Turn Your Horse Passion Into a Career
Two professional pathways. One nationally recognised qualification. Whether you're drawn to equine dentistry or equine massage therapy, the Diploma of Equine Allied Health gives you the training, credentials, and practical skills to build a real career working with horses.
Dentistry Pathway
Equine Dentistry
If you want a practical trade and a high-demand career pathway, equine dentistry is for you. You will build the safety-first skills, anatomy knowledge, and real-world treatment approach needed to work confidently in the field. Training covers how to assess the mouth, recognise common problems, and deliver professional dental care within scope using modern equipment.
This pathway suits people who:
- Have a passion for horses and confident handling skills
- Are capable of performing physical but precise work
- Enjoy working in a changing environment
- Are comfortable using a computer and learning new software
Massage Pathway
Equine Massage Therapy
If you are drawn to horse wellbeing, movement, and performance, equine massage therapy is a strong pathway. You will learn anatomy, observation, hands-on techniques, and how to work professionally with clients as part of an equine care team. Training focuses on practical skills you can use straight away, with clear boundaries and awareness of referrals.
This pathway suits people who:
- Are patient, detail-oriented, and confident handling horses calmly and safely
- Are comfortable using a computer and learning new software
- Are drawn to horse wellbeing, movement, and rehabilitation
How It Works
How Training Works
The program suits rural and regional students. Year 1 is completed online from home, building a strong theoretical foundation at your own pace. Years 2 and 3 involve intensive practical blocks in Tamworth at AELEC.
After each block you can go home and practise your skills on your own horses and, with permission, friends' and family horses.
Year 1 Online
What You'll Cover in Year 1
Your first year is structured online learning — not self-directed browsing. Units are built around clear learning content, guided instruction, and assessments aligned to industry expectations.
Outcomes
Where This Takes You
Many graduates run their own service as a sole trader or join an existing equine business. Based on outcomes from the previous Cert IV in Equine Dentistry, graduates commonly moved into industry work after completing their training.
Throughout the course you build a portfolio of practical tools you can use from day one — hygiene and safety protocols, client documentation templates, and a horse treatment charting system.
You'll graduate with:
- Confident client communication and professional conduct
- Strong record keeping and documentation
- Consistent safety and hygiene standards
- Clear referral awareness — knowing when to involve vets
Common Questions
Do I need my own horse?
You will need regular access to suitable horses for practice outside training blocks. You will also work on horses during practical blocks at AELEC.
Is this course online?
Year 1 is structured online learning from home. Practical training happens in Tamworth in intensive blocks during Years 2 and 3.
What do I need to be ready?
Confident horse handling skills and strong computer skills for online study and assessment uploads, including video submissions.
Can I apply for HECS-HELP?
Not currently, but ETA is working hard behind the scenes to make this available.
What is the next step?
Request your information pack and follow the application process.