Assistant/Associate Professor of Equestrian Studies

Description

Stephens College invites applications for a full-time 9-month non-tenure track position in Equine Studies (salary and rank commensurate with experience). We welcome applications from candidates with diverse professional backgrounds in the equine and animal sciences. This may include expertise in equine business strategy, stable operations, facility management, event management, marketing, entrepreneurship, equine-assisted activities and therapies (EAAT), equine behavior, or animal science research.

We are seeking a collaborative educator who can contribute to our interdisciplinary initiatives—including partnerships with biology, psychology, animal behavior, and veterinary faculty—while also connecting with our Women in STEM Research (WiSR) program and our growing collaborations with the University of Missouri and surrounding community of animal welfare organizations.
 

We are also eager to consider applicants with professional experience, such as veterinary medicine, equine behavior consultation, equine welfare/advocacy, or equine-focused research, especially when combined with a passion for teaching and mentoring students.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Teach courses within the equine curriculum, with specific assignments determined by the candidate’s expertise and departmental needs. Potential courses include, but are not limited to:

                    EQS 301 – Equine Nutrition

                    EQS 310 – Stable Management

                    EQS 340 – Equine Anatomy

                    EQS 318 – Equine Marketing and Sales

                    EQS 401 – Management of Equestrian Events

                    EQS 405 – Equine Business

                    EQS 415 – Equine Practicum

• We are committed to building on each faculty member’s strengths, so teaching assignments will reflect areas where the candidate can have the greatest impact.
• Deliver hands-on, student-centered learning grounded in ethical horsemanship and evidence-based care
• Provide academic advising and career mentorship to undergraduate students
• Participate in curriculum development and program planning
• Support departmental service and interdisciplinary collaboration
• Represent the program through professional involvement, outreach, and industry partnerships

Requirements

Essential:

• Master’s degree in Equine Science, Equine Studies, Business, or a related field
• Demonstrated teaching experience at the collegiate or university level
• Passion for working with beginner riders/handlers and a proven ability to teach foundational horsemanship with an emphasis on equine welfare
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Commitment to innovative and experiential teaching practices 

Highly Desired:

• Ph.D., DVM, or other terminal degree
• Leadership in equine facility management or business operations
• Expertise in equine behavior, welfare-focused training, or applied research
• Professional experience in fields such as veterinary medicine, animal science, or related disciplines
• Experience mentoring undergraduate research or applied projects
• Certification or involvement in Equine-Assisted Activities and Therapies (EAAT) is welcome but not required
• Active engagement in professional equine, animal science, or welfare networks
• A record of community outreach, public education, or program development

Stephens College is a dynamic Women’s College invested in immersive and experiential learning. We are proud of our long-standing tradition and excellence in equine studies. Our equine program has continuously led the way in equine science, management, and education. As we look toward the future, we seek a forward-thinking individual who can honor our legacy while driving innovation and growth within our program.
 

At the heart of our program is a deep and ongoing commitment to equine welfare. We believe the horse’s well-being must come first in all aspects of instruction, care, training, and facility management. We are seeking an individual who embraces this philosophy and integrates it meaningfully into their teaching practices, particularly with beginner handlers/riders, where safety, clarity, and empathy are foundational to long-term success.

Our equine program is a key academic and experiential pillar on campus, contributing to majors across disciplines and supporting a collaborative research track through WiSR (Women in STEM Research). We maintain strong local, regional, and national partnerships w