Johnson & Wales University (JWU) is a private university in Providence, Rhode Island, offering comprehensive equine and animal science education programs that prepare students for careers in the equine industry, animal welfare, veterinary medicine, equine-assisted services, and related fields. With a history of equine education dating back to 1980, JWU has built a strong reputation for combining academic instruction with hands-on experiential learning opportunities.
Today, the university’s equine legacy continues through its Animal Science program, which includes an Equine Science specialization and coursework focused on horse management, welfare, behavior, training, and animal-assisted interventions. Students gain practical experience through partnerships with farms, stables, research facilities, and equine organizations throughout the region.
About This Program
JWU’s equine-focused curriculum is designed for students interested in careers involving horses, animal care, veterinary medicine, equine management, and equine-assisted services. Coursework covers equine studies, animal behavior, nutrition, health, welfare, facility management, horsemanship, and animal-assisted interventions. Students also have opportunities to participate in riding instruction, internships, research projects, and experiential learning activities.
The program emphasizes real-world experience and industry connections. Through partnerships with equine facilities and animal organizations, students work directly with animals while developing practical skills that prepare them for professional careers or advanced study in veterinary medicine, occupational therapy, animal science, and related disciplines.
Services Offered
- Bachelor’s degree programs in Animal Science
- Equine Science specialization
- Animal-assisted interventions coursework
- Equine health and sports therapy studies
- Horsemanship and riding instruction
- Equine facility management education
- Animal behavior and welfare studies
- Pre-veterinary academic preparation
- Experiential learning and internships
- Study-abroad and industry networking opportunities
- Intercollegiate equestrian team participation
Who They Serve
Johnson & Wales University Equine Programs may be good for:
- College students pursuing equine careers
- Future veterinarians
- Aspiring equine professionals
- Individuals interested in equine-assisted services
- Students pursuing animal science careers
- Future riding instructors
- Individuals interested in horse management and welfare
- Students seeking experiential equine education
- Individuals pursuing careers in animal-assisted therapy
- Equine enthusiasts interested in professional development
Facility and Setting
Johnson & Wales University is headquartered in Providence, Rhode Island, and delivers its animal science and equine education programs through academic facilities and partnerships with farms, stables, and research centers throughout the region. This model allows students to gain hands-on experience with animals in professional settings while benefiting from a university education.
Students participate in practical learning experiences involving animal handling, health management, riding instruction, and equine industry operations. The program emphasizes direct engagement with animals and industry professionals as part of the educational experience.
What Makes Them Unique
Johnson & Wales University stands out for its long history of equine education and its evolution into a modern animal science program that incorporates equine science, animal welfare, pre-veterinary studies, and animal-assisted interventions. The university has continuously adapted its curriculum to reflect changes in the equine and animal care industries.
Another distinguishing feature is the integration of equine-assisted services and therapy-related education. Students have opportunities to learn about animal-assisted interventions, hippotherapy, therapeutic riding, and the role of horses in health and wellness professions, creating pathways into a growing area of the equine industry.