We’ve assembled a list of the top colleges for equestrian programs to get your planning started.
Although college might be many years off, it’s never too early to start thinking about your goals. When the time comes, you’ll want to be as prepared as possible so you get accepted into the college of your dreams!Â
Whether you’re aiming for a professional riding career, a future in equine science, or just want to keep horses in your life while earning a degree, the perfect college can make all the difference. Some schools are known for their competitive riding teams, others for equestrian academic programs, and a few have both.
Here are 10 of the most reputable and well-rounded equestrian college programs (in no particular order) to consider as you plan your future.
1. Auburn University – Auburn, Ala.
A Division I powerhouse in the National Collegiate Equestrian Association (NCEA), Auburn has won multiple national championships and offers a strong animal sciences program with an equine focus.
â—† Auburn Equestrian Team
â—† Auburn Equestrian Center & Equine Program
2. University of Kentucky (UK) – Lexington, Ky.
Located in the heart of horse country, UK is home to a nationally respected equine science and management program. Students benefit from close industry ties and access to world-class internships.
â—† UK Equestrian Teams
â—† UK Equine Programs
3. Texas A&M University – College Station, Texas
With a strong NCEA team and nationally ranked veterinary and animal science programs, Texas A&M is a great fit for students balancing academics and competitive riding.
â—† Texas A&M Equestrian Team
â—† Texas A&M Equine Program
4. University of Georgia (UGA) – Athens, Ga.
UGA combines a successful NCEA team with top-notch pre-vet and animal science programs, offering a well-rounded experience for academically focused equestrians.
â—† UGA Equestrian Team
â—†.UGA Equine Program
5. Centenary University – Hackettstown, N.J.
Centenary is highly respected in the equestrian world, offering degrees in equine studies with real-world experience. They also have competitive Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA) and U.S. Equestrian Federation (USEF) teams.
â—† Centenary Equestrian Team
â—† Centenary Equine Program
6. Otterbein University – Westerville, Ohio
Otterbein offers strong horse-focused academics, including business, science, and pre-veterinary tracks, plus competitive IHSA and Intercollegiate Dressage Association (IDA) teams, along with excellent facilities right on campus.
â—† Otterbein Equestrian Team
â—† Otterbein Equine Program
7. Sweet Briar College – Sweet Briar, Va.
With a 130-acre on-campus riding center, Sweet Briar offers an equine studies major and a competitive IHSA team, providing personalized instruction in a beautiful rural setting.
â—† Sweet Briar Equestrian Program
8. Keiser University – West Palm Beach, Fla.
Keiser’s biomedical sciences major with equine studies concentration is ideal for students interested in veterinary careers. You can participate in club-level riding activities, and the location near Wellington International equestrian showgrounds makes it easy to blend science and sport.
9. Colorado State University (CSU) – Fort Collins, Colo.
CSU’s equine science and pre-vet programs are among the best in the west, with access to top researchers and industry professionals. Club-level riding teams enhance the overall experience.
10. William Woods University – Fulton, Mo.
William Woods was the first U.S. university to offer a four-year equestrian science degree. With over 150 school-owned horses, top facilities, and majors in equine administration, equine science, and equestrian general studies, the program blends academic rigor with hands-on learning. Students ride in multiple seats and gain experience in show management, teaching, judging, and more.
â—† Willliam Woods Equestrian Program
â—† Willliam Woods Equestrian Teams & Clubs
Choosing the Right College Equestrian Program
There’s no one-size-fits-all path, but with the right mix of academics and equestrian opportunities, you can find a college that supports both your future career and your love for horses.
â—† Decide whether you want to compete on a varsity (NCEA) or club (IHSA, IDA) level.
◆ Consider whether you’ll bring your own horse or ride school-owned horses.
â—† Look at scholarship availability, team culture, and how riding fits into your academic goals.
◆ It’s a great idea to visit campuses and meet current team members if you can.
This article about top college equestrian programs appeared in the September/October 2025 issue of Young Rider magazine. Click here to subscribe!
