Equine Studies offers specialised Certificates, Diplomas and Degrees in animal science and aspects of business management for the successful operation of an equine enterprise.
NMIT’s Equine Studies courses have been designed to develop the specialist skills and knowledge required to breed and manage horses, manage a stud farm and equestrian events.
Modern equine management demands a depth of scientific knowledge and skills with an intensive and individual focus on specialised study. A recent report from Victoria Skill Needs in 2011 noted that there is an existing demand for horse welfare specialists in the racing sector.
Source: Deloitte Access Economics, Victoria Skill Needs in 2011
The Equine Studies programs are delivered on NMIT’s established 300 hectare thoroughbred stud farm, Northern Lodge at Eden Park.
NMIT offers many pathways for students to further their studies. Many courses complement each other and allow students to gain deeper knowledge and higher qualifications.
Opportunities for complementary education in different sectors of NMIT’s Higher Education Primary Industries department, where students will complete the same core subjects and have opportunities for electives in different industries.
Student success stories:
- Suzette particularly enjoys the practical aspects of her course
- Jessica wants to specialise in equine pasture management
- Henry was a recipient of a $12,000 study grant
Available Courses (9)
Associate Degree of Equine Studies
Equine Studies is a specialised animal science that in combination with aspects of business management is essential for the successful operation of an equine enterprise. Studying NMIT’s Associate Degree of Equine Studies will develop the specialist knowledge and skills required to actively participate in the equine industry either in the breeding of horses or athletic pursuits such as racing or competition of horses.
Bachelor of Equine Studies
Equine Studies is a specialised animal science that in combination with aspects of business management is essential for the successful operation of an equine enterprise. Studying a Bachelor of Equine Studies will enable you to develop the specialist knowledge and skills required to breed horses, manage a stud farm or organise equestrian events.
Certificate III in Farriery
Australia’s equine industry is the country’s fifth largest, contributing $6.2 billion a year to the economy. The Certificate III in Farriery is a trade-oriented course. Gain accreditation as a recognised farrier so you can perform all the skills needed to fit and care for horses’ equine needs. Take your career by the reins today!
Diploma of Horse Breeding (Stud Management)
The Diploma of Horse Breeding (Stud Management) will cover practical horse management, business management and farm/property infrastructure management.
Certificate III in Racing (Advanced Stablehand)
Australia’s equine industry is the country’s fifth largest, and racing is a big part of this dynamic industry. Learn the skills needed to care for and ride thoroughbreds in a stud or stable environment. Take your career by the reins today
Certificate IV in Racing (Racehorse Trainer)
Develop the knowledge and skills to operate your own business as a racehorse trainer. Learn to perform a range of functions such as managing horse health or training horses for racing. NMIT’s Northern Lodge Stud at Eden Park (40 km north of Melbourne) is a fully equipped stable and training facility where you can train highly valued Yearling thoroughbreds
Diploma of Racing (Racehorse Trainer)
This course is designed for those who operate their own business as a racehorse trainer, or aspire to do so. Learn to perform a range of functions from supervising staff, to advising on livestock purchasing or training horses for racing at NMIT’s fully equipped stable and training facility, Northern Lodge Stud at Eden Park.
Certificate II in Racing (Stablehand)
Australia’s equine industry is the country’s fifth largest, and racing is a big part of this dynamic industry. Gain the practical experience and knowledge required for employment as a stablehand in a harness or thoroughbred racing stable. Learn skills such as grooming, transporting and trackwork. Take your career by the reins today!
Certificate III in Racing (Trackrider)
The Certificate III in Racing (Trackrider) can be taken in conjunction with the Certificate III in Racing (Advanced Stablehand). Please contact the Agriculture and Animal Science Department if you wish to enrol in this dual qualification. Australia’s equine industry is the country’s fifth largest, and racing is big part of this dynamic industry. Learn the skills needed to undertake the general care and grooming of thoroughbreds, and for trackriding. Take your career by the reins today
Higher Ed. Courses (2)
Associate Degree of Equine Studies
Equine Studies is a specialised animal science that in combination with aspects of business management is essential for the successful operation of an equine enterprise. Studying NMIT’s Associate Degree of Equine Studies will develop the specialist knowledge and skills required to actively participate in the equine industry either in the breeding of horses or athletic pursuits such as racing or competition of horses.
Bachelor of Equine Studies
Equine Studies is a specialised animal science that in combination with aspects of business management is essential for the successful operation of an equine enterprise. Studying a Bachelor of Equine Studies will enable you to develop the specialist knowledge and skills required to breed horses, manage a stud farm or organise equestrian events.


