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Human Services Technology/Animal Assisted Interactions

Curriculum Description

Animal-Assisted Interaction involves therapeutic horsemanship. Horses can provide various therapeutic benefits for people. If you are interested in horses and helping people, this concentration may be for you. 

The Human Services Technology/Animal Assisted Interactions concentration prepares individuals for entry level positions in service organizations providing animal interactions. The curriculum prepares students to incorporate specially-selected animals in goal-directed interactions to mental/physical disabilities, social, emotional, and/or cognitive functioning in people. Course work includes a history of the field of animal interventions, scientific evidence regarding the benefits of interactions, theoretical models, application of the human-animal bond and current trends. Students gain skills in measurement methodology and in animal handling and management. Graduates should qualify for employment in mental health, physical disabilities, youth services, social services, rehabilitation, correction, elder, and educational agencies. Upon completion of the degree, students may be eligible for certification through national or international organizations.

Graduates will be able to:

  • Apply knowledge of disabilities and other human services related issues to an Equine Assisted Activities and Therapy (EAAT) setting.
  • Conduct animal-assisted therapeutic sessions within professional guidelines.
  • Interpret and respond to equine behaviors and health related to Equine Assisted Activities and Therapy (EAAT).
  • Examine careers in therapeutic horsemanship.

After Graduation

Career Opportunities:

Graduates with the concentration in Animal Assisted Interaction may be able to find work with therapists and non-profit equine facilities.

Contact for information

Health and Public Services
Health and Public Services
Office: 828-395-1668
Department Directory

Office hours

8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Subject to change depending on availability.

Kimberly Snyder
Human Services Technology Instructor
ksnyder@isothermal.edu
828-395-4165