The Equine Administration major was instituted by the Division of Equestrian Studies at William Woods University in 1992, where it joined an already established and nationally recognized program in Equestrian Science. Recognizing that the equine industry is made up of many diverse aspects, the university decided a major was needed that went beyond the strengths of the traditional equestrian major, those being the strengths of riding and teaching. It involves 7.1 million Americans and supports 1.4 million full-time jobs. The Equine Administration program at WWU is designed for those students who wish to pursue a career in the equine industry within the areas of business organizations, breed associations, facility and event managers, and entrepreneurs. Students enrolled in the program receive both theoretical and applied experience through required course work.
Course work in the major is started the first semester that the student is on campus.
Applied course work includes techniques of both equine and facility management, show and event management and a minimum of three semesters of applied riding. Theoretical course work incorporates topics such as economics, entrepreneurship, promotion and public relations, law and taxation in equine specific formats. There are also five additional business and computer courses required to intensify the major. The Division of Equestrian Studies has six full-time instructors who are actively involved in their respective equestrian fields. The faculty expose the students to the professional horse world, not only through their teaching but also through their individual involvement in the equestrian industry.