Academics Menu ▾

Minor in Equine Administration

Rein in equestrian management.

Keeping and caring for a horse, a staff, a team and all of the pieces and parts that running a horse business entails is no easy feat. So it comes as no surprise that equestrians — regardless of profession — must hold basic business skills for successful careers. That’s equine veterinarians, photographers, stable owners, trainers, therapy service providers and more.

No matter what you want to do, the William Woods University minor in equine administration prepares you with knowledge to take on a part of the equestrian industry you may have never seen before.

It serves as a great addition if you’re pursuing a degree in equestrian science or equine general studies, or even if you’re interested in another field and may benefit from an understanding of the equestrian industry. The equine management minor is a great way to learn techniques of facility management, event management, equine business practices and a great way to get in the saddle.

Facilities

On-campus equestrian facilities: an optimal learning environment

  • 150 show-quality horses
  • Four heated barns with a total of 150 box stalls
  • Eight tack rooms
  • Two heated indoor arenas
  • Lighted outdoor ring
  • Outdoor round pen
  • Four turnout paddocks
  • Two fully equipped, technology-enhanced classrooms
  • 40-acre cross-country course
  • Six wash stalls
  • USEF regulation jumps
  • USEF regulation Dressage area
  • Student lockers and laundry

Few educational institutions can match William Woods University for its on-campus equine facilities that accommodate riding, care and study at all levels and seats. Our classrooms include an extensive video library and viewing equipment, and our dedicated library includes more than 1,000 books on all aspects of the field, from history and physiology to behavior, training, law, and competition. Our more than 150 horses represent the most popular breeds and are cared for by William Woods students and our full-time, on-site veterinarian.

Courses you may take:

EQA 205 - Facility Management Practicum I - 2.00

This course will look at the daily operation, methodology and practice of equine facility management. It will introduce the student to how equine facilities are organized, how they operate and give the student hands-on experience in these areas. Topics related to the equine facility operations will be covered. This course will introduce the student to developing the techniques, working skills and habits of a professional equestrian. Managerial positions require the individual to be a self starter, to have the self discipline to establish and maintain their own work schedule and the perseverance to see the job to its completion. Those skills will be practiced in this class.

EQU 111 - Introduction to the Horse Industry - 3.00

This course is an introduction to equestrians and horse organizations and their objectives including the extent of horse sport on the national and international level. The role of the horse in today’s society will be explored. The four WWU disciplines of Dressage, Hunter/Jumper, Saddle Seat and Western along with their respective practices will be surveyed. Points concerning horse behavior, care of the domesticated horse, developing a professional lexicon and the importance of proper fitting and uses of basic tack will be covered. The course will also explore employment opportunities and practices in the industry.

EQU 117 - Theory of Performance Hrs Hlth Mgmt - 3.00

Students will explore management and treatment protocols for performance horses. Identification and administration methods and dosage for equine drugs and medications associated with the competition or working horse will also be addressed. Equine infectious diseases, injuries, illnesses and complications are a primary focus of the course.

EQU 118 - Theory Prfrmnc Horse Hlth Mngmt II - 3.00

Students will further explore more elements of practical management skills, the normal horse, health issues, lameness, drugs and medications and competitive drug rules. Prerequisite: EQU117

EQU 201 - Horse Management Practicum I - 3.00

An introduction to applied horse management emphasizing the day to day care of horses. All aspects of the daily care and health management of a string of horses will be practiced. (Required grade of C or higher to satisfy major requirements). Prerequisites: EQU111 & EQU 118

EQU 405 - Equine Business Practices - 3.00

This lecture course is designed to provide an overview of equine business practices. Three main course elements include: horse transactions (buying, selling, leasing, donating, contracts, etc.), and business management (business plans, personnel management, customer relations, advertising, marketing, legal issues, taxation, insurance, record keeping, book keeping, leadership principles, etc.). Prerequisites: Senior Standing

Curriculum

Share this page: