Course Structure
The Monty Roberts Introductory Course of Horsemanship is a foundational program designed to establish non-violent communication between horse and human. The course guides students through essential principles of trust, observation, and equine psychology, forming the groundwork for safe, effective, and humane horsemanship.
The Introductory Course is currently taught as a complete course block consisting of six required modules. Individual module options are also available. All modules are mandatory and must be completed to qualify for the Introductory Exam.
Monty Roberts Introductory Course of Horsemanship — Required Modules
The Introductory Course is made up of six core modules that build progressively upon one another. Each module combines theory with hands-on application to support confident, trust-based training.
Module 1: Learn Monty’s Observation Skills Developed from His Lifetime of Studying Horses
(200 Credits)
Start your journey by learning the basics of handling, approaching, and observing horses. Build awareness of your body language and how to be safe around horses. Understand how horses perceive the world and how to create a calm and respectful first connection. Recognize the Language of “Equus” and how horses talk through gestures and body language.
Module 2: Structuring Successful and Safe Horse Training Sessions
(200 Credits)
Learn Monty Roberts' world-renowned method of communication based on “Equus,” the language of the horse. Understand the use of Monty’s famous Dually Halter and how it can help you educate your horse. Learn how horses learn and how to set your horse up for success by using your own body language supportively. Covers learning theories, how to structure lessons, and how to meet your horse’s needs.
Module 3: Safely Prepare Horses for Real-Life Situations
(200 Credits)
Help horses gain confidence around new stimuli and motivate them to respond again when they lost their sensitivity. This module teaches timing and reinforcement techniques. Includes exposing horses to objects, sounds, and situations in small steps to gain their trust using respectful methods that promote curiosity over fear.
Module 4: Join-Up® — Read Horse Behavior and Adjust Accordingly
(200 Credits)
Students experience Monty Roberts’ world-renowned Join-Up® process, learning how to read horse behavior accurately and adjust their approach to create a willing, trust-based partnership. ild a voluntary partnership based on trust, without force or fear. This module teaches the impact of your body language, how to position yourself, the use of your intention, and being present with your horse.
Module 5: Long Lining with the Use of Body Language
(300 Credits)
Get introduced to long lining with a soft connection and clear intention. Learn how to guide the horse from the ground using feel, timing, and coordination. A foundation for future riding and communication. This module teaches the beginning of using long lining as a multifunctional tool to promote balance, softness, fitness, motivation, and cooperation.
Module 6: Effective Trailer Loading the Gentle Way
(200 Credits)
Develop strategies for safe and stress-free trailer loading using the Dually Halter and your knowledge of body language. Learn how leadership, preparation, and timing create positive experiences for your horse without force or struggle. This module teaches how to set up scenarios to support your horse, break lessons into small steps, and achieve loading a willing horse.
Total Credits in the Introductory Course: 1,300 credits
Progress Tracking & Credits
This course is part of the updated MRILC Instructor Certification pathway, developed following the April 2024 and May 2025 Instructor Meetings in collaboration with instructors and MRILC management.
How Credits Work
Students earn credits through graded module performance and required assignments. Credits determine eligibility for exams and progression.
Introductory Exam Eligibility
To qualify for the Introductory Exam, students must:
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Earn a minimum of 975 credits
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Submit 5 LMS videos demonstrating proficiency in:
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Balance Line & Driving Position
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Line Handling Skills
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Join-Up Invitation
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Outside Turns
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A Complete Long Line Session
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Each video is reviewed by your instructor.
Written Exam
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Given at the end of the final Introductory module
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Study materials are provided upon enrollment
Timing Requirement
Students must take their exam within one year of completing the final module.
After 12 months, students must:
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Retake the course modules
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Re-earn required credits
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Resubmit required LMS videos
Only then will they be eligible to sit for the exam again.
If a student does not earn sufficient credits, they may submit additional instructor-requested LMS videos (up to 20 credits per video), practice with Certified Instructors, or complete one-on-one training sessions to earn additional credits.
Click here to view the Full Instructor Certification Pathway & FAQ
Monty Roberts Online University
Enrollment includes a three-month subscription to Monty Roberts’ Online University, supporting continued learning and reinforcement of Monty’s methods. Current Online University members will have their subscriptions extended at the end of the course.
Booking Information
After reserving your place, a Monty Roberts Certified Instructor will contact you to confirm enrollment, provide required paperwork, and answer any questions regarding participation.
Accommodations: Not provided onsite; however, we partner with hotels in Solvang and Buellton. Please refer to the Transportation & Accommodation Worksheet for details.
Contact
Monty Roberts International Learning Center
P.O. Box 1700
Solvang, CA 93464
Phone: 949-632-1856
Fax: 805-688-9709
Email: instructor@montyroberts.com