Equestrian Studies
Program Features
- Small class sizes and individualized instruction
- Extensive opportunities to ride with instruction
- Hands-on interaction and responsibilities from day one
- Opportunities to compete and participate in national, regional and community horse shows
- Visiting industry professionals and experts who present clinics on campus and network with students
- Prince of Wales Club, the country’s oldest continuously active riding club, as well as Stephens Equine Therapeutic Association
- Extensive career services and a network of alumni dedicated to helping students connect in the industry
- 100% job placement rate for five years in a row
Additional Application Required
In addition to applying to Stephens College, students interested in majoring in Equestrian Studies must complete a supplemental application.
The Stephens College Equestrian Center
It’s all about location — and the Stephens Equestrian program couldn’t ask for a better one. An easy walk from campus, our Equestrian Center is a vital part of the Stephens College footprint, nestled between campus and downtown on one side and a beautiful park on the other. Our Equestrian Center is also proud to be one of Columbia’s “Most Notable Properties.” For generations, the center has been home to a special group of horses including Quarter Horses, Saddlebreds, Paints and Pintos, and Warmbloods.
Our center is also the center of our commitment to mid-Missouri and the community we call home. Various public events and summer camps invite the community to enjoy the experience of riding as well.
Riding Experience
No prior riding experience is required for either track. Our curriculum is designed to help students understand equine behavior and horse handling to ensure they are prepared for the wide variety of careers involving the business and science aspects of the industry. Our equine behavior and horse handling courses make students particularly well attuned to equine behavioral signals to ensure their safety while working with young and potentially unpredictable animals.
I was immediately immersed in real-life hands-on equine experiences and learning from the horses themselves, not just classroom lectures. I have been challenged to think through the eyes of a horse and navigate in a way they understand. Stephens has allowed me to grow my equestrian skills but also grow who I am in my core.
Ryann Baker ’25
What does a block schedule look like?
Take a look at the below sample block schedule for a first-year Equine major. The Block offers the rare opportunity to focus on what matters: learning, doing, and getting ready for your future. Want to know more? Contact an Advisor academicaffairs@stephens.edu.
Three Disciplines, Two Tracks, One Family
No matter your focus, you’ll find a caring faculty who help you find your path, a sense of community and commitment, and a supportive culture. We offer three riding disciplines: Hunter/Jumper, Western, and Driving.
We also offer two focus areas, which \we call “tracks”. Learn more below.
Equine Business Track
Prepare to lead, manage, and innovate within an evolving equine industry. From equine facility management and entrepreneurship to the business operations that support the broader horse industry, students develop leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills to navigate challenges, recognize opportunities, and help shape the industry’s future.
Equine Science Track
Explore the science behind equine health, behavior, and well-being. Through scientific inquiry and hands-on learning, students develop the knowledge and critical thinking skills to understand the horse, apply evidence-based practices, and promote equine welfare. This track is particularly well-suited for students interested in veterinary medicine, equine nutrition, research, and other science-based careers within the equine industry.
Equestrian Studies Minor
Please contact Sara Linde Patel at slinde@stephens.edu with questions about the equestrian studies minor and how it can enhance your major.
Minor Requirements
The Equestrian Studies minor is particularly useful for students in the Biology/Pre-Vet and Psychology programs. The minor is open to all students with no equine experience necessary. The minor requires completion of a minimum of 15 semester hours in EQS, including the required courses listed below and at least 6 semester hours at or above the 300 level.
Required Courses:
- EQS 114: Equine Behavior (3 hrs.)
- EQS 130: Equine Management I (3 hrs.)
Related programs
Contact Us
Equestrian Studies
Sara Linde-Patel, Coordinator
(573) 876-7144
slinde@stephens.eduStephens College Equestrian Center