Equine Journalism, Bachelor of Arts
The Bachelor of Arts in equine journalism provides in-depth knowledge of equestrian studies in conjunction with the foundations of journalism. Courses in equestrian studies offer comprehension of equine anatomy, horsemanship and horse-related industries. Courses in journalism and writing teach the basics of Associated Press style, conventions of journalism, public relations, feature-writing and media ethics and practices. Students apply this learning in courses that prepare them for careers as professional writers.
All equine journalism majors complete an internship in the field, selected in consultation with the student’s academic adviser and the director of career services, and positions on the campus newspaper are open to all students. Students in any major may try out for equestrian teams and volunteer at college-sponsored equestrian events.
Graduates in equine journalism can write for media organizations that report on equestrian events – everything from local newspapers, where equestrian activities are popular, to national news and media outlets that cover such activities.
In addition to writing for print and online publications, graduates will be prepared to work in public relations and corporate communications for large companies in the field. The major also prepares graduates for careers directly in the equestrian industry, in creating marketing, sales and technical writing for pharmaceutical companies, horse barns, breeders and manufacturers of tack and apparel.
Students completing the major will also appeal very strongly to associations, foundations and nonprofit organizations related to the horse/equestrian industry, as well as to the public relations/communications departments of schools/universities where equestrian studies is an important part of the program.
As they pursue their liberal arts education, students in equine journalism are encouraged to include coursework in fields such as business, fine arts, ethics, media studies, English, biology or environmental studies.
Degree Requirements
Required Courses
One of the following courses chosen in consultation with academic adviser
| ENG 220 | Creative Writing | 3 |
| FA 118 | Photography I | 4 |
| FA 120 | Graphic Design I | 3 |
| COM 233 | Intergrated Marketing & Communications | 3 |
| COM 303 | Communications Law and Ethics | 3 |
| ENG BB | Billboard Print/Online Journalism Pract | 2 |
| OR | |
| Relevant communications topics course, per academic adviser’s approval. | |
COM BB: For total of three semester hours
One of the following courses, chosen in consultation with academic adviser:
| EFT 201 | Equine Fac Therapeutics I | 3 |
| EFT 213 | Ground Training the Horse | 3 |
| EFT 215 | Equine Biomechanics/Kinesiology | 3 |
| EQS 125 | Equine Breeding Management | 3 |
| EQS 220 | Management of Equine Events | 3 |
| EQS 315 | Equine Performance Management | 3 |
| | |
EQT XXX
| Equitation (for a total of four semester hours) | |
| OR | |
| Relevant EQS topics course (per academic adviser’s approval) | |