We are accustomed to receiving a lot of questions about the Equine Sciences program here at Colorado State University. For that reason, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions. If you do not see what you are looking for, please feel free to contact us and we will do our best to help you out!

A sorrel foal at the ERL

What sets your Equine Sciences program apart from others?


We were the first land-grant university to offer a four-year degree in Equine Sciences. Upon completion of the program requirements, our students graduate with a Bachelors of Science degree in Equine Sciences. Additionally, we continue to be one of the only programs in the nation to offer a comprehensive curriculum that encompasses all areas of the equine industry. View our course list today!

What will I do with an Equine Sciences degree?


Our equine science students leave CSU and obtain employment in a variety of areas within the equine industry including:

  • Equine reproduction
  • Sales (nutrition, tack, real estate, pharmaceuticals, etc.)
  • Journalism and marketing positions at breed associations or publications
  • Vet school
  • Horse training or barn management
  • Riding instructors
  • Equine assisted activities and therapies
  • Graduate programs in nutrition, reproduction, exercise physiology and genetics
  • Sale and event management (including show management)
  • Marketing (for equine publications, associations, etc.)

What are the requirements for being admitted into the Equine Sciences program?


We are not a restricted major and therefore do not have any additional requirements beyond general CSU Admissions. If you are accepted into CSU, you are able to elect Equine Sciences as your major! For more information on admissions requirements, please visit the Admissions website.

Are you required to have a horse?


No, you are not required to have a horse as an Equine Sciences major. Any classes involving hands-on work with horses will provide horses for students to use.

Do you board horses on campus?


No, we do not board horses on campus. However, there are multiple boarding facilities in the Fort Collins area with varying levels of horse boarding available.

Do you have an NCAA Equestrian Team or an IHSA Team?


No, we do not. We do however have an English Riding Club, a Versatility Ranch Horse Club, a Rodeo Club and a Polo Club. There is also an IHSA Team (english and western) that is not affiliated with our equine program and is housed off-campus. Learn more about our Student Organizations!

Do you have to have horse experience to be an Equine Sciences major?


No, you are not required to have prior horse experience. We do encourage students with less experience to take advantage of every opportunity they can once here at CSU to help increase their hands-on knowledge and skills.

Do you offer a minor in Equine Sciences?


At this time there is not a minor offered for Equine Sciences.

Are there employment opportunities at the Equine Center?


Yes, but they are limited. We have positions available on the Feed Crew and one work-study position available in the front office.

Outside of the Equine Center, there are multiple positions and volunteer opportunities that become available at the following locations:

  • Equine Reproduction Lab
  • Equine Orthopedic Research Center
  • Vet Teaching Hospital

If I don't have a car, how do I get out to the Equine Center?


There is a bus system – free to CSU students – that leaves from the student center on main campus and drops off at the Equine Center entrance. Learn more about the bus schedule.

Do you offer night classes or weekend classes?


No, we do not offer night classes or weekend classes at this time.