performance while safeguarding equine health and welfare. Pre-requisite(s): EQS 200. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Covers techniques of how to handle horses safely in a variety of training situations as well as basic management and care for horses in training. Includes identification and application of equine training aids and equipment as well as identification and application of equine support and medicated bandages commonly used for horses in training. Lecture/Lab: 4.0 credit (150 contact hours).

Provides legal insights and practical tips for a successful horse business. Lecture: 3.0 credits (45 contact hours).

Provides students with supervised experience in administrative sectors of the equine industry. Applies professional communication, organizational skills, and industry knowledge while assisting with tasks such as scheduling, recordkeeping, customer service, marketing support, data management, and event coordination. Prerequisite(s): EQS 105 or department consent. Practicum: 3 credits (180 contact hours).

Provides a planned and evaluated work experience related to the student's educational objective in the equine reproduction, breeding, rehabilitation, and veterinary sectors of the industry, for which the student receives both financial remuneration and academic credit. Prerequisite(s): EQS 104; Department Consent. Co-Op: 3 credits (180 contact hours).

Provides a planned and evaluated work experience related to the student's educational objective in the Thoroughbred racing and sales industry, for which the student receives both financial remuneration and academic credit. Co-op: 1.0 - 9.0 credits (60 - 540 contact hours).