Equine Genetics Schools and Degree Programs
An educational program in animal science or equine studies can prepare you for a career in equine genetics, a field that focuses on horse breeding. Find out about how to select a school, and see what courses you'll take.
What You Need to Know
Programs that focus specifically on equine genetics are rare. However, the subject may be covered in undergraduate certificate and degree programs in animal science, equine studies, veterinary science and closely related fields. Students interested in equine genetics should look for schools with equine genetics-related training facilities and relevant coursework.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Courses</b></td><td> Animal production, equine breeding, horse reproduction, genetics and reproduction management</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Degrees</b></td><td> Associate's and bachelor's degrees</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Certificates</b></td><td> Certificate programs in animal science and equine studies</td></tr>
</table><h3 id="section---WhatEquineGeneticsDegreeProgramsAreAvailable">What Equine Genetics Degree Programs Are Available?</h3><p>Certificate programs in animal science and equine studies can be completed in as little as one year, and they can include courses in horse breeding and genetics. You might consider a certificate if you're pursuing an entry-level position in the field, or if you'd like to add some specialization to a pre-existing education.
</p><p>Associate's degree programs in animal science or equine science may offer you a more diverse array of equine courses, and they may offer you the opportunity to engage in more unique, hands-on experiences in the field. Bachelor's degree programs in equine science, veterinary science or animal science may all prepare you for work in equine genetics through courses, lab work and hands-on practicum experiences.
</p><h3 id="section---HowCanISelectASchool">How Can I Select a School?</h3><p>Not all animal science programs or veterinary science programs include equine specialization options or equine genetics courses. Before enrolling in a school, you should be sure that the prospective program includes the appropriate training courses and facilities.
</p><p>Schools with animal genetics laboratories, specifically equine genetics laboratories, can be the most beneficial to you for the more extensive and specialized training they could offer you in courses, independent projects and work experience. Schools with ongoing genetics projects in such areas as coat color could help you engage actively in experiments and testing. The following schools offer equine genetics degree programs:
</p><ul><li>University of California - Davis
</li><li>University of Minnesota (Minneapolis)
</li><li>Kansas State University (Manhattan, KS)
</li><li>NC State University (Raleigh)
</li><li>Missouri State University (Springfield)
</li><li>University of Massachusetts - Amherst
</li><li>Cornell University (Ithaca, NY)
</li></ul><h3 id="section---WhatCoursesWillITake">What Courses Will I Take?</h3><p>Through animal science or veterinary science programs with equine concentrations, you can take courses in genetics and reproduction management. Certificate programs may remain more focused and basic in a subject, while associate's and bachelor's degree programs may include courses on marketing and computer science. These topics could also be studied:
</p><ul><li>Animal production
</li><li>Equine breeding
</li><li>Horse reproduction
</li><li>Agriculture
</li></ul><h3 id="section---WhatOtherCoursesAreAvailableToMe">What Other Courses Are Available to Me?</h3><p>Equine or horse science programs can include coursework in breeding and genetics, in addition to courses in anatomy and training. Through a bachelor's degree program, you may be able to choose a concentration in breeding, racing or business management. These topics might also be covered:
</p><ul><li>Horse nutrition
</li><li>Exercise physiology
</li><li>Riding
</li><li>Behavior management
</li><li>Technical science</li></ul>