William Woods University expands storied equestrian program
William Woods University will be expanding its equestrian program with a new $600,000 veterinarian center and a 17-acre property. The new property will feature an indoor riding center, six horse stalls and an isolation area for ill horses, as well as a lower area dedicated to classroom learning.
The Center for Equine Medicine will also include a home for the new on-site veterinarian, Dr. Paul Schiltz. Schiltz has been an off-campus primary care veterinarian for WWU for 18 years and has been a veterinarian with Equine Medical Services in Columbia for the past 20 years. He took this new position as a way to combine veterinary caretaking and education.
“I’m most excited about the ability to create situations where students can do applied science,” Schiltz said. “This is a way for them to take all of their science background and apply it. It opens up an entire new facet, as far as educational opportunities for students goes. It’s very exciting.”
WWU takes pride in their long-standing equestrian program. The school began offering equestrian classes in 1923, and in 1972, WWU was the first university in the world to offer a four-year degree in equestrian science. The school recently added an online master’s degree program in equestrian education.
Right now, there are 163 students majoring or minoring in an equine-related program at WWU. The school has a 100 percent acceptance rate for equestrian students who go on to apply for advanced degrees in veterinary medicine, medicine, pharmaceuticals or physical therapy. It also has a 100 percent job placement rate for graduates of equestrian programs.
The expansion serves to provide more resources to those who are interested in veterinary medicine, a field that has grown by 50 percent in the last four years.
“Our equestrian students need to know not only how to ride horses, but how to care for them,” said Jennie Petterson, chair of the equestrian studies division. “I am thrilled that this program will significantly expand our curriculum and provide more in-depth observation and treatment of equine health issues.”
WWU expects to complete development of the center this summer. Classes in the center will begin in August.
“This will be a wonderful addition to William Woods University,” Dr. Jahnae Barnett, university president, said. “The Center for Equine Medicine will capitalize on the strength of our equestrian and biology programs, providing a unique opportunity for students to study and care for these beloved animals.”
Photos provided by William Woods University.