Choosing the Best College Equine Program for Your Career
When searching for the best college equine program, the answer often depends on your career goals and the pathway you wish to follow. As a case study, I will recount my experiences at SUNY Cobleskill in the late 1970s. This institution now offers a Bachelor of Technology (BT) program that caters to more than just horses, including agriculture, business, and other practical skills.
My Journey at SUNY Cobleskill
During my time at SUNY Cobleskill, my advisor, who was also the department head for the equine program, was instrumental in guiding my career path. Unfortunately, the equitation class was only available to majors, which made it challenging for enrolled students to take. However, she recognized my passion for working with horses and took me into her class as a special case. This experience was invaluable, as it allowed me to meet many new friends who shared a love for horses, but had little to no experience themselves.
Bachelor of Technology (BT) Program
The BT program at SUNY Cobleskill is designed to equip students with a broad range of skills, not just limited to horse handling and care. You can study equine sciences as well as feeds, soils, agribusiness, and even learn other related skills such as managing livestock, planting pastures, building fences, and more. This program is ideal for anyone who wants a well-rounded education in agriculture with the ability to specialize later on in their career.
The 2-year program can easily transition into a 4-year degree, making it a flexible and valuable option for students. While I found Cornell University to be more willing to accept this program, students at SUNY Cobleskill have the opportunity to transfer seamlessly into a 4-year degree. This flexibility is a great advantage for students who may not be ready to commit to a full 4-year program from the beginning.
Pursuing Veterinary Medicine as a Career
If your goal is to become a veterinarian, there are certain requirements and limitations to consider. Most veterinary programs require you to be a resident of the state where you apply. However, some states without their own veterinary school will accept students from neighboring states. For example, New Jersey students often attend Cornell, Ohio State, Georgia, Virginia, or North Carolina for their veterinary education.
Even if you are an excellent student, your chances of being accepted into a veterinary program are limited. You should have a viable backup plan for your career choice. If you are from a state like New Jersey, moving to a state where you can establish residency may significantly increase your chances of acceptance. Don't take this lightly—vet school can be a challenging and demanding journey.
Horse Production Career Paths
For students interested in majoring in horse production, it is crucial to choose a program that aligns with the industry of the region. States like New Jersey, New York, Kentucky, Florida, and Georgia offer strong equine industry support, making them great places to study horse production. These areas have a practical and supportive environment for students to develop their skills in managing racing stables, training, and other equine-related careers.
Horse breeding poses a different challenge, as it is not a profitable venture in the current market. With the recent cessation of horse slaughter in the US, horses cannot be given away or stored indefinitely. This reality makes it difficult for breeders to thrive, especially those who are not at the top of their breed. It is important to understand the financial realities before embarking on a career in horse breeding.
Conclusion
When choosing the best college equine program, it is essential to consider your career goals and the specific paths available to you. SUNY Cobleskill's BT program offers a well-rounded education that can be tailored to suit various students' needs. If your goal is veterinary medicine, ensure you have a solid plan B. And if you are interested in horse production, research the equine industry in the region to find the right program that will support your ambitions. With the right preparation and choice, you can build a successful career in the equine field.