Equine Studies Curriculum

Freshman Year

Sophomore Year

Junior Year

Senior Year

Entrance Requirements:

See Becker College admissions information. A tetanus toxoid booster is required within the ten years preceding entrance. It is the student’s responsibility to keep this vaccine current. A prophylactic rabies vaccine is recommended. Should the student choose not to get the vaccine, a waiver must be signed before the student is allowed to participate in any courses involving direct contact with animals or the equine facility. Students must be able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs without assistance and work around 1000 lb animals in small quarters, as well as haul feed and bedding. Therefore, students with limitations to movement, sight or hearing may find it difficult to meet all course requirements. A student must be able to gauge an animal‘s body language and hear the animal coming up behind them. Students are advised to discuss their plans for entrance into this major with their family physician if they have severe allergies to hay, straw, shavings and/or other limitations of concern.

A precautionary note:

Since horses can be unpredictable in their behavior, a degree of risk is inherent in working with these animals. The student is required to sign a waiver of liability at the time of entrance into the program. Students may need to consider the cost of coveralls, and sturdy work shoes or boots that can be easily cleaned, when working in the facility. Students involved with any of the equitation or riding classes will need to supply their own helmets and riding boots (specifications to be discussed by course instructors).  Students should keep in mind that transportation provided by the College to the riding facility may not always be available when needed.

Horses used in class:

Any student entering the program with a physical requirement for a certain type or size of horse will be accommodated as much as possible. However, if the school is unable to find the appropriate horse to meet a student‘s physical needs, the student may not be able to complete the program.

*Students may test out of EQST1001 with a combination of in-saddle skills demonstration and written examination.  These students will be required to take EQST1002

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