If you have a background with horses, you know that these animals need to be taken care of in a certain way. If you enjoy caring for horses, have a strong work ethic, are organized, like sports and are willing to do hard physical work, equestrian studies may be the right major for you.
Education
This major is available at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Equestrian studies focuses on horses and horseback riding. You learn about the care and anatomy of horse, taking classes in equine health management, nutrition and breed types. There are classes in horseback riding and training. If you’re wondering how taking care of or riding a horse can turn into a career, you also learn about running a horse-related business by taking classes like entrepreneurship and stable and stud farm management. In high school, it helps to take courses like math, chemistry, AP Biology and business.
Questions to ask
Hands-experience is important in equestrian studies – ask if the department works with local businesses to offer internships. If you know what area you’re interested in, make sure the department offers courses you’d need. Ask if the school has on-campus horses and well-equipped stables. What about extracurricular programs like polo or equestrian team?
Salary
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, an animal care and service worker made an average of $19,970 in 2012. You can continue on with your education to become a veterinarian after getting your doctorate in veterinary medicine. In 2012, veterinarians made an average of $84,460.
> For more information about career and major choices, go to NextStepU.com.
