OUR PROGRAMS
Practical Farrier Program
This 2-week program provides a foundational understanding of the essential skills in horse shoeing and trimming, ideal for horse owners and equestrians who wish to gain hands-on knowledge in maintaining their own horses’ hooves. Designed to build confidence in performing basic farrier tasks, this course covers everything from properly trimming hooves to addressing immediate needs, such as pulling a sprung shoe or replacing a lost shoe. By completing this program, students will acquire practical skills to address minor hoof care issues without needing to call a farrier for every concern.
In addition to practical skills, this program offers valuable insights into farrier techniques and terminology. This knowledge is beneficial not only for horse owners but also for those involved in horse training, buying, or managing equestrian facilities. Understanding the shoeing and trimming process allows participants to make more informed decisions when evaluating horse soundness, enhancing their eye for hoof and leg structure—vital when buying or training horses. Graduates of this program will also improve their ability to communicate effectively with their farrier, enabling them to discuss their horse’s hoof needs with greater clarity and confidence.
Professional Farrier Program
This program is built for individuals who want to turn farrier work into a rewarding career. Over 10 intensive weeks, students gain the essential skills, knowledge, and hands-on experience needed to succeed in the farrier industry or even start their own farrier business. The curriculum blends traditional farriery techniques with modern, efficient methods, creating a well-rounded and practical learning experience that prepares students for real-world challenges.
Throughout the course, students are evaluated through written exams, forging projects, and practical assessments. They learn to properly trim, shape, and fit both pre-manufactured and handmade shoes to horses, gaining the craftsmanship needed to handle a variety of hoof care needs. The program’s focus on hands-on learning allows students to gain confidence in their skills and develop the problem-solving abilities necessary for a successful career in farriery.
Upon meeting all program requirements, graduates earn the Professional Farrier Certification from the Oregon Farrier School (OFS), a credential that signifies their readiness for the industry. The final exam is designed to resemble the American Farrier’s Association (AFA) Farrier Classification Exam, providing excellent preparation for those who wish to pursue AFA certification. For those looking to deepen their farrier knowledge for personal use, this program also provides a strong foundation in hoof care and shoeing essentials.
Advanced Farrier Program
This 10-week Advanced Farrier Program is designed for those seeking to build on their foundational skills from the prerequisite 10-week Professional Farrier Program or an equivalent course. This advanced course equips students with the expertise to tackle complex farrier cases and provides an in-depth understanding of advanced farrier science. Throughout the program, students will deepen their knowledge of lameness and gain hands-on experience with therapeutic and corrective techniques, preparing them to address specific needs in horses used for competition or specialized performance.
The curriculum includes graded assignments such as written exams, advanced forging projects, and practical assessments. Students will refine their skills in shaping, fitting, and crafting shoes tailored to discipline-specific requirements. This hands-on training allows them to develop the problem-solving skills and technical knowledge needed to manage a wide range of hoof care challenges, enhancing their capability to deliver specialized farrier care with confidence.
Upon successfully completing the program and meeting all standards, students will receive a certificate of completion. The final examination mirrors the AFA Certified Farrier Exam, providing graduates with strong preparation for this industry-standard assessment. Additionally, graduates will be well-equipped to take the written portion of the AFA Certified Journeyman Farrier Exam, positioning them for continued advancement in their farrier careers.
Tuition and Fees
Practical Farrier Program
(2 WEEK COURSE)
Application: $50
Registration: $250
Books: $110
Tools: (Rental included)
Tuition:$3,500
TOTAL: $3,910
Professional Farrier Program
(10 WEEK COURSE)
Application: $50
Registration: $250
Books: $160
Tools*: $500 – $2,750
Tuition:$10,000
TOTAL: $10,810 – $13,160
Professional + Advanced Farrier Program
(20 WEEK COURSE)
Application: $50
Registration: $250
Books: $160
Tools*: $500 – $2,750
Tuition:$17,50
TOTAL: $18,310 – $20,660
Advanced Farrier Program
(10 WEEK COURSE)
Application: $50
Registration: $250
Books: TDB
Tuition: $8,500
TOTAL: $8,500
Financial Assistance is available! Contact us for more information
Methods
As we dig into the farrier science, students find that the straight forward and basic principles that we break trimming and shoeing down into, make it easy for them to learn while at school and remember after graduation. The programs are designed to get students under as many horses as possible.
Types of horses that OFS has to offer experience on are: ponies, donkeys, drafts, miniatures, thoroughbreds, Arabians, Morgans, quarter horses, paints, warm bloods, PMUs, and horses that are used for many disciplines, inlcluding but not limited to: reining, cutting, roping, jumping, dressage, vaulting, pleasure, and trail.
TESTIMONIALS
What Our Students Say
I highly recommend this school,the owner, instructors and all involved were so professional,knowledgeable and patient,was hands on right away,I went to see what I could do to improve my knowledge,little did I know it would would change my ways and make my business even stronger than I thought was possible,best decision I have ever made in business,my confidence level has grown and could not be happier thanks to Oregon Farrier School
Nino toll
Graduate of Oregon Farrier School
As a graduate from Oregon Farrier School I must say that this was a excellent school with very great instructors. Even after school Butch still helps me out with questions that I have and they really want to see their students succeed. I highly recommend Oregon Farrier School if you’re wanting to find a place to learn the trade!
Hahots Shabala
Graduate of Oregon Farrier School
Learn More!
Lets us know what courses interest you! We are here to answer any questions you may have, or help you schedule a tour of our facility. You may also take some time to research our excellent faculty.