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

Students are evaluated throughout the course to determine eligibility for the Introductory Exam. A minimum of 975 credits is required to qualify.

Additional credits may be earned by repeating modules or through one-on-one training sessions with a Monty Roberts Certified Instructor.

Introductory Exams must be taken within one year of the final day of the Introductory Course. Required training videos must be submitted prior to sitting for the exam.

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