Lamar Community College (LCC) has been a cornerstone for equine education since the 1970s, offering specialized associate degrees in Horse Training and Management and Equine Business Management. These programs, born from a recognized need within the ranching community, continue to thrive fifty years later, empowering students for successful careers in the dynamic horse industry. LCC’s commitment extends beyond horsemanship, fostering essential business acumen for graduates to excel in various sectors of this multi-billion dollar industry.
Career Opportunities in the Equine Industry
The horse industry is a significant economic driver in the United States, contributing an estimated $122 billion to the US economy and supporting 1.7 million jobs. For those passionate about horses, careers within this sector can be both rewarding and lucrative, with 50% of horse owners reporting an annual income exceeding $100,000. LCC’s programs are designed to equip students with the skills for a diverse range of roles, including:
- 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
The Associate of Applied Science in Equine Business Management is meticulously crafted to provide students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge essential for a successful career in the horse industry. While horsemanship skills are honed, the program places a significant emphasis on the business management aspects. Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in equine nutrition, reproduction, rehabilitation, veterinary medicine, instruction, and boarding operations. The curriculum culminates in an internship, allowing students to gain invaluable real-world experience with an equine professional of their choice.
Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:
- Describe and apply knowledge of horse anatomy, physiology, body condition, vital signs, unsoundness, illness, preventative healthcare, wound care, and nutrition, including the application of rehabilitation equipment and techniques.
- Understand and implement equine business practices, including creating business and marketing plans, developing effective resumes and cover letters, and communicating proficiently with financial advisors.
- Recognize and understand equine reproduction anatomy, techniques, practices, and technologies, and apply foaling skills.
- Demonstrate advanced horsemanship skills, including groundwork, controlling horse body parts, and executing various maneuvers and patterns with different types of horses.
- Evaluate sale techniques, understand the impact of personalities on sales, and actively assist in facilitating horse sales.
- Exemplify essential employable skills such as proper communication, timeliness, a positive attitude, initiative, and cooperation.
Equine Business Management Certificate
For individuals seeking a focused pathway into the horse industry, the Equine Business Management Certificate offers a comprehensive skill set. This program, while also developing horsemanship abilities, prioritizes business management principles within the equine context.
Associate of Applied Science in Horse Training & Management
The Horse Training & Management program is tailored for students with advanced western riding interests. It seamlessly integrates theory with practical application, designed as a sequential two-year course of study commencing in the fall semester. In addition to general education requirements, students are tasked with “green breaking” at least three colts and providing specialized training for an additional horse. The degree culminates in a required internship with a chosen trainer, ensuring a robust hands-on learning experience.
Graduates of the Horse Training & Management program will demonstrate proficiency in:
- Effectively performing chores and tasks required for safe barn operations.
- Illustrating and applying professional employability skills, emphasizing timeliness and quality animal care.
- Saddling and bridling colts according to professional standards.
- Managing colt progression through walking, trotting, and loping.
- Producing and performing showmanship patterns with colts, showcasing groundwork development.
Specialized Certificate Programs
LCC offers a variety of specialized certificate programs to further refine equine skills:
- Rope Horse Training Certificate: (More information coming soon!)
- Barrel Horse Training Certificate: (More information coming soon!)
- Ranch Horse Training Certificate: (More information coming soon!)
- Fundamental Horse Training Certificate: This one-year program provides students with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for basic horse training. FHT Certificate Plan Fundamental Horse Training Gainful Employment Disclosure
- Starting Colts Certificate: This intensive one-year program focuses on hands-on experience, equipping students with the skills and knowledge to begin breaking colts for riding. SC Certificate Plan Starting Colts Gainful Employment Disclosure
- Advanced Horsemanship Certificate: Building upon the Starting Colts certificate, this one-year program includes hands-on experience and a one-semester internship with a professional trainer. Admission requires successful completion of the Starting Colts certificate or instructor permission. AH Certificate Plan Advanced Horsemanship Gainful Employment Disclosure
Program Details and Hands-On Experience
LCC’s Horse Training & Management and Equine Business Management programs are designed to prepare students for direct entry into the workforce. While not primarily transfer-oriented, some coursework may be accepted by institutions offering bachelor’s degrees; consulting an academic advisor is recommended for transfer opportunities.
Each semester, students gain tangible proficiency in various aspects of the horse industry. The curriculum emphasizes practical, hands-on learning in classrooms, barns, and arenas. Riding course assessments culminate in semester-end horse shows, where students demonstrate their training progress and horsemanship skills through arena patterns.
Beyond technical skills, students develop crucial employable attributes through LCC’s work ethic and communication standards. Participation in the feed crew provides daily experience caring for over 50 horses, fostering responsibility and comfort in managing multiple animals. The college’s absence policy reinforces the importance of punctuality and dedication to duties. For those pursuing an Associate’s Degree, a capstone internship serves as the ultimate measure of applied learning. Enrollment is intentionally limited to facilitate individualized instruction and maximize student-faculty interaction.
Lamar Community College’s Horse Training & Management Program actively engages with approximately 90 two-year-old colts annually for green-breaking, and an additional 30 horses for advanced training. These horses are sourced from breeders across multiple states. Breeders interested in participating in this program are encouraged to apply. Please contact the HTM instructor for more information on submitting a horse to the program.
