Utah State University's Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Science Department offers an Institutional Certificate of Proficiency in Equine-Assisted Services, a program designed to teach students how to use horses for human mental, physical, and emotional health benefits.
Equine Certificate Program Details
The certificate program provides a foundational overview of the field, covering the principles of Equine-Assisted Services (EAS), the human-animal bond, and methods for training and assessing horses. According to the university, the curriculum includes hands-on labs to prepare students for industry certifications, such as becoming a Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor or an Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning.
Faculty Expertise and Research Focus
The program's faculty includes lecturer Sarah Andersen, who holds specialized certifications as an Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning and a Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor. Andersen's research and teaching interests focus on equine welfare, training, and the development of ground skills assessments for EAS.
Iron County Student Mental Health Services
In a separate effort to support student well-being, the Iron County School District partnered with Southern Utah University to provide free mental health services throughout June and July for K-12 students living in Iron County.
District Resources for Families
The Iron County School District also maintains resources for families, including a well-being screener for students grades 3-12 struggling with anxiety, depression, or self-harmful behaviors.
