Immerse yourself in the world of horses at UMass Amherst’s two-week Equine Science Summer Pre-College program. Work hands-on with your own adopted horse while learning about equine behavior, nutrition, reproduction, and management from expert faculty and professionals. Build horsemanship skills, explore equine careers, and complete a final case study integrating science and practice.
The UMass Amherst Equine Science Summer Pre-College program offers motivated high school students an intensive, hands-on introduction to the equine industry. Over two weeks at the university’s Hadley Farm Equine Center, students explore horse behavior, safety, nutrition, reproduction, stable management, and farrier science through daily practicums and workshops led by UMass faculty and visiting equine professionals.
Each participant “adopts” a farm horse for the duration of the program, working closely with it to develop skills in equine care, training, and management. The experience culminates in a student case study presentation that integrates scientific learning and practical horsemanship, with students analyzing their horse from the perspectives of a stable manager, veterinarian, and trainer.
By the end of the program, students will understand evidence-based horse management, improve their horsemanship, and explore career pathways in the equine field. Safety gear—including boots, gloves, and ASTM/SEI-approved helmets—is required. Applicants must submit a letter of interest describing their experience, goals, and passion for the equine profession.
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