FAQS

Do I need former experience in the study topic?
Not for the 100 courses. Some of the 101 courses will require the prerequisite of the 100 course in the same topic. This is noted where applicable. All course materials are detailed in what you need to learn to complete the course successfully. Each course is also augmented with live chats to further explain the subject matter. Those interested in learning more than what is offered will also have links to other materials including videos, presentations and papers enhancing the study topic.

Who benefits from taking these courses?
Anyone who is involved in the stewardship of horses. Trainers, owners, riders, equine professionals - the topics offered will only add to the student's knowledge-base about these awesome animals!

How does the course work? Is there attendance required?
Every course is conducted online. Once weekly registered students meet via live chatroom to go over presentation and discuss particulars concerning the week's topic of study. If a student is not able to be present at the live chat he or she can easily go back and read the transcript that is held in our ONLINE "classroom" 24/7. This means anytime, any day, any where a computer is available to the student. If, at the completion of the course, a student feels he or she has missed too much of the class then one may register in the following class for a discounted fee.

Are there grades or credits?
Some of the topics offered are graded but this is entirely up to the individual instructor. We are presently in the process of applying for USEP Certification for all courses that will enable the student who completes a course satsifactorily to then become Nationally Certified and CPUs with some Universities will be assessed.

Is there a course certificate?
Yes, you will receive a certificate of completion at the end of your course if you show satisfactory performance during the studies.

How much time will be involved?
Each online live class runs between 1 to 2 hours a week depending on the Instructor and course of study. The classes are held in the evening (except for homeschooling classes which are held during the daytime) beginning at 8 pm.  A couple of the courses (NHC101 and PPT101) schedule follow-up hands on workshops held in Charlton, MA. The fee for attending these workshops is separate from the tuition fee for the course. The fee for the Workshops is $125 for the day. Auditors $35.

What does it cost?
The fee for each 100 course (6 week Introductory) for 2009/2010 is $99; the fee for 101 courses and above (10 week courses) for 2009/2010 is $175. Registration is completely safely and securely online through PayPal. If you need to send a check then there will be an additional processing fee of $15. Any returned checks will assess additional fee of $25 to the original enrollment fee + the processing fee.

Can I audit a course rather than take an active seat?
Yes, the fee for auditing a course is $75. You will be 'enrolled' in a closed course with access to full materials including that classes live transcripts.

What if I enroll then decide not to take the course? Are there refunds?
Students may withdraw from the course with a full refund less $35 processing fee if we are notified at least 10 days prior to the start of the course. Thereafter you may be responsible for full registration fee if you register but do not attend. Substitutions are welcome and permitted.

What if I need to take the course over again?
There is a $100 reinstatement fee to retake a course or if the course is not completed in its entirety within 30 days after close of said course.

How do the PRIVATE sessions work?
The private sessions work pretty much the same as the classes only you have the dedicated attention from your instructor/coach. Individualized goals and lesson plans will be created just for your particular situation. The package is for 10 sessions each lasting approximately 1 hour. Time and days are arranged privately. Sessions are via instant messaging through the online edu center. (PENZANCE). Support is available during the week via email or telephone when available.

For more information or if you have any questions please contact Gwenyth Santagate, Founder/Instructor at caballus@charter.net or call 508-476-1317.