Which Equine Degrees Can Be Earned Online?
Though rare, several options do exist for students looking to pursue an online degree related to equine studies. Read on to learn more about the courses and other requirements for online degree programs in this field.
Types of Online Equine Programs
While some 4-year equine programs include distance education courses, bachelor's degrees typically can't be completed online, because they include classes that require direct contact with horses. However, many certificate and associate's degree programs can be finished entirely online in 1-2 years or less. You can earn an online certificate in equine management or equine studies, or you can earn an online associate's degree in agriculture sales and service with a concentration in equine management.
<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutOnlineEquineDegrees">Important Facts About Online Equine Degrees</h3><p></p><table border="1"><tr><td>Prerequisites </td><td> High school diploma or equivalent; experience with or interest in horses recommended</td></tr>
<tr><td>Degree Fields of Study </td><td> Agricultural sales & service, equine science</td></tr>
<tr><td>Degree Levels </td><td> Certificate; associate's degree; master's degree</td></tr>
<tr><td>Possible Careers</td><td> Veterinarian, farrier, head equine trainer</td></tr>
<tr><td>Median Salary (2021)</td><td>$100,370 <i>(veterinarians)</i>*</td></tr>
<tr><td>Job Outlook (2021-2031)</td><td>19% <i>(veterinarians)</i>*</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---OnlineOptions">Online Options</h3><p>The following list contains the different online programs that teach students about equine affairs.
</p><h3 id="section---EquineManagementCertificate">Equine Management Certificate</h3><p>Equine management programs are ideal for students who want to be involved in the business side of owning horses. With a certificate, you can pursue entry-level careers with horse trainers, stables, farms and large-animal health clinics. You might also choose to pursue an equine management degree at a 4-year college or university. Online certificate programs in equine management generally include courses on the following topics:
</p><ul><li>Legal issues in equine management
</li><li>Issues of horse farm management
</li><li>Tax issues and equine management
</li><li>Equine event management
</li><li>Stall and pasture maintenance
</li></ul><h3 id="section---EquineTechnicianCertificate">Equine Technician Certificate</h3><p>You can also earn an online certificate in equine studies. This program is comprised of 15 credit hours and is designed for students who are new to horse ownership. Some typical course topics include those listed below:
</p><ul><li>Pre-purchase examinations
</li><li>Vaccination and disease prevention
</li><li>Nutrition
</li><li>Equine psychology & behavior
</li><li>Safe handling practices
</li></ul><h3 id="section---AssociateOfScienceInAgricultureSalesAndServiceWithAConcentrationInEquineManagement">Associate of Science in Agriculture Sales and Service with a Concentration in Equine Management</h3><p>An online associate's degree in equine management usually takes two years to complete. Some programs may offer the option to concentrate in equine management or equine training. Online audio and video presentations are often used to discuss equine management concepts. The program provides you with a comprehensive knowledge of animal science and nutrition, basic life sciences and agricultural processes. Other essential topics include the following:
</p><ul><li>Equine safety, groundwork and behavior
</li><li>Equine anatomy
</li><li>Basic theories in equine training
</li><li>Equine business management</li></ul>