Farrier School
Montana State University Farrier School offers an eleven-week program designed specifically for those who wish to pursue careers as farriers. This professional course provides students with the opportunity to obtain a solid background in the field of farrier science through the application of sound principles in a practical hands-on setting. Students will have the opportunity to obtain the knowledge and develop the skills necessary to establish their own practice, qualify for licensing at major race tracks, and prepare for the American Farrier Association Certification exam. Further study in an advanced class is also offered. The Animal and Range Sciences Department at Montana State University sponsors the Farrier Program. The Farrier School, which was established in 1970, receives no state funding and is supported entirely with student fees.
Photo by Kelly Gorham
Making the Shoe Fit, MSU's acclaimed farrier school forges international reputation;
Mountains and Minds Magazine - Spring 2008 Issue, story by Suzi Taylor
Instructor
Tom Wolfe is the instructor in charge of the MSU Farrier School. Tom has been a full-time professional farrier since 1971, working with all breeds and types of horses. Prior to his appointment at MSU, Tom practiced in Albuquerque, New Mexico where he was licensed with the New Mexico State Racing Commission as a race plater and was the farrier for the Albuquerque Police Department Horse Patrol. Tom has been the official farrier for many western, hunter-jumper, Arabian, and all-breed horseshows. Tom is a member of the American Farrier Association and has served for three years on that organization's executive committee. In addition, he is certified with the A.F.A. as a journeyman farrier. Tom's educational background includes a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of New Mexico as well as completing the Advanced Farrier Science curriculum at New Mexico State University. Tom's sound technical background, practical experience, and national reputation and teaching aptitude creates a strong MSU farrier program.
Professional Course
Winter 2012: January 2-March 14, 2012 (FULL)
Spring 2012: March 19-June 1, 2012 (Accepting Applications)
Fall 2012: September 10-November 21, 2012 (Accepting Applications)
Professional Course Application
HSS Application Winter 2012 to Fall 2012 new dates
Photos by Kelly Gorham
- 8 hours daily; 11 weeks
- Offered Fall, Winter, Spring
- Sponsor: Animal & Range Sciences Department
- Objective: Preparation for career as professional horseshoer
- Maximum enrollment: 12
- Financial Aid for Students: Applicants who need financial
assistance should contact the following offices for
eligibility:
- Veterans Office (GI Bill)
- Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
- Local Job Service
- SALLIEMAE.com
- Rural Employment Opportunites (for Montana Residents) 1-800-546-1140
Note: this school is not certified for Guaranteed Student Loans (GSL), the Pell Grant, or similar types of federal student loans, due to its non-credit status.
Short Courses
Photo by Kelly Gorham
Blacksmithing Course - December 14-17, 2011 APPLICATION
- Purpose:
- Introduce participants to basic blacksmithing techniques including drawing, upsetting, twisting, punching and riveting.
- Course Content
- Hands on learning. Applying techniques to projects that can be completed in the allotted class time.
- Class fee $400 which includes use of forges, anvils, speciality tools, and materials.
- Class size is limited to 10 participants.
For more information
To receive applications and additional information about either the Professional Horseshoeing Course or the Horseshoeing Short Courses please contact:
Susan Cooper
susan.cooper1@montana.edu
or call 406-994-3721
or write Department of Animal & Range Sciences
PO Box 172900, MSU-Bozeman, Bozeman, MT 59717-2900
Photos by Sandy Voegeli
Tom Wolfe demonstrating skills for class.
