SPOTLIGHT
ST. ANDREWS UNIVERSITY Fusing Passion and Business: An Innovative MBA in Equine Entrepreneurship IMAGINE TURNING YOUR PASSION FOR HORSES into a thriving
business. For equine enthusiasts dreaming of a career in the equestrian industry, St. Andrews University in Laurinburg, NC, illuminates the path to success with its innovative online MBA specializing in Equine Entrepreneurship. Tailored for go-getters ready to jump into the business arena, this program blends your love for horses with critical business strategies, making your equestrian business a reality.
The horse industry is a specialized field that demands equestrian expertise and sharp business acumen. Recognizing this unique interplay, St. Andrews University has crafted a curriculum that brings students specialized equine knowledge in business planning, marketing, law and ethics, management, and financial management, all through a convenient online format. And with the possibility of completing the program in just 12 months, it’s an express ride to leadership in the equine industry. “Flexibility is the cornerstone of our program,” Dr. Wayne Freeman, MBA program director, tells The Plaid Horse. “It’s your guide through the entrepreneurial maze in the equine world. One of the standout features of our program is its flexibility. The online format allows you to pursue your MBA from anywhere worldwide, fitting the coursework into your busy schedule.”
THE CURRICULUM This specialized MBA program is comprised of 12 courses, totaling 36 credits. These courses cover essential business topics explicitly tailored to the equine industry. Students will delve into equine law and ethics, learning about the legal and ethical considerations unique to
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THE PLAID HORSE
the horse business. The entrepreneurship course will equip you with the skills to identify opportunities, develop business plans, and navigate the challenges of launching and managing an equine enterprise. Financial management is vital to any business, and our program ensures you gain a solid foundation in this area. Additionally, a two-course practicum experience awaits you, providing hands-on learning opportunities and the chance to tackle real-world equine business challenges. The practicum experience is a program highlight, allowing students to consult with a local equine business to solve a specific business problem. This practical component ensures that you apply your newfound knowledge meaningfully while building connections within the industry. The beauty of the practicum is that it can be tailored to your specific interests, enabling you to explore areas that align with your long-term goals. At St. Andrews, the equine MBA isn’t just a program—it’s a gateway to a universe where your business skills will flourish alongside your love for horses. It’s where Peggy McElveen, director of the equestrian program, champions a legacy of equine excellence. With accolades like the IHSA’s Pioneer and Lifetime Achievement Awards, McElveen guides students
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through self-discovery and professional development. “Our ethos is simple: tailor the education to the student’s vision,” says McElveen. “Whether it’s riding, training, or business management, we’re here to help students discover their potential.” This individual-focused approach is mirrored in the MBA’s structure, where courses are designed to align with your career aspirations, whether owning a training facility, managing a barn, or directing a therapeutic horsemanship program.
A STRONG ONLINE PLATFORM What makes St. Andrews’ MBA specialization truly remarkable is its online platform—education without barriers. No matter where you are, as long as you have Internet access, you can be part of St. Andrews’ esteemed community. “Education should be as boundless as the sky,” said Dr. Freeman, an advocate for accessible education. “Our online MBA in Equine Entrepreneurship breaks down geographical barriers, bringing our expertise to your doorstep.” Despite the digital format, the sense of community is palpable. “We’re a family here,” says Emilee Standridge, an alumna of St. Andrews with degrees in equine business management and an MBA. “The faculty’s commitment extends beyond the classroom. They’re mentors, cheerleaders, and often lifelong friends. The bonds formed here are unbreakable. They’re the kind of connections that champion your strengths and fortify your aspirations.” Venturing into the equine business landscape requires more than just theoretical knowledge—it demands practical
