EQUINE EDUCATION
OPPORTUNITIES IN MINNESOTA
April, 2011
The Education/Special Interests Committee of the Minnesota Horse Council has compiled the following list of schools and organizations in Minnesota that offer educational opportunities related to horses. The listing does not indicate approval or recommendation by the MHC.
Potential students are urged to contact the institution that interests them for further information and to consult with professionals in the horse industry in order to make an informed choice about their future education or training. Updates will be made as information becomes available.
COLLEGIATE:
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA/ST. PAUL:
The College of Veterinary Medicine awards the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M.). The primary goal of the veterinary medical curriculum is to provide the education and training necessary for the general practice of veterinary medicine. The secondary goal is to allow the student to pursue some degree of specialized training. Graduates of the program are prepared to enter veterinary medical practice, residencies or a graduate educational program. Many graduates of the college enter private clinical practice in general or highly specialized areas such as equine practice. Others pursue careers in education, research, industry and government work. Veterinarians are also employed in laboratory animal medicine, zoo animal practice, and public health & food inspection. New opportunities are emerging in comparative medical research and aquatic and wildlife animal medicine. Contact: Office of the Associate Dean for Academic and Student Affairs, 460 Veterinary Medical Centers, 1365 Gortner Ave, U of MN, St. Paul, MN 55108 (612-624-4747), see “students” at www.cvm.umn.edu.
Undergraduate students in the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science may now incorporate Equine Science courses into their program for an emphasis in equine science. Available courses include Equine Nutrition, Equine Anatomy and Exercise Physiology, Horse Management, Equine Reproduction & Breeding Management, Historical Influence on the Horse on Society, and Small Animal & Equine Behavior. Students may also develop their practical skills with horses through participation in internships. The Equine Science option is unique in that it brings together faculty and facilities from the Department of Animal Science and the College of Veterinary Medicine. Students in any academic program at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus may ride in Intercollegiate Horse Show Association competitions throughout the Midwest by becoming a member of the University of Minnesota Equestrian Team. For more information, please contact Dr. Marcia Hathaway (Hathaway@umn.edu) or Krishona Martinson (krishona@umn.edu).
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA HORSE EXTENSION SERVICE:
This program was developed after surveys demonstrated the state-wide need for horse owner education. The U of M horse program provides unbiased, research based information to horse owners with the goal of increasing the knowledge of horse owners and improving the quality of care for horses and their habitat in Minnesota. Primary programs include Fall & Winter regional horse owner programs, website information (www.extension.umn.edu/horse), a free monthly e-newsletter, fact sheets, webinars, podcasts, and speeches at the Mn Horse Expo & similar events & programs across Minnesota and the US. For information contact Dr. Krishona Martinson at 612-625-6776 or krishona@umn.edu.
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA EQUINE CENTER. ST. PAUL CAMPUS:
The Leatherdale Equine Center and Piper Performance Clinic are now fully operational. This state-of-the-art diagnostic, research, and educational facility includes a large indoor arena and conference center available for rent to members of the Minnesota horse community .The Center provides tours to interested groups and hosts a broad range of clinics and other educational opportunities for regional horse owners. Horse organizations may also hold their meetings in the spacious and well-appointed conference room. For more information on the Equine Center and available educational opportunities, please go to www.cvm.umn.edu/umec/home.html or call the Center's information line at 612-624-5344.
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA/CROOKSTON:
UM-C offers a four-year Bachelor of Science in Equine Science degree with either an Equine Science emphasis or a Pre-Veterinary emphasis. Equine Science offers students a well-rounded degree, providing industry-respected training with a strong general education component. Course work is available in all riding seats, driving, training, exercise physiology, nutrition, equine management, horse production and breeding/reproductive physiology .The program also offers 10-12 week internships. For more information, please contact Dr. Ronald Del Vecchio (218-281-8109) or Nicky Overgaard (218-281-8127); Equine Science, 1000 UTOC, UMC, Crookston, MN 56716-5001 (1-800-232-6466). Website: www.umcrookston.edu/academics/agri/equinescience/index.htm.
TECHNICAL SCHOOLS:
RIDGEWATERCOLLEGE
Ridgewater College offers an A.A.S. degree in Veterinary Technology at the WiIlmar Campus. The program is fully accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association and emphasizes clinical training. This public college program is 2-1/2 years in length. Graduates are eligible to take national credentialing exam. Contact: Ridgewater College Office of Admissions, PO Box 1097, 2101 15th Ave NW, Willmar, MN 56201 (1-800-722-1151). Allen R. Balay, D.V.M., Director of Veterinary Technology (320-222-8260). Email: allen.balay@ridgewater.edu. www.ridgewater.edu.
ROCHESTER COMMUNITY AND TECHNICAL COLLEGE
Degrees offered include A.A.S. in Equine Science and Business Management (students often continue at Crookston), a certificate or A.A.S in Equine Science Horse Husbandry (management and breeding) and a certificate or A.A.S. in Equine Science Riding/Training (includes colt starting), A.A.S. in Equine Business Management. Both hunt seat and western horsemanship available. There are also 2 IHSA teams, an internship program, and ‘end of semester’ horse shows. Students receive help finding employment in the industry, are involved in the care of the school horses, have teaching opportunities, and participate in internships throughout the US. Contact: Julie Christie, Equine Science Program leader and Instructor, RCTC, 851-30th Ave. SE, Rochester, MN, 55904-4999 (507-280-5532). Email: julie.christie@roch.edu. www.rctc.edu/program/eqsc.
MINNESOTA SCHOOL OF BUSINESS/GLOBE UNIVERSITY:
Campuses in Shakopee, Plymouth, Blaine, St. Cloud, Woodbury, Moorhead, Rochester, Elk River, and Lakeville. The Vet Tech program at each of these campuses is independently accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Assn. Each campus features laboratory facilkities, a surgery suite, radiology unit, and animal housing areas. The school offers a 2- year AAS. degree in Veterinary Technology, and emphasized hands-on clinical skills, as well as client communication and a broad understanding of the role of the Vet Tech in a wide variety of careers. A 4-year Bachelors degree is also offered at Woodbury & Plymouth. Graduates are eligible to take the national credentialing exam. Contact: Dr. Camille McArdle, DVM, at 651-332-8000, cmcardle@ globeuniversity.edu, www.globeuniversity.edu, or www.msbcollege.edu.
PRIVATE VOCATIONAL:
MINNESOTA SCHOOL OF HORSESHOEING:
The Farrier Science Program is a ten week course (offered four times per year) designed to provide students with entry level skills in the art and science of horseshoeing. There is an optional apprenticeship program that is strongly recommended. The areas of study include the conformation and anatomy of the horse with special emphasis on the lower limb, physiology of the lower limb, corrective shoeing, shoeing for lameness and forging operations. Graduates will be able to communicate useful and practical information related to farrier science, physically perform the skills in the forge and under the horse and demonstrate acceptable attitudes and responsibilities toward the profession. The school also offers a two week program for horse owners on the business of trimming and shoeing. Emphasis on balanced trimming and shoeing with ready-made shoes; offered in conjunction with ten week courses. Contact: Richard or Nancy Duggan, Minnesota School of Horseshoeing, 6250 Riverdale Dr., Ramsey, MN 55303 (763-427-5850). Web: www.mnschoolofhorseshoeing.com.
ARGOSY UNIVERSITY, TWIN CITIES:
One of the largest AVMA-accredited Veterinary Technician programs in the country, the Argosy University Twin Cities program results in an AAS. degree. Students receive hands-on training with small and large animals throughout the two year program including a Clinical Training experience in a veterinary facility .Graduates are prepared to perform a wide variety of tasks under the supervision of a veterinarian. They assist with exams, anesthesiology and surgery, perform diagnostic and laboratory tests; take and develop x-rays; care for in-patient animals; administer first aid; and assist with office functions and management of clinic facilities. Elective courses offered include animal behavior, animal ultra sound, complementary and alternative veterinary therapies, advanced equine techniques, and critical care and emergency. Graduates are eligible to sit for national certification exams. The new campus has three dedicated surgical suites, and a dedicated radiography suite. Contact: Admissions Office, Argosy University Twin Cities, 1515 Central Parkway, Eagan, MN, 55124 (651-846-2882. See the web site: www.argosy.edu. Email: tcadmissions@argosy.edu.
COMMUNITY EDUCATION:
DELANO COMMUNITY EDUCATION:
Classes in Horse Management are offered periodically. The course may include a field trip for hands-on experience. Cost is $49. Taught by Dr. Wes Schroeder. Call 763-972-6210 or www.delanocommunityeducation.com (not updated)
MINNESOTA 4-H:
The Minnesota 4-H Horse Project offers young people a chance to develop responsibility. leadership abilities, sportsmanship and the life skills of establishing goals and decision making. These are achieved by regularly caring for a horse and learning about basic horse health. nutrition, breeding, judging, record keeping, management and equitation -all under the supervision of an adult leader. Contact your local county extension office or call U of MN Extension at 1-800-444-4238.
PONY CLUB:
The US Pony Club, Inc. (US PC) celebrated its 50th year in 2004, teaching riding, mounted sports and the care and management of horses to young people through the age of 25. It develops in youth the characteristics of responsibility, moral judgment, leadership and self-confidence. For over 50 years US PC has provided a varied and quality program of mounted and unmounted instruction, activities and competition. All year long US PC offers children something to look forward to as they progress through the Standards of Proficiency, a unique nine-step learning and rating system. Many parents learn along with their children. US PC is an organization that the whole family can enjoy. Kids love Pony Club because it's so much fun -parents love Pony Club because it teaches children important values that carry over into their adult life. There are 20 clubs in Minnesota. There is now an adult program to encourage participation, leadership and volunteerism. Contact: Cathy Ruelle, regional manager (715-273-0480). Web: http//northernlakes.ponyclub.org.
PRIVATE VETERINARY PRACTICES:
Some local veterinarians periodically give special clinics on equine topics. These include MN Equine Associates, Ltd., Loretto (763-479-2555) and River Valley Veterinary Service, Prior Lake (952-447-4118). Please be sure to check others.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
See our website at www.MnHorseCouncil.org/equine-education.php.
Prepared by: Trina Joyce, Minnesota Horse Council, (612-729-7798).