Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College announces new Master of Science in Equine Studies program

Following receiving a grant toward the end of 2023 to make doing so possible, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College is set to begin offering a Master of Science in Equine Studies program in August 2024. The program is the first of its kind to be offered anywhere in the state of Indiana.

According to an article on Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College’s website, Edward Ferguson, Ph.D., who is the Department Chair of the Equine Studies program as well as an associate professor, was quoted as saying of the new program offering, “We are thrilled to embark on the journey of introducing a master’s program in equine studies to SMWC’s esteemed equine program, and our sincere gratitude goes out to the USDA for their invaluable support. This exciting endeavor enhances our rapidly expanding equine department. It provides an opportunity for County Extension Agents, HS Ag teachers, and 4-H agents to access ongoing education within the dynamic equine industry. Additionally, our program will feature dedicated study paths for those aspiring to become equestrian coaches and instructors, alongside diverse research and non-research options for students pursuing their passion in equine studies.”

The grant that was awarded to Saint Mary-of-the-Woods came from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture in the amount of $148,616. The funding went toward developing the new Master of Science in Equine Studies program.

Currently, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College offers an undergraduate degree in Equine Science. The existing program prepares students for careers with horses, and focuses on business, leadership, psychology, and science. The graduate program will build upon these topics, but will also offer concentrations in Equine Science and Equine Coaching and Instruction. 

The Master of Science in Equine Studies program will be a hybrid program that offers both hands-on practical experiences and virtual learning, making the program more accessible, since it is the only one available in the whole state.

Janet Clark, Ph.D., who serves as provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College, expressed her excitement to be able to offer the program thanks to receiving the grant from the USDA, saying, “We are grateful to the USDA for their award to assist in the addition of this graduate degree. SMWC is the only college in Indiana that offers a bachelor’s degree in equine studies, and offering a master’s degree seemed to be the next step in developing our equine program. Our facilities and staff will allow us to make this expansion effectively and efficiently.” 

For more information about Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College, visit the school’s website.