Distance learning courses in equine science are often non-degree, personal-enrichment courses; however, some may be available through a certificate program. Read on to learn more about these options.
Overview of Distance Learning Equine Science Courses
Distance learning courses in equine science tend to focus on the care, training and management of horses. They are beneficial for the individual who runs a company that utilizes horses or who simply owns a horse. Because of the hands-on nature of the subject, online courses in equine science are fairly rare, but a few programs offer them.
Generally, you will need a computer with high-speed Internet access, and you may need an e-mail address so you can have contact with the instructor. Some courses may include online materials to use and allow access to video presentations or webcasts. A few classes may be used for college credit.
<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutEquineScience">Important Facts About Equine Science</h3><p></p><table border="1"><tr><td> Prerequisites </td><td> High-School Diploma or GED; 2.5 GPA</td></tr>
<tr><td> Possible Careers </td><td> Equine veterinarian; Ranch manager; Researcher</td></tr>
<tr><td> Common Courses </td><td> Health, apparel, breeding, entertainment</td></tr>
<tr><td> Online Availability</td><td> Fully</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---EquineNutrition">Equine Nutrition</h3><p>This course covers basic equine nutrition. It covers equine anatomy and gastrointestinal physiology from a nutritional standpoint. You will learn to evaluate feed labels, deliver proper feed amounts and use computer analysis programs for feed analysis. Attention is also paid to a horse's digestive anatomy, proper equine feeding during an illness and how feeding practices change throughout a horse's stages of life. You also learn strategies for managing feeding and how certain nutrients are absorbed.
</p><h3 id="section---EquineBehaviorAndWelfare">Equine Behavior and Welfare</h3><p>This course, which is also referred to as equine or horse management, covers equine anatomy and physiology, training, nutrition, diseases, emergency first aid, equine housing and hoof care. You learn about body language, how a horse uses its senses and how to ensure your horse is in top physical and mental condition.
</p><h3 id="section---HorseEvaluation">Horse Evaluation</h3><p>In this course, you examine how to effectively evaluate a horse for personal or professional use in terms of athletic ability, teeth, color, markings, performance disciplines and general overall physical condition. You also learn how to evaluate performance and recognize issues that may affect the horse's ability to perform.</p>
