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 provide an understanding of equine anatomy, horsemanship, and horse-related industries. Courses in Journalism and writing teach the basics of AP style, conventions of journalism, public relations, feature writing, and media ethics and practices. Students apply this learning in small courses that prepare them for careers as professional writers.

All majors in Equine Journalism complete an internship in the field, selected in consultation with the student’s academic advisor 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 sales, marketing, and technical written materials 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 non-profit organizations related to the horse/equestrian industry, as well as to the public relations/communications departments of schools/universities where equestrian is an important part of the program.

As they pursue their liberal arts education, students in Equine Journalism are encouraged to include course work in fields such as business, fine arts, ethics, media studies, English, biology, or environmental studies.