USHJA Announces 2025 Instructor Credential Live Workshop and Examination Dates and Locations

Lexington, Ky.—March 6, 2025—The U.S. Hunter Jumper Association is pleased to announce the USHJA Instructor Credential Live Workshop and Examination session dates and locations being offered throughout the year. This year features five in-person sessions held across the country. USHJAWorkshop042224SDHPhotography-1042-2

Dates and locations this year for Live Workshop and Examination sessions include:

  • May 12-13 at USHJA Collegiate Partner Lake Erie College in Painesville, Ohio
  • June 16-17 at Elvenstar in Moorpark, Calif.
  • September 15-16 at Hillcrest Stables in Chittenango, N.Y.
  • October 13-14 at Stony Glen Stables in Celina, Texas
  • November 17-18 at the Savannah College of Art and Design in Savannah, Ga.

Twelve seats are available at each session on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration is now open for the California, New York, and Texas sessions, while Georgia will be opening soon. The Ohio session is currently full.

Registration for the USHJA Instructor Credential is now open for USHJA members above the Outreach level who are 18 years of age or older. Individuals can register in their USHJA member account by signing in at my.ushja.org/login, selecting "My Programs" and clicking on the "Enroll" button next to "Instructor Credential."

Those who meet the prerequisites, complete the online registration form, and submit the corresponding fee are granted access to the Instructor Credential Library of online courses. After completing the online courses, candidates interested in pursuing the Credential must submit proof of experience teaching at least 40 hours of mounted and unmounted lessons, and pass a background check before attending a Live Workshop and Examination.

During the live examination, candidates will be tested on their teaching skills and provided individualized feedback. Examiners will score candidates utilizing a standardized rubric that includes categories for safety, structure, organization, professional conduct, and the candidate’s ability to detect and correct errors.

Upon successful completion of all prerequisite online courses, the workshop, and passing scores from two examiners during the live examination, candidates will be awarded the status of USHJA Credentialed Instructor. Candidates will receive their results within 30 days of the examination. 

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For individuals who are currently USHJA Certified Trainers, the Trainer Certification Program will be sunset at the end of 2025. Certified Trainers are encouraged to enroll in and complete the Instructor Credential program prior to December 1 in order to maintain USHJA recognition. Click here for a step-by-step guide to making the transition.

To support members in their pursuit of personal and professional goals, the USHJA is pleased to offer grants to eligible Instructor Credential participants who complete the online coursework and attend a Live Workshop and Examination. Learn more and apply here.

Additionally, the Naomi Blumenthal Memorial Training Grant provides financial support for equestrians wishing to continue their equestrian education, including the Instructor Credential. Applications open in August.

To learn more about the USHJA Instructor Credential and to sign up for a live session, visit ushja.org/instructorcredential.

Photos: SDH Photography