Ranch Horse Management

Ranch Horse Science is the study of horses used in the ranching industry to complete a number of duties, from transportation up to and including the handling of livestock while on horseback. Students will learn the basics of equine anatomy, nutrition, reproduction, hoof care, health care, first aid, and basic veterinary care for livestock. Most importantly, students will learn the techniques of building a partnership with their equine colleagues. The understanding of the horses personality, the effort to use that understanding to become an effective team, and the essential skills of pressure and release will be the basis of building such a partnership. Students will learn in-depth about ranch horse equipment, including saddles, bits, spurs, lariats, and how to use these and other tools. Horses and cattle will be provided for all of the hands on work including riding skills, stockmanship, and ranch roping instruction. The entire program is based on safety and low-stress stock-handling techniques that are so important in todays beef industry.

Bachelor Degree Minimum Requirements

Admission to USU is test optional for Spring 2022, Summer 2022, and Fall 2022. ACT/SAT test scores will still be considered if submitted.

• 2.8-4.0 GPA - Admitted in Good Standing
  • Students with less than a 2.8 high school GPA may still be admitted in good standing based upon the combination of their GPA and ACT/SAT score. See if you qualify.
• 2.79 GPA & below - Considered for Earned Admission path.

Associate Degree Minimum Requirements

Most USU Eastern and USU Blanding Associates Degrees and Certificates are open enrollment and do not require a minimum high school GPA or ACT/SAT score.

Recommended High School Prep Work

• 4 years of English
• 4 years of Math (One class beyond math 3)
• 3.5 years of Social Science
• 3 years of Lab-Based Science (one each: biology, chemistry, and physics)
• 2 years of a world language (same language, taken progressively during grades 9-12)

With a certificate of completion in Ranch Horse Science, students can pursue the following careers:

• Cowboy or buckaroo on any of the large cattle producing ranches where horseback skills are a necessity
• Apprentice horse trainer
• Ranch horse equipment sales and service
• Pen rider for large cattle feeding operations
• Contacts for employment in many areas may become available throughout the year.