Beginning in August 2024, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC) will offer the first Master of Science in Equine Studies in Indiana. SMWC was awarded $148,616 from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) in fall 2023 to develop the program.
Janet Clark, Ph.D., provost and executive vice president for academic affairs, said, “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.”
SMWC’s hybrid graduate curriculum in equine studies and leadership aims to make advanced equine studies accessible to Indiana students. The Master of Science in Equine Studies (MSE) program focuses on small class sizes, practical instruction and online learning, offering an affordable alternative for regional students. The program targets graduates in animal sciences and equine professionals, promoting diversity through partnerships with minority institutions. MSE, emphasizing Equine Science and Equine Coaching and Instruction, supports the growth of the equine industry. The MSE program combines equine, animal science and general agriculture, offering hands-on learning experiences and industry technology integration. SMWC’s existing undergraduate Equine Studies program blends science, business, psychology and leadership, preparing students for equine professions. The MSE expands on this foundation, offering focused equine studies with tailored concentrations and advanced leadership training. The program’s unique blend of on-campus and virtual instruction provides flexibility. Its hands-on learning and industry integration offer valuable experiences for students seeking practical skills.
Edward Ferguson, Ph.D., associate professor and department chair of equine studies, believes that expanding the department with a graduate degree is the natural next step for the Equine Department. With the stables, equine classroom and more than 40 horses located on campus, the addition of this program to the Mari Hulman George School of Equine Studies will be a good fit for the department.
Ferguson said, “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.”
For more information, please contact the Admissions Office at admissions@smwc.edu or visit smwc.edu.