Program Overview
Step into the world of animal care and science in the Butler Tech Equine & Livestock Science pathway. Explore the anatomy, physiology, and behavior of horses and livestock while gaining hands-on experience in daily care, handling, and management. Learn how to responsibly care for and work with these large animals in farm, ranch, and stable settings. No previous experience is required. Students will groom, feed, train, ride, and assist with the breeding of horses and livestock on campus every day.
- Develop riding and animal handling skills
- Gain experience in livestock and equine care and breeding practices
- Learn business management strategies for animal-related industries
- Work alongside animal care specialists to ensure health and well-being
The Butler Tech Natural Science Center, located on a former 72-acre fruit farm, provides the perfect natural learning environment. With barns, pastures, stables, and indoor and outdoor arenas, students step beyond the traditional classroom to apply core academics directly to their work with animals. Alongside a tight-knit community of like-minded peers, students experience authentic, hands-on learning every school day.
College Tech Prep Program
Many Equine & Livestock Science graduates work in allied industries such as breed associations, feed companies, research laboratories, and pharmaceutical companies. Others continue their education for a professional degree, such as veterinary medicine, or work toward a master’s or Doctor of Philosophy degree. Three out of four Equine & Livestock Science students go directly into two- or four-year colleges upon graduation with help from a full-time college counselor to create a career plan.
Student Organization
Equine & Livestock Science students participate in FFA, a dynamic youth organization that prepares members for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agriculture education. Awards and scholarship opportunities are also available through this program.
Program Highlights
Industry Overview
The United States horse and livestock industry represents a multi-billion-dollar business with diverse opportunities. Use your compassion, attention to detail, and hands-on skills to pursue a career in Equine & Livestock Science. From family farms to professional stables, and from cattle to award-winning stallions, this field offers the chance to care for, train, ride, and breed animals. A career in Equine & Livestock Science is full of possibilities for those passionate about animal health, well-being, and management.
Course Work
- Animal behavior and handling (horses and livestock)
- Equine and livestock health and nutrition
- Industry economics and business management
- Humane treatment and animal welfare in agriculture
- Anatomy, biology, and physiology of livestock and horses
- Horseback riding, training, and grooming
- Breeding practices and animal reproduction
- Project-based instruction with hands-on learning
- Animal health care, rehabilitation, and preventive medicine
- Business operations and legal compliance in animal industries
- Equipment selection, maintenance, and use for equine & livestock care
Credentials
- NHJTCA Equine Management & Evaluation Certification
- Elanco Fundamentals of Animal Science Certification