Equine FAQS
Q: Where is the riding facility in relation to campus?
A. Ridgetop Farm, our equestrian facility, is a short drive from campus in Holliston, Massachusetts. At our state-of-the-art equine facility, students have 38 stalls, paddocks, and grass fields with an indoor ring and heated viewing area. Shuttle service to and from the facility is available to the Equine Management majors and the Women’s Equestrian Team.
Q: Do I need my own equipment before starting classes?
A. All students enrolled in the program need to bring their own riding attire, including boots, riding pants, helmet, and gloves. All horse equipment is provided by the owner of the facility for the 38 horses.
Q: How can I qualify to join the Equestrian Team?
A. If you are an Equine Management major or simply have an interest in riding, you can try out for our Women’s Equestrian Team. Please note that you do not have to be in the Equine Management program to try out for the team. Our team competes in “A” Circuit Hunter-Jumper shows in the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA). If you have any questions, contact Laura Reed-Doleski, Program Director, Equine Management or Becky Osinga, Assistant Equestrian Coach at (617) 928-7350.
Q: What riding style is practiced at the facility?
A. Mount Ida College practices hunter-jumper riding style at the facility.
Q: How do the business courses tie in with equine courses?
A. The equine curriculum provides a balanced course structure, including emphasis on both the science of the horses and the principles of business combined with internship experience. Students can choose from our two concentrations in Equine Facility Management or Equine Health Management.
Q: Can I bring my own horse to school?
A. Our students can bring their own horses to our facility. If you have any questions about this process, contact Laura Reed-Doleski, Program Director, Equine Management or Becky Osinga, Assistant Equestrian Coach at (617) 928-7350.
Q: Are there opportunities for study abroad?
A. Yes, the Center for Global Connections, in partnership with the School of Business, provides study abroad opportunities for Equine Management majors at Mount Ida. There are a variety of countries available for travel and eligibility is based on course requirements, GPA, and junior standing. In the past Equine Management students have traveled to Ireland. If you would like to learn more about studying at an international training facility, visit the Study Abroad website.
Q: What are the job prospects for Equine Management?
A. The job outlook for Equine Management is very positive. Our graduates have gone on to become professional riders, trainers, assistant managers, agents in feed, track and pharmaceutical businesses, equine veterinary assistants or employees in equine publishing. Students with an Equine Management degree can also pursue a graduate degree in the equine or business field.
Q: What is the student-to-instructor ratio in riding classes?
A. Classes range from 5:1 for student-to-instructor ratio. Small classes allow for personalized attention and support from our expert faculty. During your hands-on classes, you will have the opportunity to ask questions to your instructor about your riding development and career track.
Q: When are the hours of the riding facility?
A. The riding facility is open seven days a week. Open riding times are weekdays 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and weekends from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Additionally, our Women’s Equestrian Team trains at the facility on Wednesdays and Fridays.