Buying a horse is a big challenge. Choosing a mount that doesn't fit your needs, skill level or intended use can be painful emotionally, financially and even physically. To give would-be horse owners information that will enable them to make decisions that will lead to years of equine enjoyment, Michigan State University's (MSU's) My Horse University has launched a new online course called "Horse Selection and Evaluation."

In this self-paced course, participants will discover a wealth of resources for learning about the factors that need to be taken into account to make a sound horse purchase decision. “It can be too easy to fall in love with a horse that is a pretty color or has a sweet face, but knowing how skeletal structure and balance correspond to movement and soundness will help you make the best decision about the performance potential of a horse,” said Christine Skelly, MSU Extension Equine Specialist and lead instructor. "Both you and your selection will be much happier in the end."

Course topics include: horse breeds and their uses, evaluating conformation, and identifying colors, markings and brands, or tattoos. The course content also explores suggestions for purchasing a horse and an overview of the horse ownership experience. It includes a variety of pictures, illustrations, videos and learning activities.

Participants can work on the course whenever and wherever it is convenient. They have up to six months to complete all the units to earn a certificate of completion.

My Horse University also offers an online course on horse behavior and welfare. Stay tuned for upcoming courses on equine nutrition, horse health, reproduction and exercise physiology.

Registration for the selection and evaluation course is $200. Please use discount code USEF1 at checkout to receive a 10% discount.

My Horse University is a national online program for horse enthusiasts based at Michigan State University (MSU), one of the top U.S. universities in equine science and management. Founded by MSU’s Department of Animal Science, MSU Extension, and MSU Global, this program offers equine education courses and resources that can be tailored to achieve horse management goals.

To enroll or learn more, visit www.myhorseuniversity.com.