Program Overview

Program Course Delivery
Equine Science - Major On-Campus
Equine Science - Minor On-Campus

Take the reins and come ride with us in the equine science program

Bring your boots. Trust us, you’ll need them. Breed, manage, ride, show, and train in this program, where you’re hands-on from day one. Gain the knowledge and skills leading to work in veterinary medicine, animal production, agribusiness, research, and more. Our coursework prepares you to work in the equine industry or for graduate or professional school. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, it’s no problem. Faculty and staff accommodate every skill level. You can even compete as an athlete on one of our successful equestrian teams. Whatever your goals, we have the horses and everything you need right on campus. 

Equine Science is a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree.

Equine Science Major

Braiding a horse's mane

Graduates of the equine science program understand and can meet the daily care, nutrition, health care, and exercise/training needs of horses in their care. They have the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in equine or equine-related employment and have the business and management experience necessary to operate an equine or related business. The program balances the practical skills students need to work with and care for horses and the theory required to build a successful career. The focus is on the business and management aspects of the horse industry, thus providing a broad-based education that appeals to employers. Options also exist for students who wish to pursue graduate school or pre-veterinary studies.

After completing the program, graduates will:

  • Knowledge of theory and practical experience in physiology, nutrition, health, and reproduction of horses.
  • A working knowledge of equine ownership responsibility and husbandry.
  • Applying management theories, software, and marketing strategies to equine and related enterprises.
  • Demonstrated horsemanship and training skills in various disciplines and the ability to understand what methods work most effectively with horses of different temperaments and breeding/conformation.
  • Have practical skills and knowledge that will lead to various employment opportunities in the equine industry.

Equine Science Major Courses

Equine Science Minor

Students working with fouls

The minor in equine science introduces students to the critical areas of management and production of the equine industry. Students learn core industry concepts, including training in reproduction, exercise physiology, nutrition, management of equine facilities, and rider instructor training.

Equine Science Minor Courses

 

Interested in veterinary school?

Across the nation, there is a shortage of veterinarians for food animals. Vacant positions in rural areas or in the food industry are difficult to fill. More veterinary staff are needed in state and federal agencies to protect livestock from disease and ensure food safety and security. To meet this demand, the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine created the Veterinary Food Animal Scholars Track (VetFAST), an opportunity for accelerated acceptance into its Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program. Learn more about the program requirements and benefits.

Combines equine science and business management 

Award-winning indoor heated facilities, which include classrooms, labs, an arena, stables, a tack room, and more. 

Work with 45 horses right on campus - we have a wide range of horses, breeds, and ages.

Emphasis areas:

  • Equine Science
  • Pre-Veterinary Medicine

 

Awards and Accreditation

  • Award-winning facilities
  • The U of M Crookston pre-veterinary program has a placement rate of 68% for veterinary school, which is more than SIX TIMES the national average of 11%.
  • The University of Minnesota Crookston is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Student Experiences

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Two students having a conversation while looking at a laptop
A women smiling while glancing outside of the window.
Two female students smiling while looking at a laptop screen
Image of a basketball gym.

Average Cost After Aid

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$13,436

Average amount of grants & scholarships received (2022-2023 data)

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$12,894

Average net price after grants &
scholarships (2021-2022 data)

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$22,883

Average TOTAL student loan debt after
graduation (2022-2023)

Scholarship and Funding Options

The University of Minnesota Crookston provides quick and easy access to over $1 million worth of scholarship opportunities for new and returning students!

Your Future Professors

Amber Edblom
Lab Services Coordinator
Lily Germano
Lecturer
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Farm Equipment Operator
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Teaching Specialist
Haley Pembroke
Head Equestrian Coach
Morgan Pyles
Assistant Professor
Renae Wesenberg
Farm Animal Attendant, Teaching Specialist
Amanda Williams
Lab Services Coordinator

What is Campus Life Like?

Residential Life

University of Minnesota Crookston's residence halls are ranked #1 public college dorms in Minnesota by Niche. The residential halls are clean, safe, spacious and modern. There is a mix of traditional style rooms, suites, and apartments available on-campus which include amenities such as ensuite bathrooms, walk-closets, and full size kitchens with all major appliances. There are also beautiful common spaces in every residential building that are great places to hangout, play games, study, or relax. Schedule a tour to see for yourself why they're ranked #1!

Students gathered together playing cards in their dorm room located in Centennial Hall.
Photo of a dorm room in Evergreen Hall
Living room in Heritage Hall.
A photo of a dorm room in McCall Hall
A photo of a dorm room in Skyberg Hall
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Students ordering food at Eagles Nest.
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Student Stories

Equine students giving a horse a bath

Equine Science Student Stories

Listen to the experiences of current students in the Equine Science program at the University of Minnesota Crookston. Come ride with us!