The Degrees

The goals and purpose of the Bachelor of Science degree in Natural Horsemanship, a 4-year accredited university degree program, are to provide students with a well-rounded, high quality education in equine theory and science, combined with the practical skills of Natural Horsemanship. Horsemanship skills taught in the hands-on, real-world and practical classes are based upon the principles of equine behavior, instinct and personality, along with horse training methods of experts who are world-renowned in Natural Horsemanship and similar disciplines.

The University of Montana Western offers four degrees in Equine Studies:

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Natural Horsemanship 

This four-year degree program gives students the opportunity to learn the skills of natural horsemanship and to pursue and obtain careers in the many equine-related fields as well as prepare those students who want to go on to advanced studies or pursue degrees and careers in veterinary medicine and other similar areas.

Majors include:

    • Management
    • Psychology
    • Science
    • Instruction

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Business Administration, Equine Management Option

    • This degree provides the information and background needed to start or manage an equestrian-related business.

Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Equine Studies

    • This two-year degree is designed to provide students with a background for pursuing a career that draws on their passion for horses.

Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Natural Horsemanship

    • This two-year degree program gives students the opportunity to learn some of the skills of natural horsemanship and obtain a career in many equine-related fields.

The U.S. equine industry is a 100 billion dollar a year industry that offers a wide range of equine-related professions. Some common careers that graduates are prepared for include:

▪    Natural Horsemanship-instructors
▪    Natural Horsemanship-focused 
▪    Equine Reproduction Manager
▪    Stable Manager
▪    Ranch Manager
▪    Riding Instructor or Coach

▪    Guest Ranch or Resort manager
▪    Equine Nutritional Consultant
▪    Horse-drawn Driver or Carriage Driver
▪    Farrier
▪    Barn Trainer or Manager
▪    Mounted Tour Guide

The program also provides students with an undergraduate education that prepares them for post-graduate studies in Veterinary Medicine, Law, and other fields.