Equine Science

Good Horse Sense Starts
With A Stable Education!

Equine Science is the study of the principles behind the biology, function, and management of the horse. For students interested in developing the skills and knowledge that will help them gain a strong and competitive position in the equine industry, Santa Rosa Junior College offers an outstanding Equine Science program through the College's Agriculture and Natural Resources Department that focuses on the care and feeding, breeding, and anatomy of horses; horseback riding and horse training; and running horse-related businesses, such as riding schools, stables, and stud farms.

Top Instructional Through Practical Experience
Individuals enrolled in Equine Science courses receive both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, both essential to becoming the future leaders of the equine industry. Instruction is taught using lecture classes and hands-on laboratories at SRJC's beautiful 365-acre Shone Farm. The SRJC equestrian center includes the new state-of-the-art Warren G. Dutton Jr. Agricultural Pavilion that houses an indoor arena, stables, outside shelters with runs, a large outdoor arena with all-weather footing, large hay storage barn, turn-outs and pastures, and acres of riding trails.

Student Centered Instruction
To prepare students for exciting professional opportunities in the Equine industry, SRJC's Equine Science Program provides students with the option of an Associate in Science Degree in Equine Science or a Career Certificate in Equine Science.

The two-year Equine Science associate degree program is based on a broad technical study of all phases of equine business and management practices coupled with general studies classes required to become a well-rounded individual. Upon completion of this program, students elect to work in the horse industry or earn a Bachelor of Science Degree in Equine Science from a four-year college or university. The Career Certificate in Equine Science includes all equine courses, but does not require general education courses.

To accommodate each students, individual interests, the Equine Science Program is structured to allow students to specialize in the area of the horse industry in which they are the most interested. Through a variety of elective courses and specialized internship opportunities, students are encouraged to help design a course of study that best meets their career goals.

 

• Equine Science Major
• Equine Science Career Certificate

Therapeutic Riding
Santa Rosa Junior College also offers students the opportunity to participate in the equestrian program through therapeutic riding. Recognized as one of the most progressive forms of therapy, therapeutic riding offers students with disabilities the ability to control a horse as well as one's own body. The College offers courses for training in therapeutic riding, as well as courses for riders that work to increase balance, muscle control, strength, concentration, patience, responsibilities, and teamwork.

Gain the Competitive Edge
Today's multi-billion dollar horse industry is diverse, sophisticated, and high tech, and seeks knowledgeable and skilled employees to work in the multifaceted field that annual employs 1.4 million full-time employees, Students who have earned a degree at SRJC with a major in Equine Science are more than qualified for a wide variety of the diverse careers in the equine industry.

Many Equine Science graduates aim for a future in horse farm management at breeding facilities, lesson barns, and race and show training stables. Students may also qualify for employment as technologists, consultants, show and race facility managers, and staff, high school and junior college riding and equine science instructors, government agents, journalists, and sales or service representatives for companies promoting horse feed, health, and care products. Other career opportunities are available through breed associations, humane organizations, agriculture extension services, recreational services, horse publications, and more.