Equine Racing Management, A.A.S., Major #0698

This program has been deactivated and students will no longer be admitted to the major.  Currently enrolled students will complete the degree in accordance with the approved teach-out plan.

Equine Racing Management is a ThinkPad University curriculum in which the use of laptop computers is integrated into courses.

This program prepares students for work as assistant trainers or grooms at race tracks with an emphasis on harness and thoroughbred racing. It also prepares students for the examination for licensure. Students enrolled in the thoroughbred racing option will have their riding abilities and weight evaluated if exercise rider or jockey are of primary interest.

Facilities for practical experience include an all-weather half-mile training track, stabling, turnout paddocks, two round pens, an 80-foot by 264-foot indoor arena, and a new 100-foot by 200-foot indoor arena. The college has more than 250 horses on site. During the first two years, five credit hours each semester are concentrated in practical work at the college track. Students continue work on the horses with emphasis placed on racing and on areas such as shoeing, training problems, breaking yearlings, and preparation for the annual sale. 

The SUNY Morrisville Equine Rehabilitation Center (SUNY MorrisvilleERC) facility includes a 22,000 square foot rehabilitation center building with classroom and administrative offices, a large rehabilitation treatment area, and ten stalls. A 31-stall barn for the thoroughbred Racing Program and a 140 by 300 foot indoor riding arena are also located at this facility. Therapeutic modalities available at the Equine Rehabilitation Center include aquatic therapies (underwater treadmill, cold salt water spa therapy, indoor swimming  pool),  therapeutic  ultrasound, laser therapy (Class IIIB), cold compression therapy, solariums, and therapeutic exercises.

In addition, horse-related courses such as anatomy and physiology, breeding, nutrition, equine farm management and general horse care (health and lameness) are taken throughout the two-year program. General Education courses in science, math, English, and social science round out the requirements (20 credit hours minimum).

Part of the uniqueness of this program is the summer option where students have the opportunity to compete in actual races.

 Student Learning Outcomes

Upon Successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate safe procedures, sound judgment and critical thinking skills in human and horse interactions when handling on the ground, astride or driving.

• Develop and/or recognize proper body position and effective use of seat, leg, hands and/or voice aids for ground-handling, riding or driving.

• Conduct the necessary research, analysis, evaluation, and critical thinking skills required of equine management and demonstrate the ability to develop a well organized approach to address common problems related to equine training and management.

• Demonstrate an understanding of equine behavior and how it relates to developing trained responses.

• Understand the importance of providing a balanced ration and be able to apply principles of nutrition to meet the needs of horses that is commensurate with varied uses and workloads.

• Understand the principles and techniques of modern equine reproduction and how utilization of sound breeding management practices can improve breeding efficiency.

• Utilize a systematic method of evaluating conformation and observing performance to accurately gauge individual improvement and to make qualified comparisons between horses.

• Develop and implement health management practices and skills to recognize signs of lameness and a fundamental understanding of treatment therapies.

• Develop a positive, confident outlook and a responsible work ethic that is likely to attract success as an equine professional.

• Develop sound ethical principles and judgment when dealing with employers, employees, and clients.

 Curriculum Requirements - 67 Credits

Suggested Course Sequence