The program, now in its second year, is designed for individuals with a master’s degree in a related field or established professionals seeking to expand their skills. This year’s students, Marie deBeauchesne, Sophie Engerran, Delphine Herbeau, Raja Mahjoob, Emmanuelle Morvillers, Estelle Rewega, and Camille Valette, came from a variety of horse-related backgrounds and career interests, ranging from Arabians to Standardbreds to race and show horses. The group had a diverse educational background with degrees in language, sports management, and an array of agricultural focuses.

During the 15-month program, students attend lectures and seminars in addition to two hands-on internship periods, which culminate in a final thesis project related to equine business, management, or science. Learning sessions take place at AgroSup, Bourgogne, l’Universit’ de Caen, Haras du Pin, and UK, while students can complete internships anywhere in the world.

So far this year’s students have attended the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, the Kentucky International Equine Summit, and horse races at Churchill Downs. Their learning segment in Normandy included lectures by Mary Rossano, assistant professor in animal and food sciences in the UK College of Agriculture