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Horse Science M.S.

The Master of Science in Horse Science at MTSU centers on a curriculum designed to prepare graduates for the multi-faceted equine industry. Programs are tailored to students’ interests and produce graduates able to adapt to and thrive in this dynamic field. Students may choose from Equine Education, Equine Physiology or Industry Management concentrations. Only the top qualified applicants are invited for an interview at the applicant’s expense, prior to final acceptance into the program. Faculty members mentor students in curriculum development and provide training in scientific methods, principles of equine student education and instruction, and general industry practices. All M.S. degree candidates share a common core of coursework in statistics, research methods, and multiple disciplines in horse science and animal science. A significant number of elective credit hours are available, permitting each student to customize the program with courses in other departments. A limited number of graduate teaching assistantships are available.


What We're Doing

Graduate student uses equine therapy to aid veterans

Graduate student uses equine therapy to aid veterans

Horse Science M.S. graduate Sarah English and university horses have helped U.S. military veterans in a collaborative program between MTSU’s horse science program and the local Veterans Recovery Center. Veterans can enroll in the 10-week class, called the Center of Equine Recovery for Veterans (CERV), as part of their recovery plan. English, an advanced instructor through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.), says equine therapy helps veterans strengthen communication and build confidence. The CERV program, the master’s project for English, is one area in the growing field of Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies. “To be able to watch these individuals discover hope and renew belief in themselves and be able to reintegrate in their community was just beyond description,” says English, now an MTSU instructor. “Horses are like mirrors; they respond to a person's body language. In this, the horse becomes an instant 'bio-feedback' machine, enabling the participant to recognize behaviors or emotions that are dwelling beneath the surface.” The horses utilized for CERV, including Major, Dollar, Jay-R, and Harley, also compete and are used in MTSU equine classes. (Photo by Angel Pardue)

MTSU students teach horsemanship clinics in Europe

MTSU students teach horsemanship clinics in Europe

Horse Science graduate students Helen Hardy, Ariel Herrin and Andrea (Smith) Rego conducted international horsemanship clinics in Europe in summer 2015 after MTSU won a grant from the American Quarter Horse Association. Dr. Holly Spooner, director of the Horse Science master’s program, headed up the overseas trip that also included undergraduates Seneca Ewing and Delaney Rostad. “The chance to travel to these countries and see other parts of the world, all while spreading my passion of the American Quarter Horse, is without a doubt the experience of a lifetime," says Herrin, a 2014 world champion. The Middle Tennessee State University students expanded their teaching and horsemanship skills while meeting new friends in Sweden and England, Spooner says. "We definitely learned that the language of horses is universal,” Rego says. Hardy says she learned from both participants and fellow clinicians: "I am so fortunate to have gained a unique perspective on the international industry that have benefitted me as an instructor and rider."


Related Media

  • MTSU College of Graduate Studies

    MTSU College of Graduate Studies

  • MTSU | The University of Opportunities

    MTSU | The University of Opportunities

 
 
 

A wide variety of careers are associated with the horse industry. A student’s talent may pertain directly to horses or to science, education, marketing, management, or business. Some potential career options with advanced degrees in Horse Science follow:

  • Collegiate horsemanship instructor or equestrian team coach
  • Community college or technical school instructor
  • Equine behaviorist
  • Equine exercise physiologist
  • Equine facilities manager
  • Equine nutritionist, equine feed specialist, or nutrition laboratory technician
  • Equine reproductive physiologist
  • Horse extension specialist or extension agent
  • Instructor or program coordinator of therapeutic riding and equine-assisted therapies
  • Journalist for major horse publications (breed or discipline-specific magazines)
  • Pasture management specialist
  • Pharmaceutical representative for equine products
  • University instructor or teaching professor specializing in horses

Employers of MTSU alumni

This information is still being compiled since the Horse Science M.S. program is relatively new.

Graduate

The Master of Science in Horse Science is offered with three concentrations:

  • Equine Education includes interdisciplinary courses in coaching and sports management to strengthen knowledge for careers as collegiate riding instructors, equestrian team coaches, horse judging team coaches, or agents for the Cooperative Extension Service.
  • Equine Physiology emphasizes an interdisciplinary, science-based curriculum structured to build knowledge of scientific principles and apply these principles to a thesis research project related to equine science. Students successfully completing the concentration are prepared for admission into an animal science or equine science Ph.D. program. Students entering this concentration must have a strong foundation in undergraduate biology and chemistry, including organic chemistry.
  • Industry Management allows students to complete interdisciplinary courses in business management, marketing, and/or sports management to tailor their curriculum for specific industry-related careers.

Equine Education or Industry Management students may choose a research-based thesis or a non-thesis equine experiential learning option. Equine Physiology students must complete a research-based thesis.

The selection procedure is a two-phase process. Based on a review of applications to the M.S. Horse Science program, qualified students are invited for an interview at their expense. Not all applicants are invited for the personal interview.

Horse Science M.S. applicants must have

  • A 3.0 GPA from a minimum of 12 credit hours of upper-division undergraduate horse science and/or animal science courses, or equivalent industry experience as approved by the Horse Science Graduate Committee.
  • Satisfactory Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Miller Analogies Test (MAT) scores. Successful applicants typically have GRE Verbal and Quantitative scores exceeding 146 and 140 respectively (current scale) or 400 each (former scale), with a total combined score that exceeds 286 (current scale) or 800 (former scale), or a score above 385 on the MAT.

Application deadlines are April 15 (Summer or Fall admission) and Oct. 1 (Spring admission).

For complete curriculum details, click on the REQUIREMENTS button to the right.

Undergraduate

Undergraduate students who wish to study Horse Science choose the concentration under the Animal Science major and earn a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree. Other majors in the School of Agriculture leading to a B.S. are Agribusiness, and Plant and Soil Science.

Undergraduate and graduate minors are available in Agriculture.

Equine Education

Horse Science, Equine Education Concentration, M.S.

Alyssa Logan, Program Coordinator
615-494-8849
Alyssa.Logan@mtsu.edu

The School of Agriculture offers the Master of Science (M.S.) in Horse Science, designed to prepare graduates for the multifaceted equine industry. Students may choose one of three concentrations: Equine Education, Equine Physiology, or Industry Management.

Please see undergraduate catalog for information regarding undergraduate programs.

Admission Requirements

Admissions are based on a comprehensive assessment of a candidate's qualifications including Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores, undergraduate and graduate grade point average, letter of intent, letters of recommendation, and a personal interview.

Applicants who do not meet admission requirements but whose overall record indicates the potential for success may be considered for non-degree admission. Students must meet all conditions established by the Horse Science Graduate Committee in order to gain full acceptance to the program.

Application Procedures

All application materials are to be submitted to the College of Graduate Studies.

The application deadline is April 15 for those wishing to be considered for graduate assistantships and admission in the Summer or Fall. October 1 is the application deadline for admission in the Spring. Applications will be accepted after these dates, but admission consideration is not guaranteed.

Applicant must

  1. submit an application with the appropriate application fee (online at www.mtsu.edu/graduate/apply.php). Once this initial application has been accepted, the applicant will receive directions on how to enter the graduate portal to be able to submit other materials.
  2. submit three letters of recommendation from professors or professionals that address the applicant's potential to successfully complete an M.S. program in Horse Science;
  3. submit official scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Successful applicants typically have GRE Verbal and Quantitative scores exceeding 146 and 140 respectively, with a total combined score that exceeds 286, and a GRE Analytical Writing Score of 4.0 or higher;
  4. submit official transcripts of previous college work reflecting a 3.00 GPA from a minimum of 12 credit hours of upper-division, undergraduate animal science and/or equine science courses or equivalent industry experience as approved by the Horse Science Graduate Committee;
  5. submit a letter of intent that addresses the following:
    1. In 500 words or less, applicant should describe his/her horse experience to date (which may include but is not limited to college coursework, club/team involvement, breed/discipline groups, etc.) as well as other experiences which may have impacted the decision to pursue this degree; and
    2. In 500 words or less, applicant should describe future plans and goals as they relate to obtaining an M.S. in Horse Science degree;
  6. after application review, participate in an invited interview with the Horse Science Graduate Committee at the applicant's expense before final acceptance into the program.

Degree Requirements

The Master of Science in Horse Science with a concentration in Equine Education requires completion of 36-39 semester hours (thesis option) and 36 semester hours (non-thesis option).

Candidate must

  1. successfully complete a written comprehensive examination (may be taken no more than twice) during the semester in which the candidate intends to graduate;
  2. successfully complete and defend a thesis or equine experiential learning project; students have the option to conduct and complete a traditional research-based thesis project or to select a more contemporary non-thesis option.

All students in the graduate program will be expected to complete a minimum of two consecutive semesters of full-time study in residence at MTSU.

Curriculum: Horse Science, Equine Education

The Equine Education concentration offers a skill set needed to teach and provide instruction at a postsecondary equine program or leadership within the Cooperative Extension Service. Students in the Equine Education concentration have the option to conduct and complete a traditional, research-based thesis project or to select a more contemporary non-thesis option.

The following illustrates the minimum coursework requirements.

Thesis Option (36-39 hours)

Core Courses (15 hours)

 

  • ANSC 5420 - Animal Breeding and Genetics

    3credit hours

    Basic principles of genetics, heredity, crossbreeding, inbreeding, and molecular genetics. Animal breeding topics include quantitative traits, prediction of breeding value, methods of selection, and genetic evaluations including genomic-enhanced selection. Offered fall only.

  • AGRI 6000 - Research Methods in Agricultural Science

    3credit hours

    A review of current scientific methods related to experiments in agriculture. Topics include research ethics, welfare of research subjects, literature resources, critical review of scientific literature, experimental design, scientific writing, interpreting data, and data presentation.

  • AGRI 6100 - Graduate Seminar in Agriculture

    1credit hours

    Seminar presentations target current issues and research advances in agricultural science and production. Presenters include faculty, graduate students, and outside speakers. Active participation in topic discussions emphasized. May be repeated. S/U grading.

  • HORS 6170 - Issues in the Equine Industry

    2credit hours

    In-depth look at relevant events affecting the equine industry. Interaction with industry leaders provides a unique window to examine the issues affecting the horse industry. Oral and written reports on specific problems presented. Topics will vary depending upon the current issues important to the equine industry.

  • HORS 6440 - Advanced Equine Nutrition

    3credit hours

    A class in organic chemistry or biochemistry recommended. A biochemical approach to understanding the nutritional requirements for horses at various life stages, including maintenance, growth, reproduction, performance, age, and clinical support. Feeding management related to nutrient digestion, absorption, and metabolism. Current equine nutrition research and its applications to practical equine management emphasized.

  • STAT 6020 - Applied Statistical Methods

    3credit hours

    Prerequisites: MATH 1530, MATH 2050, or STAT 3150 or permission of instructor. Contemporary and medical research methodology for biostatistics. Descriptive and inferential statistics including parametric and nonparametric hypothesis testing methods, sample size, statistical significance and power, survival curve analysis, relative risk, odds ratios, chi square modeling, and analysis of variance. Data will be analyzed using statistical software.

Required Courses (9 hours)

  • HORS 6250 - Coaching and Teaching for Equine Competition

    3credit hours

    Teaching and coaching successful teams for college or youth equestrian and judging competitions. Utilizes current philosophies of teaching and coaching based on fundamental psychology of personalities and learning. Practice and assisting with teaching and coaching of youth and college teams will be required.

  • LSM 6500 - Legal Issues and Risk Management in Sport and Leisure Services

    3credit hours

    Understanding the legal basis for management actions, concepts of legal liability including torts, contracts, and constitutional law as applied to sport and leisure services organizations. Emphasis on the ability to plan, develop, and implement risk management programs.

Thesis (3-6 hours)

  • AGRI 6640 - Thesis Research  1 to 6 credit hours  
    (3 credit hours required)(3 credit hours required)  dotslash:(3 credit hours required) title:(3 credit hours required) 
    (3 credit hours required) 

    AGRI 6640 - Thesis Research

    1 to 6credit hours

    Prerequisite: Completion of 24 hours of graduate-level course work. The completion of selected research problem, review of pertinent literature, collection and analysis of data, and preparation of the thesis. S/U grading.

Electives (9 hours)

In consultation with their committees, students must select a minimum 9 hours from graduate-level courses within the College of Basic and Applied Sciences, the College of Behavioral and Health Sciences, and/or the Jones College of Business. Of these, a minimum of 6 hours must be taken from courses with similar content rubrics (i.e., MKT, MGMT, LSM, ABAS, etc.). Students are limited to 3 hours at the 5000 level.

Non-thesis Option (36 hours)

Core Courses (15 hours)

  • ANSC 5420 - Animal Breeding and Genetics

    3credit hours

    Basic principles of genetics, heredity, crossbreeding, inbreeding, and molecular genetics. Animal breeding topics include quantitative traits, prediction of breeding value, methods of selection, and genetic evaluations including genomic-enhanced selection. Offered fall only.

  • AGRI 6000 - Research Methods in Agricultural Science

    3credit hours

    A review of current scientific methods related to experiments in agriculture. Topics include research ethics, welfare of research subjects, literature resources, critical review of scientific literature, experimental design, scientific writing, interpreting data, and data presentation.

  • AGRI 6100 - Graduate Seminar in Agriculture

    1credit hours

    Seminar presentations target current issues and research advances in agricultural science and production. Presenters include faculty, graduate students, and outside speakers. Active participation in topic discussions emphasized. May be repeated. S/U grading.

  • HORS 6170 - Issues in the Equine Industry

    2credit hours

    In-depth look at relevant events affecting the equine industry. Interaction with industry leaders provides a unique window to examine the issues affecting the horse industry. Oral and written reports on specific problems presented. Topics will vary depending upon the current issues important to the equine industry.

  • HORS 6440 - Advanced Equine Nutrition

    3credit hours

    A class in organic chemistry or biochemistry recommended. A biochemical approach to understanding the nutritional requirements for horses at various life stages, including maintenance, growth, reproduction, performance, age, and clinical support. Feeding management related to nutrient digestion, absorption, and metabolism. Current equine nutrition research and its applications to practical equine management emphasized.

  • STAT 6020 - Applied Statistical Methods

    3credit hours

    Prerequisites: MATH 1530, MATH 2050, or STAT 3150 or permission of instructor. Contemporary and medical research methodology for biostatistics. Descriptive and inferential statistics including parametric and nonparametric hypothesis testing methods, sample size, statistical significance and power, survival curve analysis, relative risk, odds ratios, chi square modeling, and analysis of variance. Data will be analyzed using statistical software.

Required Courses (9 hours)

  • HORS 6250 - Coaching and Teaching for Equine Competition

    3credit hours

    Teaching and coaching successful teams for college or youth equestrian and judging competitions. Utilizes current philosophies of teaching and coaching based on fundamental psychology of personalities and learning. Practice and assisting with teaching and coaching of youth and college teams will be required.

  • LSM 6500 - Legal Issues and Risk Management in Sport and Leisure Services

    3credit hours

    Understanding the legal basis for management actions, concepts of legal liability including torts, contracts, and constitutional law as applied to sport and leisure services organizations. Emphasis on the ability to plan, develop, and implement risk management programs.

Experiential Learning Project (3 hours)

  • HORS 6540 - Equine Experiential Learning  1 to 6 credit hours  
    (3 credit hours required)(3 credit hours required)  dotslash:(3 credit hours required) title:(3 credit hours required) 
    (3 credit hours required) 

    HORS 6540 - Equine Experiential Learning

    1 to 6credit hours

    Prerequisite: Completion of 24 semester hours at the master's level. Practical experience gained while working with an equine-related program emphasizing hands-on involvement. Students will develop, implement, and conclude an applied project in consultation with a faculty member and approved by their committee. S/U grading.

Electives (9 hours)

In consultation with their committees, students must select a minimum 9 hours from graduate-level courses within the College of Basic and Applied Sciences, the College of Behavioral and Health Sciences, and/or the Jones College of Business. Of these, a minimum of 6 hours must be taken from courses with similar content rubrics (i.e., MKT, MGMT, LSM, ABAS, etc.). Students are limited to 3 hours at the 5000 level.

Equine Physiology

Horse Science, Equine Physiology Concentration, M.S.

Alyssa Logan, Program Coordinator
615-494-8849
Alyssa.Logan@mtsu.edu

The  School of Agriculture offers the Master of Science (M.S.) in Horse Science, designed to prepare graduates for the multifaceted equine industry. Students may choose one of three concentrations: Equine Education, Equine Physiology, or Industry Management.

Please see undergraduate catalog for information regarding undergraduate programs.

Admission Requirements

Admissions are based on a comprehensive assessment of a candidate's qualifications including Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores, undergraduate and graduate grade point average, letter of intent, letters of recommendation, and a personal interview.

Applicants who do not meet admission requirements but whose overall record indicates the potential for success may be considered for non-degree admission. Students must meet all conditions established by the Horse Science Graduate Committee in order to gain full acceptance to the program.

Application Procedures

All application materials are to be submitted to the College of Graduate Studies.

The application deadline is April 15 for those wishing to be considered for graduate assistantships and admission in the Summer or Fall. October 1 is the application deadline for admission in the Spring. Applications will be accepted after these dates, but admission consideration is not guaranteed.

Applicant must

  1. submit an application with the appropriate application fee (online at www.mtsu.edu/graduate/apply.php). Once this initial application has been accepted, the applicant will receive directions on how to enter the graduate portal to be able to submit other materials.
  2. submit three letters of recommendation from professors or professionals that address the applicant's potential to successfully complete an M.S. program in Horse Science;
  3. submit official scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Successful applicants typically have GRE Verbal and Quantitative scores exceeding 146 and 140 respectively, with a total combined score that exceeds 286, and a GRE Analytical Writing Score of 4.0 or higher;
  4. submit official transcripts of previous college work reflecting a 3.00 GPA from a minimum of 12 credit hours of upper-division, undergraduate animal science and/or equine science courses or equivalent industry experience as approved by the Horse Science Graduate Committee;
  5. submit a letter of intent that addresses the following:
    1. In 500 words or less, applicant should describe his/her horse experience to date (which may include but is not limited to college coursework, club/team involvement, breed/discipline groups, etc.) as well as other experiences which may have impacted the decision to pursue this degree; and
    2. In 500 words or less, applicant should describe future plans and goals as they relate to obtaining an M.S. in Horse Science degree;
  6. after application review, participate in an invited interview with the Horse Science Graduate Committee at the applicant's expense before final acceptance into the program.

Degree Requirements

The Master of Science in Horse Science with a concentration in Equine Physiology requires completion of a minimum of 36 semester hours.

Candidate must

  1. successfully complete a written comprehensive examination (may be taken no more than twice) during the semester in which the candidate intends to graduate;
  2. successfully complete and defend a thesis project.

All students in the graduate program will be expected to complete a minimum of two consecutive semesters of full-time study in residence at MTSU.

Curriculum: Horse Science, Equine Physiology

The Equine Physiology concentration emphasizes an interdisciplinary, science-based curriculum structured to build knowledge of scientific principles and apply them to a thesis research project related to equine science.

The following illustrates the minimum 36-hour coursework requirements.

Thesis Option (36 hours)

Core Courses (15 hours)

 

  • ANSC 5420 - Animal Breeding and Genetics

    3credit hours

    Basic principles of genetics, heredity, crossbreeding, inbreeding, and molecular genetics. Animal breeding topics include quantitative traits, prediction of breeding value, methods of selection, and genetic evaluations including genomic-enhanced selection. Offered fall only.

  • AGRI 6000 - Research Methods in Agricultural Science

    3credit hours

    A review of current scientific methods related to experiments in agriculture. Topics include research ethics, welfare of research subjects, literature resources, critical review of scientific literature, experimental design, scientific writing, interpreting data, and data presentation.

  • AGRI 6100 - Graduate Seminar in Agriculture

    1credit hours

    Seminar presentations target current issues and research advances in agricultural science and production. Presenters include faculty, graduate students, and outside speakers. Active participation in topic discussions emphasized. May be repeated. S/U grading.

  • HORS 6170 - Issues in the Equine Industry

    2credit hours

    In-depth look at relevant events affecting the equine industry. Interaction with industry leaders provides a unique window to examine the issues affecting the horse industry. Oral and written reports on specific problems presented. Topics will vary depending upon the current issues important to the equine industry.

  • HORS 6440 - Advanced Equine Nutrition

    3credit hours

    A class in organic chemistry or biochemistry recommended. A biochemical approach to understanding the nutritional requirements for horses at various life stages, including maintenance, growth, reproduction, performance, age, and clinical support. Feeding management related to nutrient digestion, absorption, and metabolism. Current equine nutrition research and its applications to practical equine management emphasized.

  • STAT 6020 - Applied Statistical Methods

    3credit hours

    Prerequisites: MATH 1530, MATH 2050, or STAT 3150 or permission of instructor. Contemporary and medical research methodology for biostatistics. Descriptive and inferential statistics including parametric and nonparametric hypothesis testing methods, sample size, statistical significance and power, survival curve analysis, relative risk, odds ratios, chi square modeling, and analysis of variance. Data will be analyzed using statistical software.

Required Courses (21 hours)

  • HORS 6090 - Equine Reproductive Physiology  3 credit hours  
    OROR  dotslash:OR title:OR 
    OR 

    HORS 6090 - Equine Reproductive Physiology

    3credit hours

    Prerequisite: ANSC 4510 or HORS 4090 or permission of instructor. Principles of equine reproductive physiology related to management of the stallion, mare, and foal. Topics covered include reproductive anatomy, endocrine regulation of reproduction, molecular mechanisms of hormone action, manipulation of reproductive function, and understanding and implementation of assisted reproductive technology in breeding farm management. Two hours lecture and two-hour laboratory.

  • HORS 6550 - Advanced Equine Exercise Physiology

    3credit hours

    Prerequisite: HORS 4550. Review and evaluation of current research in equine exercise science; physiologic, metabolic, and mental adaptation to athletic training; bioenergetics of muscle metabolism; nutrition of performance horses; management and training approaches to improve performance and delay fatigue in equine athletes.

  • AGRI 6640 - Thesis Research  1 to 6 credit hours  
    Misc(3 credit hours minimum; 6 credit hours maximum)  dotslash:(3 credit hours minimum; 6 credit hours maximum) title:Misc 
    (3 credit hours minimum; 6 credit hours maximum) 

    AGRI 6640 - Thesis Research

    1 to 6credit hours

    Prerequisite: Completion of 24 hours of graduate-level course work. The completion of selected research problem, review of pertinent literature, collection and analysis of data, and preparation of the thesis. S/U grading.

  • Electives to be selected in consultation with the advisor (6 credit hours)
  • BIOL 5170 - Endocrinology  3 credit hours  

    BIOL 5170 - Endocrinology

    3credit hours

    Prerequisites: BIOL 3250/3251, 4110/4111, or 2020/2021; CHEM 2030/2031 or 3010/3011. Structure, function, and integrative mechanisms of vertebrate endocrine organs, with additional attention to invertebrate hormones. Three lectures.

  • CHEM 6500 - Biochemistry I  3 credit hours  

    CHEM 6500 - Biochemistry I

    3credit hours

    Chemical properties of biological molecules such as proteins, lipids, nucleotides, and carbohydrates. Chemical basis of enzyme catalysis. Structure of biological membranes. Offered every fall.

    NOTE: Graduate standing is the prerequisite for graduate courses in chemistry. The 5000-level courses also have the same prerequisites as listed for the corresponding 4000-level courses in the undergraduate catalog.

  • STAT 6602 - Problems in Statistics-Regression Analysis  3 credit hours  
    OROR  dotslash:OR title:OR 
    OR 

    STAT 6602 - Problems in Statistics-Regression Analysis

    3credit hours

    Prerequisite: Mathematical maturity, preparation in the area and (normally) nine semester hours of graduate study. Problems course dealing with theory, methods, and applications.

  • STAT 6603 - Problems in Statistics-Nonparametric Statistics  3 credit hours  
    OROR  dotslash:OR title:OR 
    OR 

    STAT 6603 - Problems in Statistics-Nonparametric Statistics

    3credit hours

    Prerequisite: Mathematical maturity, preparation in the area and (normally) nine semester hours of graduate study. Problems course dealing with theory, methods, and applications.

  • STAT 6604 - Problems in Statistics-Experimental Design  3 credit hours  
    OROR  dotslash:OR title:OR 
    OR 

    STAT 6604 - Problems in Statistics-Experimental Design

    3credit hours

    Prerequisite: Mathematical maturity, preparation in the area and (normally) nine semester hours of graduate study. Problems course dealing with theory, methods, and applications.

  • STAT 6605 - Problems in Statistics-SAS Programming  1 to 9 credit hours  
    (3 credit hours)(3 credit hours)  dotslash:(3 credit hours) title:(3 credit hours) 
    (3 credit hours) 

    STAT 6605 - Problems in Statistics-SAS Programming

    1 to 9credit hours

    Prerequisite: Mathematical maturity, preparation in the area and (normally) nine semester hours of graduate study. Problems course dealing with theory, methods, and applications.

Industry Management

Horse Science, Industry Management Concentration, M.S.

Alyssa Logan, Program Coordinator
615-494-8849
Alyssa.Logan@mtsu.edu

The School of Agriculture offers the Master of Science (M.S.) in Horse Science, designed to prepare graduates for the multifaceted equine industry. Students may choose one of three concentrations: Equine Education, Equine Physiology, or Industry Management.

Please see undergraduate catalog for information regarding undergraduate programs.

Admission Requirements

Admissions are based on a comprehensive assessment of a candidate's qualifications including Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores, undergraduate and graduate grade point average, letter of intent, letters of recommendation, and a personal interview.

Applicants who do not meet admission requirements but whose overall record indicates the potential for success may be considered for non-degree admission. Students must meet all conditions established by the Horse Science Graduate Committee in order to gain full acceptance to the program.

Application Procedures

All application materials are to be submitted to the College of Graduate Studies.

The application deadline is April 15 for those wishing to be considered for graduate assistantships and admission in the Summer or Fall. October 1 is the application deadline for admission in the Spring. Applications will be accepted after these dates, but admission consideration is not guaranteed.

Applicant must

  1. submit an application with the appropriate application fee (online at www.mtsu.edu/graduate/apply.php). Once this initial application has been accepted, the applicant will receive directions on how to enter the graduate portal to be able to submit other materials.
  2. submit three letters of recommendation from professors or professionals that address the applicant's potential to successfully complete an M.S. program in Horse Science;
  3. submit official scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Successful applicants typically have GRE Verbal and Quantitative scores exceeding 146 and 140 respectively, with a total combined score that exceeds 286, and a GRE Analytical Writing Score of 4.0 or higher;
  4. submit official transcripts of previous college work reflecting a 3.00 GPA from a minimum of 12 credit hours of upper-division, undergraduate animal science and/or equine science courses or equivalent industry experience as approved by the Horse Science Graduate Committee;
  5. submit a letter of intent that addresses the following:
    1. In 500 words or less, applicant should describe his/her horse experience to date (which may include but is not limited to college coursework, club/team involvement, breed/discipline groups, etc.) as well as other experiences which may have impacted the decision to pursue this degree; and
    2. In 500 words or less, applicant should describe future plans and goals as they relate to obtaining an M.S. in Horse Science degree;
  6. after application review, participate in an invited interview with the Horse Science Graduate Committee at the applicant's expense before final acceptance into the program.

Degree Requirements

The Master of Science in Horse Science with a concentration in Industry Management requires completion of 36-39 semester hours (thesis option) or 36 semester hours (non-thesis option).

Candidate must

  1. successfully complete a written comprehensive examination (may be taken no more than twice) during the semester in which the candidate intends to graduate;
  2. successfully complete and defend a thesis project OR equine experiential learning project.

All students in the graduate program will be expected to complete a minimum of two consecutive semesters of full-time study in residence at MTSU.

Curriculum: Horse Science, Industry Management

The curriculum is structured for a specific industry-related career in the Industry Management concentration. Students have the option to conduct and complete a traditional, research-based thesis project or to select a more contemporary non-thesis option.

The following illustrates the minimum coursework requirements.

Thesis Option (36-39 hours)

Core Courses (15 hours)

 

  • ANSC 5420 - Animal Breeding and Genetics

    3credit hours

    Basic principles of genetics, heredity, crossbreeding, inbreeding, and molecular genetics. Animal breeding topics include quantitative traits, prediction of breeding value, methods of selection, and genetic evaluations including genomic-enhanced selection. Offered fall only.

  • AGRI 6000 - Research Methods in Agricultural Science

    3credit hours

    A review of current scientific methods related to experiments in agriculture. Topics include research ethics, welfare of research subjects, literature resources, critical review of scientific literature, experimental design, scientific writing, interpreting data, and data presentation.

  • AGRI 6100 - Graduate Seminar in Agriculture

    1credit hours

    Seminar presentations target current issues and research advances in agricultural science and production. Presenters include faculty, graduate students, and outside speakers. Active participation in topic discussions emphasized. May be repeated. S/U grading.

  • HORS 6170 - Issues in the Equine Industry

    2credit hours

    In-depth look at relevant events affecting the equine industry. Interaction with industry leaders provides a unique window to examine the issues affecting the horse industry. Oral and written reports on specific problems presented. Topics will vary depending upon the current issues important to the equine industry.

  • HORS 6440 - Advanced Equine Nutrition

    3credit hours

    A class in organic chemistry or biochemistry recommended. A biochemical approach to understanding the nutritional requirements for horses at various life stages, including maintenance, growth, reproduction, performance, age, and clinical support. Feeding management related to nutrient digestion, absorption, and metabolism. Current equine nutrition research and its applications to practical equine management emphasized.

  • STAT 6020 - Applied Statistical Methods

    3credit hours

    Prerequisites: MATH 1530, MATH 2050, or STAT 3150 or permission of instructor. Contemporary and medical research methodology for biostatistics. Descriptive and inferential statistics including parametric and nonparametric hypothesis testing methods, sample size, statistical significance and power, survival curve analysis, relative risk, odds ratios, chi square modeling, and analysis of variance. Data will be analyzed using statistical software.

Required Courses (9 hours)

  • HORS 6040 - Management of Equine Events and Facilities

    3credit hours

    Prerequisite: 12 hours of upper-division HORS courses. Fundamentals of managing equine and other livestock events and facilities. Emphasis placed on active participation in management of equine events held at MTSU facilities.

Choose two of the following:

  • MGMT 6100 - Strategic Decision Making

    3credit hours

    Prerequisite: MGMT 3610 or MGMT 6000. Managerial theory and practice of solving problems, making decisions, and developing strategies for services and/or products. Emphasis on developing practical responses to decision issues using creativity and innovation in a team environment. (This course is not open to students earning a Master of Business Administration degree.)

  • MGMT 6300 - Not-for-Profit Management and Governance

    3credit hours

    Prerequisite: JCOB student or permission of department. Focuses on the management theories and practices that impact effective management and governance of organizations in the not-for-profit sector. Emphasizes management decision making within the not-for-profit context and will be one of two core courses in the Master's of Science in Management Social Innovation and Not-for-Profit concentration curriculum.

  • MGMT 6740 - Leadership and Motivation

    3credit hours

    Issues in leadership and motivation in business organizations. An examination of the theoretical framework for leadership and motivation processes serves as foundation. Emphasis on practical issues and applications of leadership development and motivation.

  • MKT 6810 - Promotional Strategy

    3credit hours

    Promotional goals, plans, and concepts in marketing; the role of marketing communication in society; the organization, budgeting, and scheduling of promotion; innovation and the adoption process; managerial decision making in the promotional mix.

  • MKT 6870 - Digital Marketing Analytics

    3credit hours

    Covers what, why, and how of major current approaches, including search engine optimization, search and display ads, mobile marketing, social media, and online listening/monitoring. Covers the key performance indicators and basic techniques to evaluate the effectiveness of online marketing campaigns, including Google Analytics, regression analysis, logistic regression, and online experiments. Provides a quantitative and qualitative approach to understanding and harnessing tools in digital marketing analytics to meet business objectives.

  • MKT 6880 - Sport and Entertainment Marketing

    3credit hours

    Prerequisite: MKT 6000 or MKT 6800. Issues pertaining to marketing in the sport and entertainment industries. Focuses on role of sponsorship in a firm's marketing strategy.

Thesis (3-6 hours)

  • AGRI 6640 - Thesis Research  1 to 6 credit hours  
    (3 credit hours required)(3 credit hours required)  dotslash:(3 credit hours required) title:(3 credit hours required) 
    (3 credit hours required) 

    AGRI 6640 - Thesis Research

    1 to 6credit hours

    Prerequisite: Completion of 24 hours of graduate-level course work. The completion of selected research problem, review of pertinent literature, collection and analysis of data, and preparation of the thesis. S/U grading.

Electives (9 hours)

In consultation with their committees, students must select a minimum of 9 hours from graduate-level courses in the College of Basic and Applied Sciences, the College of Education, and/or the Jones College of Business. Of these, a minimum of 6 hours must be taken from courses with similar content rubrics (i.e., MKT, MGMT, LSM, ABAS, etc.). Students may take a maximum of 12 hours of electives selected from the MGMT, MKT, and or MC rubrics. Students are limited to 6 hours at the 5000 level.

Non-thesis Option (36 hours)

Core Courses (15 hours)

  • ANSC 5420 - Animal Breeding and Genetics

    3credit hours

    Basic principles of genetics, heredity, crossbreeding, inbreeding, and molecular genetics. Animal breeding topics include quantitative traits, prediction of breeding value, methods of selection, and genetic evaluations including genomic-enhanced selection. Offered fall only.

  • AGRI 6000 - Research Methods in Agricultural Science

    3credit hours

    A review of current scientific methods related to experiments in agriculture. Topics include research ethics, welfare of research subjects, literature resources, critical review of scientific literature, experimental design, scientific writing, interpreting data, and data presentation.

  • AGRI 6100 - Graduate Seminar in Agriculture

    1credit hours

    Seminar presentations target current issues and research advances in agricultural science and production. Presenters include faculty, graduate students, and outside speakers. Active participation in topic discussions emphasized. May be repeated. S/U grading.

  • HORS 6170 - Issues in the Equine Industry

    2credit hours

    In-depth look at relevant events affecting the equine industry. Interaction with industry leaders provides a unique window to examine the issues affecting the horse industry. Oral and written reports on specific problems presented. Topics will vary depending upon the current issues important to the equine industry.

  • HORS 6440 - Advanced Equine Nutrition

    3credit hours

    A class in organic chemistry or biochemistry recommended. A biochemical approach to understanding the nutritional requirements for horses at various life stages, including maintenance, growth, reproduction, performance, age, and clinical support. Feeding management related to nutrient digestion, absorption, and metabolism. Current equine nutrition research and its applications to practical equine management emphasized.

  • STAT 6020 - Applied Statistical Methods

    3credit hours

    Prerequisites: MATH 1530, MATH 2050, or STAT 3150 or permission of instructor. Contemporary and medical research methodology for biostatistics. Descriptive and inferential statistics including parametric and nonparametric hypothesis testing methods, sample size, statistical significance and power, survival curve analysis, relative risk, odds ratios, chi square modeling, and analysis of variance. Data will be analyzed using statistical software.

Required Courses (9 hours)

  • HORS 6040 - Management of Equine Events and Facilities

    3credit hours

    Prerequisite: 12 hours of upper-division HORS courses. Fundamentals of managing equine and other livestock events and facilities. Emphasis placed on active participation in management of equine events held at MTSU facilities.

Choose two of the following:

  • MGMT 6100 - Strategic Decision Making

    3credit hours

    Prerequisite: MGMT 3610 or MGMT 6000. Managerial theory and practice of solving problems, making decisions, and developing strategies for services and/or products. Emphasis on developing practical responses to decision issues using creativity and innovation in a team environment. (This course is not open to students earning a Master of Business Administration degree.)

  • MGMT 6300 - Not-for-Profit Management and Governance

    3credit hours

    Prerequisite: JCOB student or permission of department. Focuses on the management theories and practices that impact effective management and governance of organizations in the not-for-profit sector. Emphasizes management decision making within the not-for-profit context and will be one of two core courses in the Master's of Science in Management Social Innovation and Not-for-Profit concentration curriculum.

  • MGMT 6740 - Leadership and Motivation

    3credit hours

    Issues in leadership and motivation in business organizations. An examination of the theoretical framework for leadership and motivation processes serves as foundation. Emphasis on practical issues and applications of leadership development and motivation.

  • MKT 6810 - Promotional Strategy

    3credit hours

    Promotional goals, plans, and concepts in marketing; the role of marketing communication in society; the organization, budgeting, and scheduling of promotion; innovation and the adoption process; managerial decision making in the promotional mix.

  • MKT 6870 - Digital Marketing Analytics

    3credit hours

    Covers what, why, and how of major current approaches, including search engine optimization, search and display ads, mobile marketing, social media, and online listening/monitoring. Covers the key performance indicators and basic techniques to evaluate the effectiveness of online marketing campaigns, including Google Analytics, regression analysis, logistic regression, and online experiments. Provides a quantitative and qualitative approach to understanding and harnessing tools in digital marketing analytics to meet business objectives.

  • MKT 6880 - Sport and Entertainment Marketing

    3credit hours

    Prerequisite: MKT 6000 or MKT 6800. Issues pertaining to marketing in the sport and entertainment industries. Focuses on role of sponsorship in a firm's marketing strategy.

Experiential Learning Project (3 hours)

  • HORS 6540 - Equine Experiential Learning  1 to 6 credit hours  
    (3 credit hours required)(3 credit hours required)  dotslash:(3 credit hours required) title:(3 credit hours required) 
    (3 credit hours required) 

    HORS 6540 - Equine Experiential Learning

    1 to 6credit hours

    Prerequisite: Completion of 24 semester hours at the master's level. Practical experience gained while working with an equine-related program emphasizing hands-on involvement. Students will develop, implement, and conclude an applied project in consultation with a faculty member and approved by their committee. S/U grading.

Electives (9 hours)

In consultation with their committees, students must select a minimum of 9 hours from graduate-level courses in the College of Basic and Applied Sciences, the College of Education, and/or the Jones College of Business. Of these, a minimum of 6 hours must be taken from courses with similar content rubrics (i.e., MKT, MGMT, LSM, ABAS, etc.). Students may take a maximum of 12 hours of electives selected from the MGMT, MKT, and or MC rubrics. Students are limited to 6 hours at the 5000 level.

 

Our adjunct faculty bring outstanding professional experience to our programs. Many are industry leaders with decorated careers and honors. Importantly, they are innovative educators who offer hands-on learning to our students to prepare them to enter and thrive in a dynamic, and oftentimes emerging, industry and professional world. They inspire, instruct, and challenge our students toward academic and professional success.

Applicant Selection Procedure

The selection procedure is a two-phase process and normally begins at the April 15 and Oct. 1 deadlines for Fall and Spring admission.

  1. The first phase is objective. The Horse Science Graduate Selection Committee evaluates academic transcripts for overall GPA and completion of at least 12 credits of upper-division, horse science and/or animal science undergraduate courses with a minimum GPA of 3.00. Each applicant’s GRE or MAT scores are evaluated, and letters of recommendation are reviewed. The first phase will not begin until applicants have submitted all required portions of their application to the College of Graduate Studies. Admission is not guaranteed by meeting minimal admission requirements. Students are selected from a pool of qualified applicants.
  2. The second phase involves an evaluation of non-academic attributes of individuals selected only after completion of the first phase. This includes a personal interview with the Horse Science Graduate Selection Committee, by invitation for qualified applicants only. Travel to and from the personal interview is done at the applicant’s expense. Not all applicants are invited for the personal interview. Characteristics evaluated during the personal interview include, but are not limited to, motivation, maturity, leadership potential, personal qualities, experience with horses, knowledge of the horse industry, professionalism, long-term goals, and potential fit in our Horse Science M.S. program.

Degree Plan forms

Facilities

Financial Assistance

A limited number of graduate teaching assistantships are available for M.S. in Horse Science students. Stipends for Graduate Teaching Assistants and Graduate Research Assistants are determined by the College of Graduate Studies based on a review of market factors and the availability of funds. Stipends awarded through external funds such as grants may vary in amount from other assistantships awarded by the university.

All applicants to the M.S. in Horse Science program meeting the minimum GPA qualification of 3.00 will be considered for Graduate Teaching Assistantships. Graduate Teaching Assistant positions are very limited and are awarded on a competitive basis, at either a full or half level. These assistantships include partial or full payment of tuition and some (but not all) fees, and a monthly stipend. GTA assignments are provided for both Fall and Spring semesters. Once awarded a GTA position, it is renewable each semester unless a GTA fails to meet expectations.

The Office of Financial Aid provides financial assistance to qualified students. Results from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) are required before eligibility can be determined for financial aid programs.

Online or Hybrid Programs at a Glance

This program is available .


For More Information or Explore Your Options​

Contact your department / program coordinator or advisor for more details about the program OR work one-on-one with your advisor to explore your options.


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The Online Advantage​

With over 25 years of experience in online teaching and learning, MTSU Online offers students access to innovative, high-quality programs. Designed with students in mind, our courses allow maximum flexibility for those unable to participate in person. ​

Resources and services for online students are available from MTSU Online or contact us at distance@mtsu.edu.

Contact Information

Alyssa Logan
Alyssa.Logan@mtsu.edu
615-494-8849

Who is My Advisor?

Alyssa Logan
Alyssa.Logan@mtsu.edu
615-494-8849

Mailing Address

MTSU Horse Science Program
Middle Tennessee State University
314 West Thompson Lane
Murfreesboro, TN 37129

College of Graduate Studies
Middle Tennessee State University
MTSU Box 42
1301 East Main Street
Murfreesboro, TN 3713

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