Bachelor of Applied Science - Agribusiness
The Bachelor of Applied Science (BASc) in Agribusiness at Olds...
Certificate in Equine Care and Management
Olds, Alberta
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The Certificate in Equine Care and Management at Olds College of Agriculture & Technology, located in Olds, Alberta, is a comprehensive, hands-on program designed for individuals passionate about horses and seeking a career in the equine industry. This program focuses on developing the practical skills and theoretical knowledge needed to manage, train, and care for horses in various professional settings. Students learn about equine behavior, health, nutrition, anatomy, and facility management, gaining direct experience working with horses daily. With access to Olds College’s world-class equine facilities and experienced instructors, learners develop a deep understanding of horse welfare, training techniques, and industry standards, preparing them for rewarding roles in the equine and agricultural sectors.
Curriculum: The Certificate in Equine Care and Management features a balanced blend of classroom instruction and experiential learning. The curriculum covers core subjects such as equine anatomy and physiology, health and disease prevention, feeding and nutrition, stable management, and equine behavior. Students also learn horse handling, grooming, and exercise management, with an emphasis on safe and ethical practices. Advanced topics may include equine business management, breeding principles, and equine event coordination. The program’s structure promotes active engagement through riding demonstrations, stable duties, and supervised care routines. By integrating theory with daily hands-on experience, the curriculum ensures that graduates are well-prepared to manage equine operations or pursue advanced studies in the equine field.
Research Focus: While primarily focused on applied learning, the Equine Care and Management Certificate at Olds College also introduces students to equine research and data-driven practices that enhance horse health, performance, and welfare. Through the college’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in animal management, students explore evidence-based techniques in areas such as equine nutrition optimization, behavioral studies, and stable environment improvement. The college’s Smart Agriculture Ecosystem and collaborative projects within the animal science department expose students to modern equine management technologies, ensuring they understand the evolving role of research in advancing equine care and production systems.
Industry Engagement: Industry collaboration is a key element of this program. Olds College maintains strong partnerships with equine centers, veterinary clinics, breeders, riding schools, and agricultural organizations across Canada. Students benefit from guest lectures by equine professionals, site visits, and potential internship opportunities that provide valuable industry exposure. These connections allow learners to network with employers and gain insights into current trends and career pathways within the equine sector. The program’s alignment with industry standards ensures that graduates possess the competencies required by employers and are prepared to contribute immediately upon entering the workforce.
Global Perspective: The Certificate in Equine Care and Management at Olds College encourages students to develop an understanding of the global equine industry, which spans sport, leisure, breeding, and agricultural sectors worldwide. The program highlights international practices in equine health, welfare, and training, giving students perspective on how environmental, economic, and technological factors influence the management of horses globally. Graduates are equipped to work in diverse cultural and geographic settings, whether in Canada’s growing equine industry or abroad. This global outlook, combined with practical expertise and applied learning, empowers students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected equine world.
Location
Olds, Alberta
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
CAD 16500
Undergraduate Diploma Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate diploma programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 53% or above in their Grade 12 from a recognized institution.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 55 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Olds College of Agriculture & Technology is dedicated to recognizing and rewarding the hard work, academic excellence, and community involvement of its international students. To make education more accessible and to encourage global talent, the college offers a variety of scholarships, bursaries, and awards designed to support international learners financially throughout their studies.
Olds College International Student Entrance Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to newly admitted international students who have demonstrated strong academic performance prior to joining Olds College. Applicants are evaluated based on their academic transcripts, leadership experience, and extracurricular achievements. The award not only helps reduce tuition costs but also motivates students to continue striving for excellence throughout their studies.
Continuing International Student Scholarship: For students who have successfully completed at least one semester at Olds College, the Continuing International Student Scholarship recognizes consistent academic achievement and active participation in campus life. This award encourages students to maintain high academic standards and remain engaged with the college community.
Financial Need Bursaries: To assist international students facing financial challenges, Olds College provides need-based bursaries that help cover tuition, books, and living expenses. Applicants are required to provide a short personal statement outlining their financial situation, academic goals, and how the bursary will support their success. These bursaries ensure that financial hardship does not limit access to quality education.
Graduates of the Certificate in Equine Care and Management program at Olds College of Agriculture & Technology in Olds, Alberta, are well-equipped to pursue rewarding and dynamic careers in the equine and agricultural industries. The program’s comprehensive training in horse care, stable management, and equine health provides students with the technical expertise and professional skills needed to work confidently in diverse equine environments.
Equine Care Technician: Responsible for the daily health and welfare of horses, including feeding, grooming, exercise routines, and monitoring behavior to ensure optimal well-being.
Stable or Barn Manager: Oversee all aspects of stable operations such as staff supervision, horse health monitoring, feed management, and coordination of training or riding schedules.
Horse Trainer Assistant: Work alongside professional trainers to condition, exercise, and prepare horses for competitions, riding programs, or performance events.
Equine Facility Assistant: Support operations at breeding farms, riding schools, or rehabilitation centers by maintaining facilities, assisting veterinarians, and managing horse logistics.
Equine Nutrition Assistant: Collaborate with nutritionists or veterinarians to develop balanced feeding plans that promote horse health, growth, and performance.
Riding Instructor Assistant: Assist certified instructors in managing riding lessons, ensuring rider safety, and preparing horses for training or educational programs.
Equine Event Coordinator: Help organize horse shows, rodeos, competitions, and community equine events by managing logistics, registration, and horse welfare during events.
Equine Retail or Sales Associate: Work in equine supply stores or with manufacturers of feed, tack, and equipment, using technical knowledge to assist customers and promote products effectively.
Breeding Farm Assistant: Assist with breeding operations, including horse care during gestation and foaling, record keeping, and general reproductive management under supervision.
Animal Welfare or Rescue Technician: Work with equine rescue organizations or animal welfare agencies to rehabilitate neglected or injured horses, supporting rehoming and recovery initiatives.
