TURN YOUR PASSION INTO A CAREER

The Equine Science and Management (ESMA) program is a four-year Bachelor of Science degree with customizable specializations in equine science, equine management and industry, or communication, leadership and education.

Students from across the globe enroll at the University of Kentucky to live and learn in the heart of horse county. Our customizable and rigorous undergraduate degree program includes career-building enrichment activities and opportunities for sport and recreation through dozens of equine clubs and teams. There is no better place to pursue educational and career goals that align with your passion for the horse.

When students embark on a journey in the ESMA program, they begin a layered and comprehensive path to professionalism with a community of support from peers, faculty, staff and Kentucky’s equine industry. Students have a wide range of opportunities for academic rigor and meaningful enrichment activities, including internships, leadership development, study abroad programs, equine-related research.

Careers

The Equine and Science Management degree will prepare you for just about any career you can envision in the global, vibrant, and growing equine agricultural industries, including:

  • Bloodstock agent
  • Business administration
  • Communications
  • Equine extension specialist
  • Event planner
  • Lawyer
  • Research scientist
  • Sales
  • Trainer
  • Veterinarian

Accelerate Your Career Into Graduate School

For highly motivated students, the opportunity exists to integrate up to 12 credit hours of undergraduate and graduate coursework through the Accelerated Master’s Pathways or AMP program. Students will save time and money by receiving dual credit for select courses taken during their senior year of undergraduate studies. Those interested in pursuing this path to a graduate degree should consult with their academic advisor.

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THE BEST FOR A REASON

UK’s ESMA program is a QA Commons Essential Employability Qualities (EEQ) program, the only equine program in the nation to have this certification. The EEQs of communication, critical thinking, inquiry, collaboration, adaptability, professionalism, responsibility and ethics are woven into the curriculum to ensure students graduate with the skills needed to succeed in the industry.

Kentucky Signature Industries Career Fair
Student with Dr MacLeod

PRE-VETERINARY MEDICINE

ESMA students can concurrently complete the required coursework to apply for veterinary school. The Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment offers a separate Pre-Veterinary Mentoring program that dovetails seamlessly with the ESMA curriculum. Our location in central Kentucky provides students interested in equine-focused veterinary career paths with unique educational and mentoring opportunities.

Experiential Learning

Hands-on learning is at the heart of what we do in ESMA. Our program provides many opportunities for hands-on horse experience in the classroom and on the farm. From job opportunities related to foaling and Thoroughbred sales to the student leadership program to assisting with equine-related research at the world-renowned Gluck Research Center, we promote learning by doing.

EQM 105 Equine Behavior and Handling

Students learn about equine behavior and how to handle horses safely in a variety of management situations.

ASC 310 Equine Anatomy

Students study the functional anatomy of the horse, including skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular, and reproductive systems.

EQM 399 Equine Science and Management Internship

Students gain hands- on experience working in the horse industry, applying concepts learned in the classroom.

EQM 490 Capstone in Equine Science and Management

Students analyze scenarios of importance to today’s equine industry, from production to enterprise management.

Living Learning Program

The Living Learning Program (LLP) supports student success by placing students with similar interests into smaller communities in particular residence halls.

Academic Enrichment

Our college believes in learning by doing. Our students are required to complete at least one type of experiential or hands-on learning opportunity, such as undergraduate research, an internship or an education abroad experience.

Scholarships

Thanks to generous alumni, donors and community partners, we have one of the largest scholarship programs at UK. Only one application is required for our college’s scholarships, but there are hundreds of potential awards.

Student Services

We’re here to help you grow personally, academically and professionally.

Ready to turn your passion into a career?

Explore endless opportunities at the University of Kentucky and take the first step toward your future.

Academic Advisor II
Korie Burgess

Academic Advisor II
Hollie Hinkle

Academic Coordinator
Alicia Benben

Academic Coordinator
Mary Jane Little

Director of Undergraduate Studies
Jill Stowe, PhD

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