Farrier Science Diploma
Application Information for Fall 2012
Olds College is now offering a two year Farrier Science diploma program! Students will be completing courses on-campus from October to April in Welding, Trimming and Keg Shoeing, Blacksmithing, Recordkeeping, Equine Anatomy, Horse Handling and Horseshoeing. A 5 month Directed Field Study is then completed May through September. Back on-campus October through April will include courses in Performance Shoeing, Farrier Welding, Advanced Forging, Advanced Therapeutic and Corrective Horseshoeing and Small Business Planning and Management. The program is then completed with a 3 month Directed Field Study.
APPLICATION PROCESS
- Submit an application on-line (NOTE: applications for the Fall open on November 1, 2011).
- Applicants must submit two Reference Evaluation Forms and an Applicant Questionnaire on or before March 1, 2012. These forms will be mailed upon application and are available onlineThese forms are specific to each academic year so you must have the appropriately dated form.
- All documentation (transcripts/timetable/proof of enrolment, Reference Evaluation Forms and Applicant Questionnaire) must then be submitted to Olds College on or before March 1, 2012 to remain eligible for the program
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
- Be 18 years of age or older
- 50% or better in English Language Arts 20-1 or 20-2
- 50% or better in Pure or Applied Math 20
- 50% or better in Biology 20
- Submit two Reference Evaluation Forms
- Submit an Applicant Questionnaire
- Complete the On-Campus Interview and Practical Testing
Applicants currently in grade 12 or academic upgrading must submit:
- a current high school transcript showing all completed courses and final marks on or before March 1, 2012
- proof of enrolment (a timetable, receipt of payment or letter from institution/instructor) in any required courses that are not yet completed with any available marks on or before March 1, 2012
- All final marks are then required to be submitted one month prior to the program start date
APPLICANT QUESTIONNAIRE
The applicant is required to complete the Applicant Questionnaire and submit to Olds College on or before March 1, 2012.
REFERENCE EVALUATION FORMS
The applicant is required to submit TWO Reference Evaluation Forms to Olds College on or before March 1, 2012. The most desirable references come from employers and those people who are familiar with your equine related experience.
ON-CAMPUS INTERVIEW AND PRACTICAL TEST
Applicants with the above information completed and submitted by the deadline of March 1, 2012 will be pre-screened and those meeting the minimum requirements will be invited to Olds College for an interview and practical test in mid to late April 2012 (specific dates will be available in the fall). Please note that not all applicants may be invited for the interview and practical test. The on-campus interview and practical test consists of:
- A verbal interview
- The applicant demonstrating their knowledge of the farrier profession
- The applicant demonstrating their experience with horses to adequately cope with the course material offered. Applicants will handle a horse and respond to questions regarding conformation, disposition, and soundness
- The applicant demonstrating competency for handling tools
Applicants will then be notified of their admission status by mid May 2012.
FINAL SELECTIONS
The Final selections for the Farrier Science program will be based on:
- Academic admission requirements
- Applicant Questionnaire
- On-Campus Interview and Practical Testing
IMPORTANT NOTES
- The capacity in the Farrier Science program is 16 students. Past experience indicates a strong demand for this program; therefore, prospective students should pay close attention to the application requirements and timelines.
- Alternate Admission Status may apply to students that have not completed one or more of the above academic admission requirements. To apply under Alternate Admission Status you must submit a transcript(s) showing any completed high school and post-secondary courses and a statement in support of your application outlining aspects of your background and experience that might have prepared you for the program. Documents such as a resume, letters of reference from previous educators or employers, and/or a portfolio of related academic/project work must be included with your application. The Program Coordinator and the Admission Office will review your application.
- Students should have a valid driver’s license
- A Tool List will be provided at the on-campus interview and practical test. The program staff will assist admitted students to ensure they purchase the appropriate tools and supplies.
- An Alberta High School Diploma or equivalent is recommended but not required
- It is highly encouraged to take the time to investigate the Farrier profession and to job shadow or work with a Farrier to increase your knowledge and understanding of the industry. This will also help prepare applicants for the on-campus interview and practical test.
IF YOU ARE OFFERED A SEAT
A seat will be held for you on the condition that you meet any outstanding academic requirements and submit a final transcript(s) one month prior to the program start date and that you forward a $500.00 tuition deposit as per your admission letter.



