Much as civilization has advanced from biology to computer engineering in all scientific endeavors, farriery has evolved from the days when the village blacksmith has been called upon to put shoes on horses to this day when farriery involves so much more than much shoeing a horse. 

There is a list of programs you can choose from, such as; Equine anatomy, Trimming and keg shoeing, Blacksmithing, Horse handling, Professional practice, Welding, Professional practice, Communications, and personnel management. 

The Practical Farrier Course is designed to teach a professional farrier to become an adult. In this course, you will be taught anatomy, shoeing theory, corrective shoeing techniques, correction of gait faults, therapeutic shoeing techniques, tools, and handmade horseshoe forging, and running a successful business.

What’s eligibility for the Farrier course?

To become a Farrier, you have to be strong physically and have good practical skills. You must also interact well with owners and vets of horses. You need to be registered with the Farriers ' Registration Council to operate as a farrier. The only way to enroll is to complete an Approved Training Farrier (ATF) four-year apprenticeship.

 Farrier is a skilled and educated specialist in the equine industry: horse hoof care, trimming, and shoeing applications. In addition, a Farrier is also a key professional in maintaining equine hoof health and performance through any of the following: horseshoe trimming, making or altering, applying pads, acrylics, or supporting materials.

To become a professional, one must practice being a farrier for at least two (2) years and continue to earn 24 CE credits approved by AAPF / CAPF per year. In addition, an AF is an equine industry specialist who is experienced and skilled in handling, trimming, shoeing, and horse hooves safety. 

The AF will be a permanent member in good standing of Registered Farriers ' American & Canadian Associations. Many farmers work as apprentices for a couple of years before they strike out alone. The training helps the apprentice to fine-tune their skills when finding advice and help from an experienced professional.

Admission Requirements

• 50% or better in English Language Arts 30-1 or 30-2
• 50% or better in Math 20-1 or 20-2
• 50% or better in one of Biology 20 OR Chemistry 20 OR Science 20
• Meet the English Language Proficiency Requirement (completed at minimum three years of formal education taught entirely in English or provide the results of a recognized English Language Proficiency exam)
• There is a strong demand for this program; therefore, applicants should pay close attention to the admission requirements and submit documentation promptly.

Academic Upgrading and High School Applicants:
Applicants currently in high school or completing academic upgrading must submit proof of enrollment and any available interim/midterm marks. Final marks must be submitted within one month following the completion of the course(s) and no later than one month before the program start date.

Alternate Admission Option:
Alternate Admission status may be offered to applicants who have not completed one of the academic admission requirements. To be considered under Alternate Admission Status, applicants will be asked to provide the following:

1. (Required) Transcript(s) showing any completed high school and post-secondary courses
2. (Required) Letter of Introduction and Intent, outlining the following:
3. Introduce yourself
4. Indicate why you wish to enroll in the program
5. Elaborate on your career goals
6. Detail your experience relevant to this program and the industry
7. (Required) A resume of your work history, extracurricular activities, volunteer service, etc. for the last five years
8. (Optional) Include copies of any tickets and certificates you currently hold (e.g., first aid, safety tickets, etc.)
9. (Optional) Letter(s) of reference from current or past employers/coaches/etc. (maximum of two letters)

Submitting Alternate Admission material does not guarantee admission

Essential skills you need to become a Farrier.

There are some prerequisites for becoming a successful farrier—working well with others to be systematic. Pay attention to details of physical skills such as balance, agility, dexterity and excellent verbal communication skills, thought and reasoning skills, the ability to work with your composure and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations, the ability to work well with your hands to perform basic computer tasks.

Scope of Farrier Science

A degree in Equine Studies, Equine Studies, or Equine Science can give rise to many career opportunities related to horses. Farriers can work in different conditions, from the field to the racetrack, with various breeds. Most of today's farmers are self-employed. 

The career provides a very flexible schedule, and some farriers choose to ride the racing or show circuits while horses compete across the world. In addition to shoeing duties, you can also choose to work only part-time and conduct horse training, vanning, or breeding operations as a farrier. You can also consult veterinarians and create special shoes or prosthetics to support horses with serious foot problems.

Hocking College

Hocking College in the United States offers one of just a few farrier engineering associate degree programs. The curriculum of Farrier Science and Business provides a unique blend of farrier and business management skills. You can have two worlds of the best-working on horses and owning your own company.

Olds College's farrier

The certificate program for Farrier Science is one of a kind. Olds College's farrier program has a fully equipped, state-of-the-art farrier lab that American Farrier Association examiners have referred to as the best seen to date. 

The farrier facility is fitted with 12 gas forges and 4 coal forges, a computer and projector lab, and a 16-foot business field trip laboratory truck. Specific clinics with experts and representatives of companies introduce students to new materials and techniques for applications such as performance or restoration.

Sheridan College’s Farrier Science

Would you like to deal with horses? The Farrier Science Certification from Sheridan College provides students with hands-on, real-world learning. You'll learn from knowledgeable instructors and industry-leading experts to train you for a career with horses as a farrier. You will gain knowledge and skills in the current techniques needed to maintain horse hoof and leg safety and troubleshoot standard foot and shoe problems in the Farrier Science program. You will practice horseshoeing and develop a basic understanding of horse anatomy and physiology, training you as a farrier at the entrance stage.

Casey & Son Horseshoeing School

Suppose you join this college, an exclusive advantage of seeing the horse on the move. Before, during, and after the boot. The mission is to train and educate farmers, offering the highest level of knowledge and skills. They are the only facility that provides a Current Farriers Business Management Clinic and a Farrier Prospects Introduction.

Montana State University Farrier School

It offers a 16-week program specifically tailored for those wishing to pursue careers as farriers. This technical course allows students to develop a solid background in farrier science by applying sound concepts in a natural, hands-on environment. Students will have the opportunity to acquire the expertise and develop the necessary skills to set up their practice, apply for licensing on significant race tracks, and train for the American Farrier Association Certification exam.

Farriers' National Research Center & School

The National Research Center for Farriers, Inc. is a private organization owned by responsible horse owners and farmers. The FNRC aims to identify shoeing techniques, products, and inventions that will preserve the noise of horses. Research is the cornerstone of activities for equine nutrition. Students from Farrier have a chance to learn from many teachers. The training is collected using technical equipment, modern methods, and our inventions from the study validated methods and documented evidence of the work performed at the Center.