Professional Horsemanship

117 Principles of Riding Instruction- This course assists students in preparing for careers as riding instructors. It helps students learn how good instruction is a series of goal-oriented steps, rather than just a day-to-day critique of performance. Students in this course will prepare to complete the certification processes for nationally accredited instructor certification programs such as those offered by Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA), United States Hunter Jumper Association (ASHJA) or the American Riding Instructors Association (ARIA). Students will also have opportunities to observe, student-teach along side and critique a variety of practicing riding instructors.

Prerequisites: 106 General Horsemanship and 1 section of 107 Horsemanship and Equitation, 2 sections of 107 Horsemanship and Equitation or permission of course instructor.

118 Principles of Professional Riding and Training- This course prepares students for careers as entry-level professional riders and/or horse trainers. As a group, students will look at how good riding and training are a series of goal orientated steps and not just a day-to-day reaction to current situations. Students will review current training methods and riding techniques, and have an opportunity to observe, critique and interview a variety of practicing professional riders and trainers. Individually, students will contract to enhance their own riding ability by working with a practicing professional in the student’s chosen horse sport specialty.

Prerequisites: 106 General Horsemanship, 2 Sections of 107 General Horsemanship and equitation or permission of the course instructor.

119 Equine Internship- This course allows students to have direct day-to-day experience working with local horse professionals. Students may work in paid, volunteer or working student positions when possible in the equine career fields that interest them most. Available positions may include, but are not limited to, jobs as riding instructors, training assistants, stable management assistants, tack store staff, breeding farm staff, therapeutic riding assistants, videography assistants, youth group assistants, equine organization staff and veterinary assistants.

Prerequisites/Co-Requisites: To be eligible for this course, students must have completed all course work in the EIEC Horse Health Care or Equine Business Management programs, or they must have completed or be simultaneously enrolled in 117 Principles of Riding Instruction, 118 Principles of Professional Riding and Training or 123 Training III. Beginning and inexperienced riders are not eligible for riding, training or teaching internships. Requirements may be waived only with permission from EIEC and the student’s internship employer.