The internet has made access to educational material easier than ever. A plethora of university and government-maintained websites offer high-quality free and paid learning opportunities. Often these programs are underwritten by the university or government with small fees or even provided for free. These organizations have a standard for the level of information offered. Presenters and course designers are experts in their fields, making these online platforms a trusted source of information.

Here’s a look at six university and government-produced resources:

1. Cornell Equine Seminar Series: Monthly talks by equine experts focus on important equine health and management topics. These are free and open to anyone.
2. University of Guelph The Horse Portal: These online health and welfare training programs are flexible learning opportunities ranging from webinars to short courses and offering 12-week training modules. Topics range from first aid and planning for a fire to horse behavior, gut health and more.
3. Rutgers Cooperative Extension Program: The Center’s website includes popular features such as the “Ask the Expert” page, archived webinars and podcasts, and virtual tours brimming with valuable information. “Equine Science 4 Kids” is an online classroom featuring games, interactive activities, and a little horseplay for children of all ages.
4. Michigan State University My Horse University: There are more than 1,000 courses available on trending topics such as biosecurity, breeding and nutrition. One offering is the Equine Business Course. For $150, this 15-week course helps people learn the basics about accounting systems, tax law, business plans and more. In-person options are also typically available.
5. Small Business Administration: The SBA has several online learning opportunities designed to help small businesses get established or grow. The digital learning platform focuses on entrepreneurial best practices and available financing.
6. SCORE: This 501(c)(3) nonprofit is supported by more than 10,000 volunteers. The organization partners with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and offers access to courses on-demand and live and recorded webinars.

Editor’s note: Our parent company, Equine Network LLC, has several brands that offer online educational membership platforms. Check out these subscription video on demand (SVOD) portals: DressageTodayOnDemand, Horse&RiderOnDemand, Roping.com and EventingTraining.com.