Several courses are available in hybrid format or web-assisted, meaning a portion of the lectures and coursework is conducted online.

We are now offering an online Equine Technician Certificate program. Five core courses are offered 100 percent online, for students who prefer distance learning or cannot come to Ocala for class. These classes are also ideal for someone new to horse ownership and cover topics such as safe handling, health care, nutrition and behavior. All courses can be applied to the Associate in Science in Equine Studies, however, those additional classes are not offered in online format at this point.

Classes are offered afternoons and evenings Monday-Thursday to allow students to work within the local horse community while pursuing a degree or certificate.

We have analyzed student data since 2004 and see a high incidence of academic failure in the first semester; therefore we recommend completing the college preparatory classes as soon as possible and limiting equine classes in the beginning. By doing this, students will be more prepared for college-level courses.

We recommend Introduction to Equine Science, Equine Anatomy and Physiology, Horse Handling and Safety, Equine Behavior and Psychology and Equine Health Care.

Once an official transcript is sent to the Office of Admissions and Records, it will be evaluated and accepted transfer courses will be posted to the student’s permanent academic record.

Many, if not all, CF Equine Studies credits will transfer to almost any four-year equine program, such as University of Kentucky, Midway College (KY), Morrisville State College (NY), William Woods College (MO), Savannah College of Art and Design (GA), and other colleges offering a B.S. in Equine Studies. Each college evaluates students on a case-by-case basis. Students considering such a transfer are encouraged to take higher level general education courses, such as those intended for an A.A. student. Meet with an advisor for specific recommendations.

No, but the Equine Manual Therapies course covers massage and other modalities.

While we do not offer an official veterinary technician program, our exercise physiology curriculum delivers vital education relating to working in the veterinary or rehabilitation field. Traditional veterinary technician programs have limited exposure to large animals such as horses, and focus on small animals. Completion of the CF Equine Studies program does not prepare students to pass the veterinary technician certification exam, but some of our graduates are employed by prominent veterinarians and vet clinics.

CF does not offer instruction in riding or training horses. However, the extensive local equine industry can offer working student positions where students can pursue riding opportunities.

Ocala is home to national and internationally renowned trainers of nearly every discipline of horse sport, many of whom accept students for lessons or working student positions outside of the curriculum offered at CF. Some local professionals also offer discounts to CF students.

We do not have stables at the college, but there are many local farms that offer boarding. Contact davidsom@cf.edu for a list of available boarding stables.

With the business management specialization, typical jobs include farm management, equine related retail management, or owning your own business in equine service. Equine Exercise Physiology graduates can find employment at a rehabilitation center, veterinary hospital or even as a show groom or assistant trainer for high performance equine athletes.

A bachelor degree opens the door to higher paying jobs within the equine industry. Typical jobs include field sales representative, technical service, publishing, marketing and advertising in areas such as pharmaceutical supplies, nutritional products, and equine tack and equipment.

There are none currently. If a student is interested in working with Thoroughbreds on the racetrack, they need to be licensed by the state racing commission. Trainers must also pass a written and hands-on test given by stewards.

Marie Davidson is the program manager. She holds a M.Ed. in Equine Education and is a lifelong international event rider, trainer and rehabilition manager. Dr. Marsha Pidherney is an equine veterinarian as well as full-time faculty. Angie Adkin i adjunct faculty and holds a Ph.D. with specializations in nutrition, behavior and physiology. Katie Bigge also serves as an adjunct professor. Holding a M.Ed., Ms. Bigge brings her experience as a world champion in showing all around Pinto world champions.

For an A.S. in Equine Studies a student is required to take 15 credit hours in general education and 49 credit hours encompass equine coursework.

The first classes were offered in 2003, and the program has steadily grown since. In a typical semester, more than 100 students are enrolled in equine programs.

CF is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Yes! The College of Central Florida has a beautiful farm located less than five miles away from the main CF campus in Ocala. Most of the equine courses offered are accompanied by hands-on labs at Vintage Farm. Students get the opportunity to handle and learn from our resident horses that live on the farm. In addition, Ocala is home to over 700 farms. We take advantage of this and utilize local farms to give students even further opportunity to experience hands-on learning.

Most equine courses offered are accompanied by hands-on labs, demonstrations or field trips. All students are required to complete a work experience co-op. Students are also able to work in the community, take lessons, volunteer, and complete internships in the community.

Equine Co-op is a capstone project that encompasses all knowledge the student has gained from the Equine Studies program. Therefore it is recommended for students in their last semester. Students independently obtain and work a job relating to the equine industry. Students need to seek a job in which they learn a new equine field or a new skill in an already familiar discipline. The job may be paying or non-paying, and must consist of at least 120 hours employment.

Absolutely. Students of all ages and experience can pursue a career in equine studies. There are many jobs that support the horse industry that do not require physical labor or expert horse handling skills, such as insurance sales, retail, bloodstock agents, marketing, or office staff for an equine facility.

For program information or to schedule an appointment: Contact Marie Davidson at 352-854-2322, Ext. 1424 or email davidsom@cf.edu