Equine Industry Program

LOCATION

Lexington, Kentucky

WEBSITE

https://bluegrass.kctcs.edu/education-training/program-finder/equine-studies.aspx

MISSION

The Equine program at Bluegrass Community & Technical College prepares students for careers in the global equine industry through a blend of classroom instruction, hands-on practice, and work-based learning. Students graduate ready to meet industry expectations for employment in areas such as equine health care, racing operations, breeding, training, and farm management. The program also supports transfer opportunities for students pursuing advanced study in equine science, business, or agriculture-related fields. BCTC Equine is Home of the North American Racing Academy, which provides the only college-accredited racehorse riding program in the United States.

TARGET AUDIENCE

Anyone interested in a career with horses!

DEGREE, DIPLOMA, AND CERTIFICATE OPTIONS

BCTC Equine offers an Associate in Applied Science in Equine Studies and the following certificates:

Equine Industry Workforce Certificate
Equine Veterinary Assistant Certificate
Exercise Rider Certificate
Equine International Business Certificate

Through these degree and certificate options, graduates gain practical competencies valued by the equine industry—ranging from hands-on horse care to specialized technical roles and international business management—while developing professional skills that open doors to both immediate employment and further education.

Learn more about our program offerings in the course catalog!

TYPES OF COURSES RELATED TO THE THOROUGHBRED INDUSTRY

Equine Care Lab
Introduction to the Racing Industry
Equine Bloodstock
Introduction to Commercial Breeding
Introduction to Racehorse Riding
Racehorse Rider Development
Thoroughbred Training Principles
Thoroughbred Training & Sales Cooperative Education

CAREER PATHWAYS

In as little as one semester, students are eligible for internship placement at a variety of equine operations around the world. Students can build upon their education and experience in a full-time, paid internship while completing their degree through the program’s online and hybrid course offerings.

Our students have been employed with Hall of Fame Thoroughbred trainers, international Thoroughbred breeding and sales operations, and top-class equine veterinary clinics. Graduates hold positions in the industry such as: