Diploma of Equine Management

This diploma is a one-year qualification for people who want to work in the horse industry with a business head on their shoulders. You'll study how equine enterprises actually run: feeding and conditioning programmes, stable and property management, breeding and foaling, staff supervision, budgeting, and the compliance side of running a horse business in Australia. Expect practical work alongside the classroom, Marcus Oldham is an agricultural college, so handling, husbandry and farm routines are part of the deal, not an add-on.

Australian diplomas sit at Level 5 on the AQF. This one is delivered over one year, typically across two semesters or trimesters, and is made up of units of study with set credit points. Some units are core; others let you lean towards breeding, racing stables, performance horses or agribusiness. Assessment is a mix of exams, assignments, practical skills checks and a work placement, so you finish with evidence of what you can do, not just what you've read.

The skills you pick up are the ones employers ask about: planning feed and work programmes, spotting lameness or illness early, managing staff rosters, keeping records, costing a season, and dealing with owners, vets and suppliers. You also learn the regulatory side, welfare standards, workplace safety, and the reporting that comes with running horses commercially.

It suits school leavers who want a practical start, people already working in stables or on farms who want the management side formalised, and career changers with horse experience. If you're an international student, you can work up to 48 hours a fortnight while studying, and the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream may be available depending on your circumstances. Check the official page for current unit lists, entry requirements and fees.

• Stable foreman or head groom, racing, thoroughbred breeding, performance and pleasure horse operations across Australia
• Stud farm hand or breeding assistant, thoroughbred and warmblood studs in the Hunter Valley, Victoria and Queensland
• Equine business administrator, riding schools, agistment centres, equine clinics and feed or tack suppliers
• Race day and events staff, clubs, show societies and equestrian centres
• Sales and client liaison, bloodstock sales, equine insurance, nutrition and veterinary supply companies
• Self-employment, managing your own agistment, spelling or training operation