The horse industry is a significant economic driver in the United States, contributing billions of dollars and millions of jobs. Recognizing the growing need for skilled professionals within this dynamic sector, Lamar Community College (LCC) established its Horse Training and Management associate degree program in the 1970s. Fifty years later, LCC continues to be a leading institution, offering comprehensive associate degrees in Horse Training and Management and Equine Business Management, empowering students for successful careers.
Career Opportunities in the Equine Industry
The American Horse Council reports that the horse industry injects an estimated $122 billion into the U.S. economy and supports 1.7 million jobs. This vibrant sector offers a diverse range of career paths for individuals with specialized training. Graduates of LCC’s programs are well-prepared for roles such as:
- Horse Training & Management: Cowhorse trainer apprentice, cutting trainer apprentice, reining trainer apprentice, rope horse trainer apprentice, and barrel trainer apprentice.
- Equine Business Management: Horse vet technician, barn manager, horse sales coordinator, breeding program manager, riding instructor, horse product sales representative, horse journalist, and horse rehabilitation manager.
Associate of Applied Science in Equine Business Management
LCC’s Equine Business Management program equips students with the essential skills to thrive in the horse industry, with a particular emphasis on the business aspects. While developing strong horsemanship, students gain in-depth knowledge of equine nutrition, reproduction, rehabilitation, veterinary medicine, and business management. The curriculum includes creating business and marketing plans, honing communication skills, and culminates in an internship with an equine professional.
Graduates of this program will be proficient in:
- Understanding and applying equine anatomy, physiology, healthcare, and nutrition.
- Developing sound business plans, financial strategies, and marketing approaches.
- Recognizing and utilizing equine reproduction techniques.
- Demonstrating advanced horsemanship skills, including groundwork and various riding maneuvers.
- Evaluating sales techniques and facilitating horse sales.
- Exhibiting crucial employability skills such as communication, timeliness, and a positive attitude.
Equine Business Management Certificate
For those seeking to gain a competitive edge in the equine industry through focused business and horsemanship training, the Equine Business Management Certificate offers a concise yet comprehensive curriculum.
Associate of Applied Science in Horse Training & Management
The Horse Training & Management program is designed for students passionate about advanced western riding and practical horse training. This rigorous, two-year program integrates theory with hands-on experience, requiring students to “green break” at least three colts and train an additional horse. The curriculum demands progression through a specific course sequence, beginning in the fall semester. In addition to general education requirements, students complete a capstone internship with a professional trainer to finalize their degree.
Upon completion, graduates will be able to:
- Perform barn chores and tasks safely and efficiently.
- Exhibit professional employability skills, including punctuality and quality animal care.
- Master the processes of saddling, bridling, and managing young colts through walking, trotting, and loping.
- Demonstrate groundwork progression and perform showmanship patterns with colts.
Specialized Certificate Programs
LCC offers a variety of specialized certificate programs catering to specific training interests:
- Rope Horse Training Certificate: More information available soon.
- Barrel Horse Training Certificate: More information available soon.
- Fundamental Horse Training Certificate: This one-year program provides foundational knowledge and skills for training horses.
- Starting Colts Certificate: This one-year program focuses on imparting the skills and knowledge necessary for breaking colts for riding through hands-on experience.
- Advanced Horsemanship Certificate: Building upon the Starting Colts certificate, this program combines practical experience with a one-semester internship. Admission requires successful completion of the Starting Colts certificate or instructor permission.
Program Details and Hands-On Experience
Lamar Community College’s horse programs are meticulously crafted to prepare students for diverse roles within the horse industry. While not primarily designed for transfer, some coursework may be applicable toward a bachelor’s degree. Students are encouraged to consult with an academic advisor for transfer opportunities.
The curriculum emphasizes a hands-on approach, with learning experiences taking place in classrooms, barns, and arenas. Student proficiency in riding courses is evaluated through semester-ending horse shows, where they demonstrate their training progress and horsemanship skills. Beyond technical skills, students develop essential work ethic and communication abilities through interactions with instructors, partners, and horse owners. Participation in the feed crew provides daily experience caring for over 50 horses, reinforcing responsibility and animal welfare.
LCC’s Horse Training & Management program uniquely accepts approximately 90 two-year-old colts annually for students to green-break, along with an additional 30 horses for advanced training. These horses are sourced from breeders across several states, who must apply to have their horses participate in the program. Breeders interested in contributing to this valuable learning experience are encouraged to contact the HTM instructor. Enrollment in these programs is limited to ensure individualized instruction and maximize student learning outcomes.
