Elevate everything: Compassion, performance, Connection.
R+ University Certification
with Shawna Karrasch Equine
Mastery Certification
Mastery Certification:
This is for those who plan to excel in both the science and the practical application of positive reinforcement.
Please see more complete details below.
Performance Certification
Performance Certification:
Available starting 2026
For those who have completed the mastery certification and interested in advancing the performance horse/rider.
Why R+ University Certification?
The Shawna Karrasch Equine R+ University certification program in positive reinforcement training is designed for individuals passionate about equine behavior and welfare, aiming to become skilled professionals in the equestrian industry. This comprehensive curriculum encompasses theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and ethical practices, equipping participants with the tools needed to effectively utilize positive reinforcement methods in horse care and training.
Who is this for?
This certification is geared toward the aspiring equine professional or R+ enthusiast who is dedicated to furthering their expertise. Our goal is not just proficiency and understanding of R+ training, but mastery so that it can be taken to any discipline or facet of equine training.
Curriculum Components:
What Can You Expect By Completing This Certification:
1) Course Learning- Begin by mastering the fundamentals of positive reinforcement through the required coursework via the SKE membership. This will provide you with a solid understanding of the principles of operant conditioning and the impact of positive reinforcement on equine behavior. Further, enhance your knowledge in the scientific study of animal learning, behavior modification, the emotional state, and the importance of neuroscience in these contexts.
2) Monthly Meetups- Participate in exclusive monthly online meetings that will cover various topics and provide opportunity for questions and answers.
3) Private Coaching- Participate in one on one meetings with Shawna and Jessie. These consultations will help you to strengthen your desired area of focus.
4) Marketing Assistance- We will help you to formulate a strategic plan for achieving your goals. A thriving career necessitates a comprehensive grasp of marketing competencies. We will offer guidance tailored to your unique niche and area of focus, ensuring your path to success is both informed and targeted if your goals are utilizing this training as a career.
5) Case Studies- Case studies provide an excellent opportunity to assess your progress. Throughout the year-long certification program, we will assist you in enhancing your R+ skills through six case studies of your choice. Four of these will focus on the improvement of the equine, while two will emphasize teaching individuals how to effectively work with horses.
6) Developing Online Materials- We will provide guidance in developing your own course and curriculum in a subject area of your choice. This will be made available to SKE members, allowing for valuable feedback and increasing your visibility within a supportive R+ community. Once the curriculum is finalized, we will assist you in bringing it to market for the general public, should you wish to pursue that opportunity.
7) Attending SKE Clinics- Clinics and demos are an outstanding source of education and exposure. During the certification process, we would like to invite you as part of our team, to any of our scheduled events.
8) In-Person Evaluation- From June 8-14 of 2025 (6 months into the certification process), we will be holding an in-person week-long gathering for all participants. This is an important opportunity for camaraderie and team development, as well as a chance to practice teaching and problem solving with a variety of horses, donkeys, and minis. This will be hosted by Sweet Serenity Stables in Salem, CT. This facility is the perfect venue for this fun-filled week. Additionally, we plan to visit Mystic Aquarium and All Bright Canines to observe R+ with other species. During the week, we will also be given a unique overview of body work and biomechanics (as it applies to R+) by certified canine and equine body worker, Rebecca Maurice.
9) Support and Collaboration- It will be our pleasure to endorse you as a professional certified Shawna Karrasch Equine instructor. We will feature you on our website and social media platforms as part of our team and as a vital resource to help grow solid R+ education. Our focus is to collaborate with you on a long-term basis so that you have the support needed to further this movement.
10) Continuing Education Units- Various CEU's will be available upon completion of this certification-- to be announced.
11) Private Access Group/Community- You will have access to a private group in the SKE membership for certification participants to share ideas with each and to support each other.
12) Optional Excursion/Learning Opportunity- At the conclusion of certification (January 2026), we will be offering the opportunity to learn more about other species in addition to equines at Xcaret Parks in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Xcaret has been a professional venue for SKE. This unique opportunity allows us the chance to take a look into implementing positive reinforcement with not only horses, but other animals such as sting ray, dolphins, sharks, flamingos, free-flight eagles and macaws, manatees all in an extraordinarily beautiful location. Xcaret and Xel-Há Parks are focused on conservation and sustainability in all they do.
Equine Psychology and Behavior:
We will delve into the study of equine behavior, communication, and social structures and how this will apply to your learners.
We will discuss techniques to help assess individual horse traits and learning styles (such as addressing complex issues associated with the shut-down horse, over-exuberant horse or horses who have dealt with trauma.
Many horses come with traumatic experiences as part of their history. Sometimes humans may not perceive it as traumatic as the horse, so we have to properly asses their body language, facial expressions, as well their resulting behavior.
Training Techniques:
Develop hands-on training techniques in various positive reinforcement scenarios. This will include how to assess an individual horse's behavior in order to address ongoing challenges and to shape behavior accordingly.
Since there are no specific recipes and every horse is unique, we will help you learn to create personalized training plans tailored to each horse and their specific needs. The case studies will be an invaluable tool as you progress through this certification and beyond.
Ethics and Welfare:
We will focus on recognizing the importance of humane training practices and the welfare of the horse by implementing LIMA ethical training practices (Least Intrusive Minimally Aversive).
LIMA emphasizes the importance of trainers and behavior consultants being educated and skilled to ensure the least intrusive techniques are employed. LIMA advocates for the exclusive use of positive reinforcement as the primary method for teaching and behavior change, as it is linked to lower levels of aggression and fear in learners. Consultants must systematically identify target behaviors and their underlying motivations while continually assessing the learner's experience to avoid bias. Additionally, LIMA aims to prevent the abuses associated with improper punishment and restrictive management, which can lead to negative outcomes for both animals and their handlers.
As we raise the awareness of the efficacy of positive reinforcement, we understand this is a process that takes time for people to embrace this relatively new way of thinking.
Practical Application:
Case studies will provide opportunities to work directly with horses in supervised environments, applying learned techniques in real-world scenarios in addition to assessing current management practices.
Case studies and problem-solving sessions help to address common behavioral challenges using positive reinforcement. Our goal is for participants to be able to refine their R+ skills both in terms of teaching horses as well as teaching people. The goal is to create confidence while learning to apply these principles in a variety of real life situations.
Career Development and Marketing:
Since the transition from marine mammals to equids, we have been working to raise the awareness of positive reinforcement with horses. We feel strongly that we should not be in competition with one another, but to support and embrace each other in order for it to effectively grow. We will be guiding you as you build a successful career in the R+ equine industry, including networking, marketing and social media.
We will be offering you the use of our platforms to raise participant profile through affiliation and standing apart as having the highest standards in the positive reinforcement training space.
Teaching horses with R+ proficiently is a vital part of this certification, but we also feel it is imperative to develop skills to get the word out to prospective clients. This includes learning how to address skeptics or those beginning to dabble in R+ in a constructive, non-confrontational way. Having quality marketing support is imperative to your professional success.
Value of the Certification:
Professional Recognition:
Our reputation and body of work are highly regarded within the equine industry, reflecting our expertise and unwavering commitment to ethical training practices. Graduates will distinguish themselves as exemplary professionals in a rapidly evolving sector of the equine field.
We are recognized for our innovative application of positive reinforcement, fostering a transformative mindset among our trainees. Our approach prioritizes education over judgment or criticism, extending the same principles to our interactions with horses.
Our Credentials:
Shawna Karrasch-
Ten years working as trainer with marine mammals at Sea World San Diego
Articles for: Practical Horseman, Dressage Today, Chronicle of the Horse, Horse and Rider
Appearances for: Bud Sports and ESPN
Numerous guest appearances on podcasts and news broadcasts
Recurring guest speaker for Equine Behavior and Advanced Equine Behavior Courses for University of Guelph
Taught lectures for University of North Carolina, Colorado State University, and University Nevada Reno.
Taught short course for Cazenovia College
Demo for Pony Club at their millennial event in Toronto
Demo for USET for their Festival of Champions
Speaker at KWPN USA Conference
Speaker at Hanoverian Society Conference
Keynote speaker for Certified Horsemanship Association
Animal Planet Feature Piece
Speaker/demo at Dressage at Devon
Speaker at Intercollegiate Horse Show Association Finals
Appearances at multiple equine expos
Speaker at Clicker Expo, American Riding Instructor Association, and presenter at IAABC Conference
Have worked with top athletes such as Beezie Madden, Richard Spooner, Sue Blinks, Robert Ridland, Jane Savoie, Ashley Holzer, Keady and Randy Cadwell, and more
Jessie Hillegas-
Multiple championships earned at local and rated hunter/jumper shows
Vast training experience with hunters, jumpers, and dressage horses, having personally started hundreds of horses under saddle.
Taught clinics in the US and abroad in the practical application of positive reinforcement.
Taught multiple traditional training clinics (before her start with R+).
Employed as barn manager, trainer, and coach for multiple show barns.
Trainer/coach for Bucknell University and Susquehanna University Intercollegiate riding teams.
Trainer/Coach for local Interscholastic Equestrian Association team.
Breeder of top Warmbloods having successfully earned Championships on the line at major venues such as The Devon Horse, Young Horse Show Finals, Upperville, Warrenton, and others.
Vast experience working with hundreds of horses using positive reinforcement while working with Shawna Karrasch Equine.
Please keep these considerations in mind when deciding the best fit for your professional equine training and behavior goals:
Considering the reputation and integrity of Shawna Karrasch Equine, we believe that our certification program will provide unmatched value to our future professionals. This is a solid investment in your future.
We aim not only to develop your skills as an exemplary positive reinforcement trainer/consultant/professional, but to also equip you with the expertise to excel.
Consider the quality of personalized coaching, feedback, and support you receive, both in live webinars, in-person evaluation, and on your case studies throughout the entire process. We believe our standards are second to none.
You will also have access and support of a dedicated community. We look forward to standing arm in arm with you as together, we make a difference in the horse world.
Skill Enhancement:
Throughout SKE's year-long certification program, participants will cultivate a comprehensive skill set designed to enhance their proficiency in training horses and effectively teaching others with compassion and understanding.
The curriculum will encompass a range of methodologies and practical applications, equipping individuals with the knowledge and confidence to implement positive reinforcement techniques across diverse environments. This training will empower participants to foster meaningful connections with both horses and people, ultimately promoting a more humane and effective approach to animal training and education.
Career Opportunities:
This certification opens doors to create your own niche in this market, including equine training, behavior consulting, and education in both private and public sectors. The sky is the limit. Graduates can specialize in their own personalized areas of interest or to stay generalized if they so choose.
Contribution to Equine Welfare:
By advocating for and utilizing positive reinforcement, certified individuals contribute to the overall welfare and happiness of horses.
Participants will be equipped to educate others, spreading knowledge about humane training methods and improving horse handling practices globally. You will be offering contemporary solutions to age-old traditional challenges.
Networking and Community:
We are here to support each student in their learning, as well as helping to implement a planned path forward for goal and career success.
R+ University certification in positive reinforcement training with equids is not just an educational program; it is a stepping stone to a fulfilling career in the equine industry. Participants will emerge as knowledgeable, skilled, and ethical professionals, ready to make a significant impact in the lives of horses and their human partners. Embrace this opportunity to elevate your career and advocate for a compassionate approach to training.
Payment:
In order to make tuition as affordable as possible, we would like offer you payment options to cover the total year-long tuition cost of $3750. Your $50 non-refundable application fee will go toward your tuition.
Please choose from one of the following:
FAQ
When and where will the in-person evaluation of this certification be held?
We plan to meet in Salem, CT USA on June 8-14 at Sweet Serenity Stables. This will be at the halfway mark for the certification. Please arrive the day before and plan to be there for the duration of June 14th.
What is the cancellation policy for this certification?
Tuition is non-refundable. Once you reserve your spot, we are committed to the year-long certification process and your payments must be completed in a timely fashion. Since we will only be accepting a limited number of applicants, we see this as a mutual commitment. Deferral for later completion (for participants in good standing) with SKE is possible in extenuating circumstances.
What if I can't make it to the in-person testing site?
By applying to this certification, you commit to being able to attend the in-person evaluation. If you are abroad or unable to attend for whatever reason, we are willing to accept a pre-determined tuition increase for online communication and evaluation.
What is entailed in the selection process?
We have limited time and space available, so the selection process will focus first on one's dedication and determination to working through this certification process. We would like to create a cohesive and like-minded group of people who agree with our standards and ethics when it comes to furthering their knowledge of positive reinforcement training.
Where can I find horses to use for my case studies?
Anywhere! Ask your local stables, a friend, etc. We would like you to choose objectives that speak to your desired area of focus and therefore horses that will fit that criteria.
Will I need to be able to ride for the Mastery Certification?
This certification will start the process for the under saddle work or the preparation thereof. You will not be required to ride for this certification, but will be working toward helping horses in preparation for under saddle work. Under saddle certification will be available in 2026.
What is the cost for this certification?
Master: $3750 with up to four payments spread over the first six months of certification possible.
What am I responsible to pay for when I attend the in-person evaluation?
We are determined to keep costs as low as possible during the week-long evaluation process. We plan to find a host house or Air BnB to share so that we can spend time together as a cohesive group. You will therefore only be responsible for your own shared lodging and food.
How will I show SKE where I'm at with my case studies?
Case studies will be ongoing and this is something we will be helping you with along the way. You will be submitting video and discussing the training at length throughout the entire process. You can have someone video your sessions for you or utilize a device such as a PIVO to record for you.
Do I have to be a Shawna Karrasch Equine Member to do this certification?
Required course work, communities, meetups, personal coaching, and all support are inside the SKE membership. Therefore, keeping your status as member throughout this certification is important to all progress and communication. Additionally, when you create your own coursework and curriculum, this is where you will want to refine your process.
Can I use my own horses for case studies?
You can use your horse for one of the case studies. The other two case studies, you will want to find horses who present challenges that we can work toward resolving. Or if there is new objective you'd like to use as your case study, you can focus there. You may also use your own horse when it comes to the case studies for teaching people. Month one of certification, you will receive information about how to write and work through all six case studies.
Do people need to have their own horse to become certified?
No. You can use other people's horses to work toward certification.