Murray, Ky.–The Murray State University Hutson School of Agriculture has been recognized by Farm House Tack for offering one of the best equine programs in the country.
The equipment supplier ranked Murray State ninth overall, citing its variety of strong equine programs and high-quality equestrian centers that prepare students for their careers, along with a broad selection of courses for any riding discipline. Murray State’s equine program was the top public non-land grant equine program ranked by Farm House Tack.
Murray State’s equine program offers a hands-on, real world-based education that prepares students for a variety of career options in the industry.
“We have a diverse range of educational opportunities in the equine program,” said Animal/Equine Science Department Head Dr. Shea Porr. “Our courses and curriculum are designed to accommodate students interested in a variety of equine fields, from research, nutrition, teaching and much more. We also have an excellent business side for students pursuing careers in equine management.”
The equine program is supported by five indoor and outdoor facilities equipped to offer students plenty of chances to learn outside the classroom. Facilities include a heated and cooled indoor arena, outdoor arena rodeo practice area, dressage facility and the Cherry Expo Center, which hosts a variety of equestrian and animal-focused events.
Fifty horses are housed at the University Equine Center, including Racer One. A Murray State football tradition, the legendary horse runs a lap around Roy Stewart Stadium after each Racer touchdown.
“We are so blessed to be able to offer these facilities to our students, as well as boarding options for Racers that want to bring their own horses with them to Murray State,” said Equine Facilities Manager Alysia Conner. “We have excellent facilities maintained by our faculty and staff, and we work every year to build on that foundation.”
The Hutson School of Agriculture also supports several student equestrian teams, from a western and hunt team competing in the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association to rodeo and dressage teams. Each team has seen strong success over the years, including appearances in national competition and top-ranked riders in the region.
“We are very competitive, both in our region and on the national scale, said Sue Robinson, coach and coordinator of riding. “We offer students as many chances as we can to compete.”
Learn more about the University’s equine program at bit.ly/MSUEquine.