Arkansas State University Opened Teaching Barn

The new facility provides veterinary students with hands-on equine training in Jonesboro.

Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Veterinary Medicine

Arkansas State University Opened Teaching Barn

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Arkansas State University has unveiled a new teaching barn to support its growing veterinary program. The facility serves students who joined the university for its inaugural veterinary class this fall.

Why it matters

The new barn offers essential hands-on experience with live animals, which is a critical component of professional veterinary education. This resource allows students to refine their skills in a controlled, specialized environment.

The teaching barn required an investment of nearly $1 million to complete. The facility is specifically designed to facilitate live animal equine skills training for the new program.

The players

Arkansas State University

This public research university is located in Jonesboro and recently expanded its academic offerings to include veterinary medicine.

The details

Students utilize the barn to perform physical examinations, practice horse restraint, and conduct ultrasound procedures. This space integrates directly into the curriculum for the university's first class of veterinary students.

Fall 2026: The university welcomed its first class of veterinary students.

Culture Shift

The university's expansion into veterinary medicine reflects a broader movement to increase rural and large-animal veterinary resources within the state. This development aligns with the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education accreditation standards for clinical facilities.

Students entering the veterinary field in the area now have access to specialized infrastructure for equine health training. This facility supports the development of local medical expertise by providing students with necessary equipment for clinical practice.

The takeaway

Hands-on experience with large animals remains the most important factor in the success of veterinary students. Investing in dedicated laboratory space ensures that the next generation of veterinarians is prepared for complex clinical scenarios.