Equine Studies Program

The Equine Studies Facility consists of an:

• Indoor 12,000 square foot building that includes an 80 x 100 ft. arena,
• Outdoor 150 x 300 ft. riding arena,
• 55 horse stalls,
• 3 round pens measuring 40, 60, and 150 ft.,
• Turn out arena,
• Mechanical flag,
• Hospital barn with stallion collection area,
• Student tack room,
• Pasture and dry-lots,
• Thousands of miles of horse trails.

AGEQ 009 - Draft Horse Driving I 4.5 LEC, 13.5 LAB, 0.5 UNITS This course offers an opportunity to explore the history of the work horse. Students will learn about draft breeds, the equipment needed for driving draft horses, and the practices required to drive draft horses.

AGEQ 010 - Draft Horse Driving II 4.5 LEC, 13.5 LAB, 0.5 UNITS An introductory course to explore the history of the work horse. Students will learn about draft breeds and the equipment needed for driving draft horses. Progressive skill development from course prerequisite AGEQ 009 to gain proficiency to harness and drive a single or double draft team with assistance. Prerequisite AGEQ 009

AGEQ 011 - Draft Horse Driving III 4.5 LEC, 13.5 LAB, 0.5 UNITS Students will continue studying draft horse driving. The course presents further content in the dynamics of draft, harness and harnessing, principles of driving, and the anatomy and health care of the draft horse. Upon completing this course, students will be more proficient in harnessing practices and in driving a single or double draft team.

AGEQ 015 - Western Horseback Riding for Beginning Riders 4.5-18 LEC, 13.5-54 LAB, 0.5-2 UNITS Western riding techniques and equitation for beginning riders. Participants learn the principles of general horse care, equipment and tack, and horse riding. Students will develop their skills through practical experience and will have “individualized” equitation lessons in a group setting.

AGEQ 102 - Elements of Equine Science 45 LEC, 27 LAB, 3 UNITS CSU, UC This course is a survey of the equine industry, encompassing the evolution and role of the equine species throughout history, breed selection and development, nutrition, disease, preventative health care, reproductive management, basic anatomy and physiology, and equine career options.

AGEQ 103 - Western Equitation I 18 LEC, 54 LAB, 2 UNITS CSU(E),UC Western riding techniques and equitation. Designed to teach horseback riding to students with little or no previous experience, and those who have experience riding, but have not had the opportunity to “take lessons.” Students will develop their skills through practical experience, and will have “individualized” equitation lessons in a group setting.

AGEQ 104 - Horse Conformation and Judging 18 LEC, 1 UNITS CSU Horse Conformation is a survey course, which covers varied elements of horse conformation and judging as it relates to the horse in action. Students will be able to identify and recognize desired horse conformation for various types of equitation and demonstrate an overall knowledge of how the horse moves. Basic horse anatomy and physiology; bone structure, circulatory, and respiratory systems as they relate to the horse in motion.

AGEQ 106 - Western Equitation II 18 LEC, 54 LAB, 2 UNITS CSU Intermediate and advanced western riding techniques and equitation. Use of natural aides for advanced equitation and riding maneuvers. Horse behavior and psychology. Advisory AGEQ 103

AGEQ 107 - Elements of Pack Station and Stable Operations 45 LEC, 27 LAB, 3 UNITS CSU An introductory course into the major business and skill aspects of pack station and horse stable management. Operational theories, practical applications, and specific skills in horse packing and guided horseback rides will be discussed in this course. The program is designed to expose students to current pack station and stable operations theories and their practical application, and to provide student with specific skills in the pack station and stable operations field.

AGEQ 108 - Pack Station and Stable Operations Field Experience I 18 LEC, 54 LAB, 2 UNITS CSU This course allows students to demonstrate practical skills necessary in organizing and implementing an actual pack trip. Practical applications of skills such as how to plan, organize and implement a three-day pack trip. The application of skills learned in course co-requisite AGEQ 107. Co-requisite AGEQ 107

AGEQ 109 - Pack Station and Stable Operations Field Experience II 18 LEC, 54 LAB, 2 UNITS CSU This course introduces students to the practical skills necessary for organizing and implementing a pack trip. It includes the practical applications of skills such as the planning, organization and implementing of a three-day pack trip. The progressive application of skills learned in prerequisite AGEQ 108. Prerequisite AGEQ 108

AGEQ 115 - Elements of Horse Training I 4.5-27 LEC, 13.5-81 LAB, 0.5-3 UNITS CSU Elements of Horse Training I covers elements of horse behavior modification. Participants will be able to understand a variety of techniques to teach the horse to respond and advance in progressive levels from AGEQ115 through AGEQ118, the course levels provides the skills to explain, demonstrate, compare, contrast, differentiate, create and evaluate horse training philosophies, techniques and specific skills.

AGEQ 116 - Elements of Horse Training II 4.5-27 LEC, 13.5-81 LAB, 0.5-3 UNITS CSU This course covers various elements of horse training techniques and concepts. Students will advance in the topic areas and techniques introduced in AGEQ 115, and enhance their understanding and skill development. Students will advance their ability to compare and contrast horse training philosophies, techniques, and specific skills. Advisory AGEQ 115

AGEQ 117 - Elements of Horse Training III 4.5-27 LEC, 13.5-81 LAB, 0.5-3 UNITS CSU This course covers various advanced elements of horse training techniques and concepts. Students will advance in the topic areas and techniques introduced in AGEQ116, and enhance their understanding and skills, including the ability to differentiate and apply horse training philosophies, techniques and specific skills. Advisory AGEQ 116

AGEQ 118 - Elements of Horse Training IV 4.5-27 LEC, 13.5-81 LAB, 0.5-3 UNITS CSU This course covers various elements of horse training techniques and concepts. Students will advance in the topic areas and techniques introduced in AGEQ117, and enhance their understanding and skills, including the ability to differentiate and apply horse training philosophies, techniques and specific skills. Advisory AGEQ 117

AGEQ 123 - Introduction to Farrier Science 18 LEC, 1 UNITS CSU This course covers introductory horseshoeing principles and practices, including basic anatomy and physiology of the horse’s limbs and feet, horseshoeing terminology, and guidelines for assessing a proper horseshoeing job.

AGEQ 124 - Elements of Farrier Science 18 LEC, 1 UNITS CSU This course covers horseshoeing principles and practices, including anatomy and physiology of the horse’s limbs and feet, horseshoeing terminology, and guidelines for assessing a proper horseshoeing job. Specific attention is given to causes, treatment and prevention of common lameness problems. Progression of student learning outcomes from course prerequisite AGEQ 123. Prerequisite AGEQ 123

AGEQ 140 - Introduction to Equine Behavior and Training 27 LEC, 27 LAB, 2 UNITS CSU This course introduces students to the principles involved in handling and training horses with an emphasis on the historical perspectives and technical development of the unique cooperation between horses and humans. Topics include equine behavior patterns and training philosophy, evolution of horsemanship, development of training equipment, alternative equine health care and therapies.

AGEQ 141 - Equine Behavior and Training 27 LEC, 27 LAB, 2 UNITS CSU This course advances student understanding of the principles involved in handling and training horses utilizing behavior modification procedures that emphasize communication through knowledge, skills, and respect for the horse. Course includes equine training behavior patterns on the ground and in the saddle as well as innovative horse training techniques, equine training problems and general solutions.

AGEQ 151 - Introduction to Horse Event Competition and Showing Level 9-18 LEC, 27-54 LAB, 1-2 UNITS CSU Introduction to Horse Event Competition Showing provides an introduction to theories and practices of horse competition and show events such as reining, versatility, horsemanship, showmanship, cow work, equitation, trail, pleasure and halter. Emphasis will be placed on the introduction to the discipline fundamentals, history of the sport, scoring, rule interpretation, and judging. The course will also provide the student the opportunity to study, learn, and practice the basic skills and beginning techniques necessary to participate in horse competition and show.

AGEQ 152 - Introduction to Horse Event Competition and Showing Level II 9-18 LEC, 27-54 LAB, 1-2 UNITS CSU Horse Event Competition Showing develops the theories, skills, and practices of horse competition and show events in reining, ranch versatility, showmanship, cow work, equitation, trail, pleasure and halter. Emphasis will be placed on horse competition and show discipline practices, scoring, and judging. Students will be provided the opportunity to practice the skills and techniques necessary to participate in a horse competition or show. Participants will develop an enhanced understanding and skill development while progressing skills and techniques learned in AGEQ 151. Advisory AGEQ 151

AGEQ 175 - Ranch Skills Short Course 162 LEC, 54 LAB, 10 UNITS CSU This course covers techniques and skills necessary for ranch work using horses. It’s designed to teach horseback riding to students with little or no previous experience, and those who have experience riding but have not had the opportunity to “take lessons.” Students will develop their skills through practical experience, and will have “individualized” equitation lessons in a group setting. Students will be introduced to introductory, intermediate and advanced roping and cattle working techniques that will allow student to participate in working cows, roping, sorting and other ranch related activities. AGEQ 175 Ranch Skills is a short course part of the Equine Studies certification program; Certificate of Specialization in Fundamentals of Ranch Skills. Along with the Certificate of Specialization, students can apply the AGEQ 175 Ranch Skills Short Course as a substitute for the following courses when utilized towards the Equine Studies Associate Degree or Equine Studies Certificate of Achievement: AGEQ 001 (2 units), AGEQ 103 (2 units), AGEQ 210 (2 units), AGEQ 211 (2 units), and AGEQ 212 (2 units) 

AGEQ 204 - Training Young Horses Under Saddle - Fall 9 LEC, 81 LAB, 2 UNITS CSU Basic principles involved in handling and training the young horse. Course includes groundwork, philosophy of colt starting, advancing the green horse, and problem solving. Special emphasis on continuing the fall training of two-year olds started in the spring.

AGEQ 205 - Training Young Horses Under Saddle - Spring 9 LEC, 81 LAB, 2 UNITS CSU Basic principles involved in handling and training the young horse. Course includes groundwork, philosophy of colt starting, advancing the green horse, and problem solving. Special emphasis on starting the two-year old horse in the spring.

AGEQ 206 - Progressive Training of the Horse Under Saddle 18 LEC, 54 LAB, 2 UNITS CSU Handling and training of the horse. Course includes principles and applications of equine behavior modification for training horses under saddle. Special emphasis will be placed on developing lead departures, lead changes, body control, turnarounds, collection, stopping, and working with cattle from horseback. Developing physical skills while horseback through repetition and refinement of practice. Advisory AGEQ 204

AGEQ 207 - Preparing the Horse for Sale and Show 18 LEC, 54 LAB, 2 UNITS CSU Instruction in fitting and showing horses. Students gain experience training, conditioning, grooming, showing and/ or selling horses. Training horses in maneuvers under saddle including cow work, rope work, trail, ranch riding, and reining patterns. Techniques and applications of fitting a horse in preparation for horse sale or show.

AGEQ 208 - Advanced Pack Station and Stable Operations 18 LEC, 108 LAB, 2 UNITS CSU Course demonstrates practical skills necessary in organizing and implementing a pack trip. Practical applications of skills such as the planning, organization and implementing of a three-day pack trip. The advanced application of skills learned in AGEQ 108. Advisory AGEQ 108

AGEQ 210 - Introduction to Ranch Work with Horses 9 LEC, 54 LAB, 2 UNITS CSU Techniques and skills necessary for ranch work using horses. Designed to teach the basic skills for working and handling cattle, ranch roping. Specialized training of horses for ranch work. Selection of equipment and horses.

AGEQ 211 - Applied Ranch Skills with Horses I 9 LEC, 54 LAB, 2 UNITS CSU Application of intermediate roping and cattle working techniques with horses. Allows student to participate horseback working cows, roping, sorting and other ranch related activities.

AGEQ 212 - Applied Ranch Skills with Horses II 18 LEC, 54 LAB, 2 UNITS Application of advanced roping and cattle working techniques with horses. Allows students to participate horseback working cows, roping, sorting and other ranch related activities. The ability to demonstrate advanced ranch techniques and skills. Course prerequisite AGEQ 211. Prerequisite AGEQ 211

AGEQ 214 - Handling and Care of the Foal, Weanling, and Yearling Horse - Fall 9 LEC, 27 LAB, 1 UNITS CSU Course will focus on the management and handling of foals, weanlings, and yearling horses. Emphasizing safe and practical behavior handling techniques as well as current management practices utilized to maintain health and care of the young horse. Special emphasis on care and handling of weanlings and yearlings in the fall.

AGEQ 215 - Handling and Care of the Foal, Weanling, and Yearling Horse - Spring 9 LEC, 27 LAB, 1 UNITS CSU Course will focus on the management and handling of foals, weanlings, and yearling horses. Emphasizing safe and practical behavior handling techniques as well as current management practices to maintain health and care of the young horse. Special emphasis placed on care and handling of newborn foals and weanlings in the spring.

AGEQ 216 - Advanced Handling and Care of the Foal, Weanling, and Yearling Horse - Fall 9 LEC, 27 LAB, 1 UNITS CSU Advanced Handling and Care of the Foal, Weanling, and Yearling Horse-Fall will focus on the advanced management and handling of horses in this unique age group during the fall and early winter months. Management practices include weaning of foals, vaccinating and deworming, nutrition and conditioning of young horses and other practices specific to the Fall and early winter months. Emphasis will be placed on safe and practical handling techniques during the management of the foal, weanling and yearling horse.

AGEQ 217 - Advanced Handling and Care of the Foal, Weanling, and Yearling Horse - Spring 9 LEC, 27 LAB, 1 UNITS CSU Advanced Handling and Care of the Foal, Weanling, and Yearling Horse-Spring will focus on the advanced management and handling of horses in this unique age group during the late winter and spring months. Management practices include foaling mares, neonatal care of foal, early foal handling, vaccinating and deworming, nutrition and growth of young horses and other practices specific to the late winter and spring months. Emphasis will be placed on safe and practical handling techniques during the management of the foal, weanling and yearling horse.

AGEQ 225 - Ranch Horsemanship 4.5-27 LEC, 13.5-81 LAB, 0.5-3 UNITS CSU Ranch Horsemanship is a survey course that covers the techniques and philosophies of training horses for ranch purposes. Participants will be able to identify and recognize training philosophies and various techniques of horse training, and advance from intermediate to advanced stages of horse training and in ranch horsemanship. Prerequisite AGEQ 103, AGEQ 115

AGEQ 226 - Advanced Horsemanship 4.5-27 LEC, 13.5-81 LAB, 0.5-3 UNITS CSU Advanced Horsemanship is a survey course that covers the techniques and philosophies of advanced horse training. Participants will be able to identify and recognize training philosophies and various techniques of horse training, and advance from intermediate to advanced stages of horse training and horsemanship. Prerequisite AGEQ 103, AGEQ 115.

AGEQ 227 - Advanced Ranch Horsemanship 81-648 LEC, 243-1944 LAB, 0.5-3 UNITS CSU Advanced Ranch Horsemanship covers the techniques and philosophies of training horses for ranch purposes. Participants will learn horse training philosophies and techniques related to work with cattle. For advanced levels of horse training and in ranch horsemanship. Prerequisite AGEQ 225

AGEQ 251 - Advanced Horse Competition and Show Level I 9-18 LEC, 27-54 LAB, 1-2 UNITS CSU Advanced Horse Competition and Show Level I develops the skills, theories, and practices of horse competition and show events in multiple disciplines; reining, ranch versatility, showmanship, cow work, equitation, trail, pleasure and halter. Emphasis will be placed on horse competition and show techniques, scoring, rule interpretation, judging, and assisting the course instructor in further developing the rider beyond AGEQ 151 and AGEQ 152. Students will be provided the opportunity to study, learn, and practice the skills and techniques necessary to participate in horse competition and show. Participants will develop an enhanced understanding and skill development while progressing skills and techniques learned in AGEQ 152. Advisory AGEQ 152

AGEQ 252 - Advanced Horse Competition and Show Level II 9-18 LEC, 27-54 LAB, 1-2 UNITS CSU Advanced Horse Competition and Show Level II advances the theories, and practices of horse competition and show events such as; reining, ranch versatility, showmanship, cow work, equitation, trail, pleasure and halter. Emphasis will be placed on management of horse competition and participation in horse show events. Students will be provided the opportunity to study, learn, and practice the skills and techniques necessary to participate in horse competition and show while assisting the course instructor in developing the horse and rider in AGEQ151 and AGEQ152. Participants will demonstrate skill development while progressing skills and techniques learned in AGEQ251. Advisory AGEQ 251

AGEQ 296 - Special Projects in Equine Studies - Behavior And Training 9-36 LEC, 27-108 LAB, 1-4 UNITS Individual opportunities to study investigate, research, and participate in equine studies projects that are specific to equine behavior and training such as hackamore training, bridle training, advanced saddle horse training, cow-horse training, behavior modification.

AGEQ 297 - Special Projects in Equine Studies: Summer/Fall Operations 9-36 LEC, 27-108 LAB, 1-4 UNITS Individual opportunities to study investigate, research, and participate in equine studies projects that are specific to the summer and fall months such as fall production sales, futurity horse training, weaning and halter breaking foals, fall huntpacking trips, winter livestock preparation.

AGEQ 298 - Special Projects in Equine Studies: Winter/ Spring Operations 9-36 LEC, 27-108 LAB, 1-4 UNITS Individual opportunities to study, investigate, research and participate in specific equine studies projects during the winter and spring months such as: reproductive management of the stallion or broodmare, care of the newborn foal, starting the two year old, sale horse preparation, and horse show preparation. Student completes different performance objectives for each unit of credit.

AGEQ 299 - Special Topics in Equine Studies 9-36 LEC, 27-108 LAB, 1-4 UNITS CSU Individual opportunities to study, investigate, research, and participate in an equine studies project. 

Feather River College holds an annual production horse sale. 

Upcoming horse sale information