We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Chris J. Mortensen, Ph.D.
There are over 100 million horses, donkeys and mules in the world today and owners of these animals can be found on almost every continent and in almost every society. The Horse Course will cover many unique aspects of equine ownership and touch upon the science behind many of today’s management practices.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/p3zs8w/the
Here's a deal for you
Save money when you learn with a deal that may be relevant to this course.
All coupon codes, vouchers, and discounts are applied automatically unless otherwise noted.
Get offer
What's inside
Syllabus
Introduction to The Horse Course
Welcome to Week 1 of The Horse Course! To start off the course, we will begin discussing what exactly an “equid” is. We will cover the many equine species inhabiting our globe. Next, we’ll jump into the history of horses and donkeys, touching upon how they have made such an impact on our own societal development. The second half of week 1 will cover the many breeds of horses and donkeys. We will finish up with a lecture on the equine hybrids.
Read more
Syllabus
Introduction to The Horse Course
Welcome to Week 1 of The Horse Course! To start off the course, we will begin discussing what exactly an “equid” is. We will cover the many equine species inhabiting our globe. Next, we’ll jump into the history of horses and donkeys, touching upon how they have made such an impact on our own societal development. The second half of week 1 will cover the many breeds of horses and donkeys. We will finish up with a lecture on the equine hybrids.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Examines the history of horses and donkeys, giving learners an overview of their impact on societal development
Covers various breeds of horses and donkeys, helping learners understand the diversity within these species
Explores basic equine physiology, including hoof anatomy and care, providing a solid foundation for understanding equine health
Focuses on equine behavior and training, giving learners valuable insights into the psychology and communication of horses
Discusses feeding management and nutritional disorders, helping learners understand the importance of proper nutrition for equine health
Examines common genetic disorders in horses, providing learners with knowledge to make informed breeding decisions
Save this course
Create your own learning path.
Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save
Save
Reviews summary
Introduction to basic horse care
According to learners, this course provides a very helpful introduction to basic horse care and management. Students appreciated the wide range of topics covered, including physiology, behavior, feeding, and health, finding the information practical and easy to understand. Many felt it offered a solid foundation for someone new to owning or managing horses. However, a few reviewers mentioned that the course lacks depth for those with prior experience or seeking advanced knowledge.
Information is directly applicable to care.
"Learned practical tips I could use immediately for daily horse management and care."
"The sections on feeding and health were very relevant for daily care and understanding potential issues."
"I now understand the science behind the management practices discussed, which makes them easier to implement."
Very accessible for those new to horses.
"Perfect for someone who is completely new to horses and wants to understand the fundamentals before getting one."
"It really broke down the information so it was easy to grasp, even without any prior knowledge."
"Highly recommend this course for anyone starting out or thinking about horse ownership. It's very approachable."
Comprehensive overview of essential topics.
"This course covered all the basics needed for new owners. It touched on everything from health to behavior."
"I was impressed by how many different aspects of horse care were included in the curriculum. It's a great starting point."
"From physiology to health and feeding, it gives a broad overview of the essentials you need to know."
May be too basic for experienced learners.
"Good as a refresher, but not enough new information for me as someone who has owned horses for years."
"I was hoping for more advanced topics in areas like breeding or specific training methods."
"It's a good overview, but definitely not for advanced learners seeking in-depth specialization."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in The Horse Course: Introduction to Basic Care and Management with these
activities:
Create a digital notebook for course notes
Show steps
Organize and consolidate your course notes for easy review and reference.
Browse courses on
Note-Taking
Show steps
-
Create a new digital notebook specific for the course.
-
Import or transcribe class notes, readings, and other materials.
-
Categorize and label notes for efficient organization.
-
Review and expand on your notes regularly.
Read 'Equine Science' by Rick Parker
Show steps
Expand your knowledge of equine science by delving into a comprehensive reference book.
View
Equine Science
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read and summarize key chapters on equine anatomy, physiology, and nutrition.
-
Identify areas where your understanding has improved.
Review equine anatomy
Show steps
Update your equine anatomy knowledge to reinforce your understanding of equine physiology and management practices.
Show steps
-
Sketch the different parts of the equine skeleton.
-
Locate and describe the major muscles of the equine body.
-
Review the anatomy of the equine digestive system.
-
Identify and describe the structures of the equine hoof.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Review equine anatomy
Show steps
Ensure you have a good understanding of equine anatomy. It can make all the difference when it comes to learning physiology and nutrition later on.
Show steps
-
Draw or sketch a diagram of the equine skeletal system.
-
Label the major bones and joints on the diagram.
-
Identify the major muscle groups on a horse.
Join a peer study group
Show steps
Enhance your learning experience by connecting with peers for discussions and support.
Show steps
-
Identify peers who share similar interests in equine science.
-
Establish regular study sessions to discuss course materials.
-
Collaborate on projects and assignments.
Practice hoof care techniques
Show steps
Apply your knowledge of hoof anatomy to practice essential hoof care techniques.
Show steps
-
Learn proper hoof trimming techniques.
-
Practice applying hoof treatments.
-
Identify and address common hoof problems.
Attend a workshop on equine behavior
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of equine behavior and training by attending a specialized workshop.
Browse courses on
Equine Behavior
Show steps
-
Learn about different equine body language cues.
-
Practice basic handling and training techniques.
-
Discuss common behavior problems and their solutions.
Create a presentation on equine nutrition
Show steps
Demonstrate your understanding of equine nutrition by creating a comprehensive presentation.
Browse courses on
Equine Nutrition
Show steps
-
Research different types of horse feed.
-
Calculate nutritional requirements for different breeds and ages.
-
Design a feeding program for a specific horse.
-
Present your findings to a group of peers or professionals.
Develop an equine management plan
Show steps
Apply your knowledge of equine care and management to create a practical plan for a real-world scenario.
Browse courses on
Equine Management
Show steps
-
Select a specific equine and its environment.
-
Assess the horse's current health and needs.
-
Develop a comprehensive plan that addresses housing, nutrition, healthcare, and training.
-
Implement the plan and monitor its effectiveness.
Create a digital notebook for course notes
Show steps
Organize and consolidate your course notes for easy review and reference.
Browse courses on
Note-Taking
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Create a new digital notebook specific for the course.
- Import or transcribe class notes, readings, and other materials.
- Categorize and label notes for efficient organization.
- Review and expand on your notes regularly.
Read 'Equine Science' by Rick Parker
Show steps
Expand your knowledge of equine science by delving into a comprehensive reference book.
View
Equine Science
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read and summarize key chapters on equine anatomy, physiology, and nutrition.
- Identify areas where your understanding has improved.
Review equine anatomy
Show steps
Update your equine anatomy knowledge to reinforce your understanding of equine physiology and management practices.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Sketch the different parts of the equine skeleton.
- Locate and describe the major muscles of the equine body.
- Review the anatomy of the equine digestive system.
- Identify and describe the structures of the equine hoof.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Review equine anatomy
Show steps
Ensure you have a good understanding of equine anatomy. It can make all the difference when it comes to learning physiology and nutrition later on.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Draw or sketch a diagram of the equine skeletal system.
- Label the major bones and joints on the diagram.
- Identify the major muscle groups on a horse.
Join a peer study group
Show steps
Enhance your learning experience by connecting with peers for discussions and support.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify peers who share similar interests in equine science.
- Establish regular study sessions to discuss course materials.
- Collaborate on projects and assignments.
Practice hoof care techniques
Show steps
Apply your knowledge of hoof anatomy to practice essential hoof care techniques.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Learn proper hoof trimming techniques.
- Practice applying hoof treatments.
- Identify and address common hoof problems.
Attend a workshop on equine behavior
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of equine behavior and training by attending a specialized workshop.
Browse courses on
Equine Behavior
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Learn about different equine body language cues.
- Practice basic handling and training techniques.
- Discuss common behavior problems and their solutions.
Create a presentation on equine nutrition
Show steps
Demonstrate your understanding of equine nutrition by creating a comprehensive presentation.
Browse courses on
Equine Nutrition
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research different types of horse feed.
- Calculate nutritional requirements for different breeds and ages.
- Design a feeding program for a specific horse.
- Present your findings to a group of peers or professionals.
Develop an equine management plan
Show steps
Apply your knowledge of equine care and management to create a practical plan for a real-world scenario.
Browse courses on
Equine Management
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Select a specific equine and its environment.
- Assess the horse's current health and needs.
- Develop a comprehensive plan that addresses housing, nutrition, healthcare, and training.
- Implement the plan and monitor its effectiveness.
Career center
Learners who complete The Horse Course: Introduction to Basic Care and Management will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Veterinary Technician
Veterinary Technician
Veterinary Technicians work under the supervision of Veterinarians to provide medical care to animals. They perform a variety of tasks, including taking vital signs, administering medication, and assisting with surgery. The Horse Course: Introduction to Basic Care and Management provides a strong foundation in equine anatomy, physiology, and nutrition. This knowledge is essential for Veterinary Technicians who work with horses.
Animal Care Manager
Animal Care Manager
Animal Care Managers oversee the care of animals, including horses. They ensure that animals are fed, watered, and exercised, and that their living quarters are clean and safe. The Horse Course: Introduction to Basic Care and Management provides a comprehensive overview of equine care and management. This knowledge is essential for Animal Care Managers who work with horses.
Equine Nutritionist
Equine Nutritionist
Equine Nutritionists develop and implement nutrition plans for horses. They work with horse owners and trainers to ensure that horses are getting the nutrients they need to stay healthy and perform at their best. The Horse Course: Introduction to Basic Care and Management provides a solid foundation in equine nutrition. This knowledge is essential for Equine Nutritionists.
Farrier
Farrier
Farriers are responsible for the care and maintenance of horses' hooves. They trim and shoe horses' hooves to prevent injury and promote healthy hoof growth. The Horse Course: Introduction to Basic Care and Management provides a basic understanding of equine hoof anatomy and physiology. This knowledge is essential for Farriers.
Horse Breeder
Horse Breeder
Horse Breeders raise and sell horses. They select breeding stock, breed horses, and raise foals. The Horse Course: Introduction to Basic Care and Management provides a comprehensive overview of equine breeding and management. This knowledge is essential for Horse Breeders.
Horse Groom
Horse Groom
Horse Grooms provide care and maintenance for horses. They clean horses, brush their coats, and trim their manes and tails. They may also exercise horses and prepare them for shows. The Horse Course: Introduction to Basic Care and Management provides a basic understanding of equine care and management. This knowledge is essential for Horse Grooms.
Horse Trainer
Horse Trainer
Horse Trainers train horses to perform specific tasks, such as riding, driving, or jumping. They use a variety of techniques to train horses, including positive reinforcement and negative reinforcement. The Horse Course: Introduction to Basic Care and Management provides a basic understanding of equine behavior and training. This knowledge is essential for Horse Trainers.
Livestock Manager
Livestock Manager
Livestock Managers oversee the care and management of livestock, including horses. They ensure that livestock are fed, watered, and exercised, and that their living quarters are clean and safe. The Horse Course: Introduction to Basic Care and Management provides a comprehensive overview of equine care and management. This knowledge is essential for Livestock Managers who work with horses.
Ranch Hand
Ranch Hand
Ranch Hands perform a variety of tasks on ranches, including caring for livestock, maintaining equipment, and repairing fences. The Horse Course: Introduction to Basic Care and Management provides a basic understanding of equine care and management. This knowledge is beneficial for Ranch Hands who work with horses.
Veterinarian
Veterinarian
Veterinarians diagnose and treat diseases and injuries in animals. They perform a variety of tasks, including surgery, vaccinations, and euthanasia. The Horse Course: Introduction to Basic Care and Management provides a basic understanding of equine anatomy, physiology, and nutrition. This knowledge is beneficial for Veterinarians who work with horses.
Zookeeper
Zookeeper
Zookeepers care for animals in zoos and other captive environments. They feed animals, clean their enclosures, and monitor their health. The Horse Course: Introduction to Basic Care and Management provides a basic understanding of equine care and management. This knowledge is beneficial for Zookeepers who work with horses.
Animal Shelter Worker
Animal Shelter Worker
Animal Shelter Workers care for animals in shelters. They feed animals, clean their cages, and provide them with medical care. The Horse Course: Introduction to Basic Care and Management provides a basic understanding of equine care and management. This knowledge is beneficial for Animal Shelter Workers who work with horses.
Park Ranger
Park Ranger
Park Rangers protect and manage natural resources in parks and other protected areas. They may also provide educational programs and interpret the natural environment for visitors. The Horse Course: Introduction to Basic Care and Management provides a basic understanding of equine care and management. This knowledge is beneficial for Park Rangers who work with horses.
Conservationist
Conservationist
Conservationists work to protect and preserve natural resources. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private landowners. The Horse Course: Introduction to Basic Care and Management provides a basic understanding of equine care and management. This knowledge is beneficial for Conservationists who work with horses.
Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife Biologists study the behavior and ecology of wild animals. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private landowners. The Horse Course: Introduction to Basic Care and Management provides a basic understanding of equine care and management. This knowledge is beneficial for Wildlife Biologists who work with horses.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/p3zs8w/the
Reading list
We've selected six books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
The Horse Course: Introduction to Basic Care and Management.
Offers a detailed account of infectious diseases in horses, expanding on the topics covered in the Maintaining Equine Health module of the course.
This specialized book provides an in-depth analysis of equine locomotion, expanding on the topics covered in the Equine Behavior and Training module and offering advanced knowledge for those interested in horse movement and biomechanics.
This unique text places behavior within the context of evolution and ecology, providing an evolutionary perspective on behavior, and emphasizing the role of natural selection.
Offers a comprehensive and engaging account of the horse's natural history, including its evolution, behavior, and cultural significance, providing a broader context for understanding the course topics.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about horse care, from choosing the right breed to training and feeding.
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of horse genetics, covering topics such as coat color, breed origins, and genetic disorders.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/p3zs8w/the
Share
Similar courses
Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Florida
Instructor
Chris J. Mortensen, Ph.D.
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
Français
Português
Deutsch
Italiano
中文
العربية
한국어
日本語
हिंदी
Nederlands
Svenska
Pусский
Türkçe
Polski
Ελληνικά
українська мова
magyar nyelv
Bahasa Indonesia
ไทย
қазақша
اُردُو,
فارسی
বাংলা
tiếng Việt
پښتو
آذربایجان دیلی
Our mission
OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.
Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.
Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.
Affiliate disclosure
We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.
Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.
Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.
© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser