North Carolina's equine science pathway prepares students for careers in horse breeding, training, and care management. Students develop hands-on expertise in equine health, nutrition, reproduction, and behavioral management while working with live animals in on-campus facilities. This pathway combines biological sciences with practical horsemanship skills, preparing graduates for positions in boarding facilities, therapeutic riding centers, and agricultural enterprises throughout the state.
The program emphasizes both traditional and modern equine management practices, from farrier work to veterinary care coordination. Students learn about genetic selection, performance evaluation, and business management specific to equine operations. North Carolina's thriving equine industry, particularly in the Piedmont and western regions, provides excellent internship and employment opportunities.
Graduates transition into roles as equine managers, horse trainers, breeding specialists, and facility operators. Many establish their own boarding operations or therapeutic riding programs, while others work for established facilities serving North Carolina's active equestrian community.
Equine Science at a Glance
3
Courses
8
Credentials
4
Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
North Carolina's equine science curriculum aligns with the NC Career and Technical Education Course Inventory, requiring 4-6 career pathway units. Students master content in equine husbandry, health management, breeding selection, and business operations as defined by state standards.
Students complete certifications through recognized bodies like the American Association of Equine Practitioners and farrier organizations. The pathway emphasizes understanding animal behavior, veterinary principles, facility management, and sustainable agricultural practices specific to equine enterprises.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course | Code |
|---|---|
| Agriscience | AU10 |
| Animal Science I | AA21 |
| Animal Science II | AA22 |
Industry Certifications & Credentials
- ✓ServSafe Manager
- ✓Certified Veterinary Assistant
- ✓Certified Horticulture Professional
- ✓Certified Landscape Technician
- ✓OSHA 10-Hour General Industry
- ✓First Aid/CPR/AED
- ✓NOCTI Agriculture Mechanics
- ✓NOCTI Agricultural Production
Career Opportunities
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.
Equine Facility Manager
Entry LevelSalary range: $37,870 - $58,050
Adjusted for cost of living: $40,227
Horse Trainer
ExperiencedAdjusted for cost of living: $44,614
Veterinary Technician (Equine)
Entry LevelSalary range: $37,610 - $50,200
Adjusted for cost of living: $39,951
Breeding Program Specialist
ExperiencedSalary range: $32,040 - $41,600
Adjusted for cost of living: $37,423
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Students complete internships at boarding facilities, breeding operations, and therapeutic riding centers throughout North Carolina's equine region.
Career & Technical Student Organization
Students in this pathway can participate in National FFA Organization, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.
How Sage Helps North Carolina CTE Programs
AI-Powered Curriculum
Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months
North Carolina Standards Built In
Pre-loaded with North Carolina's CTE standards and frameworks
Teacher Customization
Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment
Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as North Carolina standards and industry needs evolve
Related Pathways in North Carolina
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