This is a horse profession which doesn’t allow as much hands on time with the animals, but it does allow knowledgeable individuals to pass on their wisdom and create a better future for horses in general.
What You Need
Obviously being a professor takes more than just a love of horses, but there is a wide variety of directions & subjects to choose from. Education is the key for this career and you’ll need lots of it. This is a job that requires an intense love of the subject, the ability to research as well as the ability to relate the information to students. For each program & each school there will be varying requirements & internship programs available.
Probably the first (and most important) step for becoming a college professor within the horse industry is deciding on a specialty. Then follow the proper educational path to achieve the goals within that industry.
Not So Hands On
For those of you who want to get your hands dirty on the job, this career may not be a good fit. Generally those who enjoy research and furthering their understanding as well as natural leadership ability and an understanding of basic teaching principles will appreciate this position.
Job Description
The description for this job will be different by country, state and even by school. However, this is primarily a teaching position, regardless of the subject you choose to teach. Professors will work with students, animals, the community and school administration to fulfill their duties.
Responsibilities
Research
Work with local community to develop extension programs
Follow curriculum guidelines to establish & teach effective lesson plans
Teaching established structured theories
Advising students
Working with school administration to develop new programs
Participate in the academic life of their department and/ or school
Develop research and publications to further the interest of their department
Requirements
Obviously this is a position which requires a lot of education to achieve, and will invariably vary by country and state. Most universities or colleges will require a Ph.D. or D.V.M. in Equine Science or a closely related field, but some will ask for an M.S. along with documentable experience in the industry.
Resources
A few places to start if you are interested in a career as a university or college professor in the equine industry.
*Links opens in a new window
List of Horse Colleges & Universities
College and University Equine Studies Programs
List of Top 10 Equine Colleges
The Right Job For You?
If this isn’t your dream horse job, try using the search below to find it. You can also find more horse job descriptions on our careers page.
Another option in Australia is to teach at TAFE, which can often involve hands on with horses on a weekly basis. This will require a Certificate IV in TAE.