Equestrian Science Degree

Welcome to the Division of Equestrian Studies

WWU, home of the first four year Equestrian Science degree program in the country, boasts an EQS Division that is instilled with history and success. The riding program started in 1924, and the four-year degree was instituted in 1972. The EQS degree is especially designed for the student interested in pursuing a career in training and managing horses and/or teaching equitation. The EQS Division offers students a traditional American approach to horsemanship which includes exposure to Saddle Seat, Hunt Seat, Western and Dressage. WWU graduates benefit from a broad foundation in horsemanship as well as a strong liberal arts education.

Required Coursework
Students enrolled in the program receive both theoretical and applied "hands-on" experience through required course work. Course work in the major is started the first semester that the student is on campus. Applied course work comprises both the riding classes as well as courses designed to give the student hands-on experience in equine management skills and teaching techniques. All of the care and management of the university horses is done by the students. Theoretical course work includes such topics as equine anatomy and nutrition, teaching methods, horse evaluation and selection, and stable management. Go to the current academic catalog to check out the course requirements for the EQS degree.

Proficiency Exams
Students in Equestrian Science must demonstrate a required level of proficiency by the conclusion of their sophomore year in order to declare the major.

Concentrations
EQS students select a concentration in one of the four riding disciplines taught at WWU: Dressage, Hunter/ Jumper, Saddle Seat or Western. They are also required to branch out and ride one semester in two concentrations other than their own. Each concentration has a specific string of horses that are used exclusively for that discipline.

Collateral Coursework
Students enrolled in Equestrian Science have the opportunity to take advantage of the other programs taught at WWU. Of special interest to EQS students are courses in the area of biology, education, equine administration, mass communications, psychology and sports medicine.

Horse Shows
Participation in horse show competitions is a vital part of the Equestrian Science experience. WWU participates in numerous horse shows throughout the academic year. These shows range from on-campus and local shows (held within a 100 mile radius of campus) to national "A" rated shows such as the American Royal in Kansas City, Missouri and the Quarter Horse World in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Students are responsible for their entry, stabling and hauling fees as well as their own expenses when showing. Costs to be anticipated in conjunction with horse shows vary with the level of the competition. Additional information on horse show costs is available.

EQS Minor
The Division of Equestrian Studies also offers a minor in Equestrian Science.

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