Tarot Correspondence Course

We'd like to show you what most Tarot readers never learn…

Let two trusted Tarot Grandmasters fill the gaps left by
so many books, answer your questions, and
personally help you become a Tarot expert!

Work one-on-one with Wald and Ruth Ann Amberstone, founders of The Tarot School!

  • Discover the meanings behind the meanings and the hidden secrets of the cards
  • Learn how to read with confidence and precision
  • Cut through confusion, conflicting viewpoints and Tarot "information overload"
  • Create a deep well of Tarot knowledge that you can access at any time, without consulting a book (a must for tricky readings!)
  • Find out what is behind the pictures of the world's most famous deck
  • Uncover the secrets tucked deep inside you as you learn and grow…
  • Get a firm foundation in Tarot that you'll build on for years to come
  • Start your Tarot journey here… and go anywhere!


“I LOVE the first lesson, this is EXACTLY what I've been looking for, and I can't wait to speak with you.”

— Holly Benner


Dear Tarot Seeker,

We may not know each other well. Perhaps we've never met. But we're confident that the following is true — or will be true — of you:

The more you study Tarot, the more you want to study Tarot!

Are we psychic? Well, maybe a little! After all, we've got over 100 years of Tarot study between us and have taught thousands of students at The Tarot School. But in this case, it's just the experience talking. Working with Tarot creates an insatiable thirst for more knowledge. We've seen it again and again, with everyone from beginners to the old hands. It's even true for us!

Even in this "information age," finding that knowledge can be a real challenge. But there's a bigger problem.

What most books tell you is just the tip of the iceberg. Despite the fact that the esoteric arts are more popular than ever, the true secrets of Tarot remain hidden… in plain sight.

Bad news? Maybe, maybe not. It doesn't matter. What really matters is that they exist at all… and that they can be uncovered by sincere, diligent seekers willing to do the work, ask questions, and accept the help of two patient teachers shining the light and showing the way.

That's where we come in.


The only "all in one" Tarot study program available anywhere

When we started The Tarot School more than 27 years ago, we noticed something. No single teacher or author really took on the daunting task of unveiling "the big picture" of modern Tarot — the occult underpinnings that have shaped Tarot into what it is today.

We created The Tarot School Correspondence Course to correct that problem. The course brings together the most important elements of esoteric Tarot, from qabalah to astrology to numerology and much, much more. It forms the backbone of The Tarot School Correspondence Course Degree program (and indeed, our entire curriculum).

We sought to create a single unified body of knowledge for the serious seeker. 24 years and thousands of students later, it's safe to say that, to that end, the course is a smashing success. Put simply, The Correspondence Course Degree Program may be the most well-rounded and comprehensive single source of Tarot knowledge available anywhere.

We know that's a bold claim. Keep reading and we'll show you exactly what we mean.


What makes the Correspondence Course and Degree Program different?

There are many paths one can take to learn Tarot. Why take this one?

We focus on the fundamentals. By the end, you'll know them — and not just by rote memorization of keywords. You'll really know them, at the center of your being. Do that, and you can do anything you want with Tarot. Anything!

Tarot is much like a house with many storeys and thousands of rooms. New designers come in and add to it all the time. But there is an unchanging, often misunderstood, structure that holds it all up. Without it, the entire house would come crashing down.

That structure is your foundation for whatever you choose to do with Tarot, whether you become a professional reader, read for friends, or use Tarot to discover what makes you tick. You'll build it as you work through the course. Along the way, you'll make some amazing discoveries about your inner world, the outer world, and the people around you.


An intimate, intense and wholly satisfying way to learn Tarot

The Correspondence Course Degree Program is not your typical Tarot course. There are no classes to attend. All of the work will be done on your own, during quiet time, just you and the deck.

There are no tests, and there are no grades. But you'll work hard, and when you're done, you'll have a hefty set of skills and a knowledge of Tarot that few ever attain. You'll be a competent Tarotist… and you'll have the credentials to back it up (more on that in a moment).

Most importantly, you will have the abilities that come from understanding Tarot at a very deep level.

Make no mistake: this program will challenge you — and change you! But don't worry. This is a journey that we're going to take together.


“Each day as I write, I realize all the wisdom and experience Wald has poured into these exercises. I feel like each phrase is a teacher guiding me towards greater understanding for which I am deeply grateful.

In my second lesson with Wald, he mentioned to me that ‘One day you'll be walking along and fall down to your knees with the magnificence and wonder of all that's around you because for the first time you can see clearly.’ I feel this happening in my own life and know full well that it is because of Wald's teaching that I am able to have such extraordinary experiences.”

— Richard Pappalardo



Personal attention from two respected leaders
with over 100 years of experience

In case we've never met before, we'd like to introduce ourselves. We're Wald & Ruth Ann Amberstone. We founded The Tarot School almost 3 decades ago.

Both of us are Certified Tarot Grandmasters. We have personally taught Tarot to thousands of students in our live classes, teleclasses and events. By way of our audio recordings, writings, participation online and our popular Tarot Tips newsletter, we reach and teach thousands more.

Now we'd like to personally help you on your own journey. When you sign up for the Degree Program, we'll work with you on each and every lesson — all told, as much as 30 hours of personal, one-on-one coaching.

But there's no timer running here. We'll be with you for the long haul.


How does it work?

Once you have a Universal Waite deck (readily available from your local bookstore, Amazon.com, or other online retailer), you're ready to begin. The process is simple.

Your lesson will arrive each month on the anniversary of your enrollment. You'll start by reading on a central theme and you'll do a series of exercises or spreads to reinforce it. Then, together we'll pull back the curtain and take a good long look at some cards. We'll cover a wide range of meanings (traditional, spiritual, and esoteric), then settle in for our signature examination of the symbols on each card (you've never seen anything like this before, and you won't see it anywhere else).

Along the way, you'll work through challenging exercises drawn from special techniques, meditations, spreads and pathworkings. You'll do them all, write about your experiences, and send what you've written to us.

If you're working steadily, the whole process will take about a month. But don't worry — there is never any rush.

After we review your work, we'll go over it with you by phone. You'll definitely have questions — we'll discuss those too. We'll talk for as long as it takes for you to understand the material.

Then you'll begin the next lesson. There are 15 lessons in all.

We said that the process is simple. But it's far from easy. We believe that this is some of the most challenging work you'll ever do.

But when you're done, you will have something that very few Tarotists do: a deep, intimate knowledge and understanding of esoteric Tarot, the basis of the entire modern Tarot tradition.


Your journey starts now, no matter where you are

You might be asking yourself if this course is "appropriate" for someone at your level. The answer is yes.

We'll begin our work together from wherever you are. If you are twenty years along The Fool's Journey, we'll start there. If you are at the very, very beginning (let's say you don't even have a deck yet), we begin there.

This is by design, not by accident. Beginner, intermediate, advanced… we wrote this course for you, whether you've been reading professionally for years or stumbled on our site by accident and have yet to pick up a deck. (In fact, if that's you, we envy you — that moment you hover with your foot above the path is magical. Savor it — you'll look back on it fondly.)

The lessons don't get more sophisticated as you go along. You, on the other hand, will! You'll grow by leaps and bounds.

Here is something you should know: if you are asking yourself if the course is "appropriate," you are probably wondering if you can do it. Once again, the answer is yes. Yes, you can. If you take that first step, then the next and the next, one after the other, and keep going even when it gets rough, you can do it!

It doesn't matter where you are now. What matters is that you begin.

I'm ready to take the first step! Sign me up for the Degree Program!


For those who want to go deep…

You may have seen books and programs on Tarot which promise you quick knowledge and learning. And there's nothing wrong with that! Despite the big learning curve, there are many techniques that you can learn in a flash. You can certainly get "up and running" quickly.

Nonetheless, as you may have gathered, we take a different approach.

There are no shortcuts in this course. If you're looking for the "quick and easy" way of learning Tarot, this program probably isn't for you.

But.

If you're ready to go deeper (even if you're just starting out)… if you're ready to give yourself the gift of taking the time to learn something you love very, very well… if the thought of digging deep into the rich soil of Tarot excites you, this program may be exactly what you are looking for.

Please understand that the course is a commitment… to your own growth and learning. We take that very seriously.


What is personal coaching like?

Personal coaching is not like school. Nobody will stand over you, nor will you get glares from the front of the room. You won't be penalized for "wrong" answers and you won't be sent to detention for late homework! (Really, there's no such thing — the lessons take as long as they take.)

What we hope to do with this program is feed you — feed your mind, your spirit and your love for Tarot. The lessons themselves will provide much food for thought. Without deadlines and on your own, you have the time and space to come to your own conclusions. Then, together in our coaching sessions, we'll uncover even more for reflection.

We'll guide you and gently nudge you and yes, you'll be held accountable! But we're also here for you, to answer all of your questions and to help you get what YOU need from the material. It's truly a personal experience, one that you can never get from a group class, no matter how small.


Setting a course — and staying on track

Even the most seasoned Tarot students struggle! There are times when it feels like you're moving through a tangled thicket: all branches and thorns. It's easy to lose your way… or worse, not move at all. Without guidance, these obstacles can take a lot of time.

We'll make sure you get started on the right foot. Your personal coaching will begin with an introductory session that takes place BEFORE you do any work on the first lesson. We'll alert you to common time-consuming pitfalls and share some of our best tips and tricks to ensure your success.

Then, we'll help keep you on the path. We'll let you know when you're straying and we'll keep you out of the woods. When times get tough, we can get you back to where you need to be.


“Thank you so much for the coaching session this morning. The Course is even more fascinating than I first thought. I really want to do it not just for my benefit — which of course will bring tremendous growth — but to be able to help others to realise that they are much much than they think they are and that the Universe is much more also.”

— June Chippendale



Your newfound knowledge and skills will add up… quicker than you'd think!

We mentioned that The Correspondence Course Degree Program isn't the "quick and easy" way of learning Tarot — and it isn't. But time goes by faster than you think! And something amazing happens when you fully commit to the process.

We designed the course with absorption and integration of the material in mind. You can't do that just by reading. You'll work with Tarot — intensely. You'll take in a lot of information. You'll retain a great deal of it. Time will begin to fall away.

Your learning is supercharged. And when you look back over even a month or two, you'll see that the sheer amount of information readily available at your mental fingertips is vast indeed.

Besides, you'll get through the blocks so much faster with our help.

I'm rarin' to go! Sign me up NOW!


We know where you're coming from because we've been there…

Recently, one of our students told us something interesting about her experience in this program. She said, "I didn't know I had so much to say until I had someone to say it to!" And we had to smile.

Her frustration, of course, was very real. It can feel like you're stuck on a desert island when you're learning Tarot. Finding like-minded seekers can be tough, especially in some parts of the world. Even worse, some people — even friends and family — are openly hostile to the idea of learning Tarot, dismissing it as "fortune-telling" or "the work of the devil."

For some of our students, our exchanges are a real relief. We understand this and embrace it!

Our exchanges are a give-and-take. Over the course of the lessons, we can't help but learn about each other. Some of our students have become lifelong friends.

We've been at this for years. We know what you'll go through. And you'll always have a place to turn.


“Of great personal value is the rapport that builds between the School and myself. The feedback I receive on each lesson I submit is invaluable, providing much food for thought and, more importantly, I believe, reflection. I know that I can always email a query and be confident that I will receive a helpful pointer.”

— James Gladwin



“I appreciated you taking the time to listen to
the students and as one of those students, I am comforted in knowing that you are so involved with correspondence school students. This is not a pleasure that I have experienced with other correspondence courses.”

— Red Deer


I want to join the hundreds of other students already on the path. Sign me up!


Indulge your love of learning

Tarot enthusiasts are a diverse bunch! But, as we mentioned earlier, we've found that there is one thing that unites almost all of them.

"Tarot people" are voracious learners. They throw themselves in headfirst, they gobble up every book they can get their hands on. Because they know that everything they learn is another layer, another facet, another piece of the puzzle… and that it all adds up to better readings, more knowledge, increased expertise and all that comes with them!

Are you a voracious Tarot learner, too? Is your bookshelf crammed with dog-eared, underlined, well-loved Tarot books? Do decks burst out of your bureau drawer? Do you stop everything to fawn over a new deck or book whenever it arrives?

Do you love to spend hours "indulging" in the sumptuous feast that is Tarot?

If you're just starting out, maybe your "Tarot addiction" isn't that bad yet. Well, all we can say is, give it time! If you've been on the road for a while, you know exactly what we mean. Either way, with the Correspondence Course, you're in for a treat. We'll get down to the nitty-gritty details of exactly how much material you'll be getting a little later on. But for now, we'll just promise that our course will keep you busy and happy for some time to come.

Of course I'm down for this, I'm a Tarot-holic! Sign me up!


Make Tarot a part of your "imprint"

The Tarot School Correspondence Course has been going strong now for almost as long as The Tarot School itself. Thousands of our students have taken it. And if a student really does the work, something interesting almost always happens.

Of course it doesn't surprise us in the slightest. It's perfectly natural and it's what the work in the course is designed to do.

The Tarot gets hardwired into your brain. It becomes a part of you.

Why is this so important?

When the cards are a part of you, you'll have easy access to them. No more referencing the book as you read. No learning long lists of keywords that you have to fight to remember at a moment's notice. Once you learn the cards in this way, you will never forget them again. And, consequently, a whole world of opportunity opens up.

You'll get good — really good — at Tarot when you operate on that level. This is how you become one of those readers who seems to know it all, just intuitively. It's this deep mind meld with the Tarot that will give you the abilities you see in the Tarot practitioners you most admire.

Maybe that kind of deep knowledge isn't for you. As we said, this course isn't for everyone. But if you're ready to make Tarot a permanent part of your mental DNA, this is the course you want.

I want to make it permanent! Sign me up for the Degree Program!


The reading skills you'll develop are real

It's true that The Correspondence Course Degree Program is one of the most intellectually rigorous Tarot training programs that we know of. It's also true that you will be doing a lot of inner work (which we'll touch on in the next section).

Our students often ask us if we can teach them to be good readers. We tell them that it's up to them and we don't know how long it will take. You must understand that we can't do the work for you. You won't learn to be a good reader unless you put in the time.

But we can promise this: if you do the work, consistently and carefully, and if you work with us, we can help you reach your goals. You will learn how to read, and read well. By the end of the course, you will be astonished at the extent of your knowledge. (Don't be surprised if your family and friends are also amazed by your skill and accuracy.)

No matter what, you will have a set of skills that are incredibly useful and will set a fine foundation under you. The exercises that we teach are truly a toolkit, designed to be used over and over again. Some of these techniques you'll use with every card. And you'll be able to apply them to almost any deck you'll work with after the Rider-Waite-Smith.

Here are a few of the spreads and readings you'll learn in the course:

    • A deceptively simple exercise that adds to your knowledge and
      understanding of a card each and every time you do it — guaranteed
      (Lesson 1)

    • A powerful one-card reading that gives precise information about any situation and can be done any time, any place, and with any deck
      (it requires absolutely zero knowledge of "what the card means" — Lesson 1)

    • The three simple criteria that ensure the quality of any reading you perform (Lesson 2)

    • A quick reading that gives instant, accurate insight into how a querent feels about and relates to the people around him or her (Lesson 3 — you'll add on this in Lessons 6, 9 and 12, ultimately creating a rich, complex description of any person)

    • A powerful (and uncannily accurate!) 5-card spread to get at the issues
      in any relationship (Lesson 5)

    • Got a pressing need or urgent concern? This short spread will tell you
      exactly what to do next… (Lesson 7)

    • A 5-card spread that will help you get anything you want (Careful what
      you wish for! This one draws on the fiery energy of the Wands and is very effective — Lesson 7)

    • Two courses of action competing for your attention? This 3-card spread will help you sort it all out (Lesson 8)


“Studying with The Tarot School gave me the courage to start doing readings on my own. The one on one attention is unbelievable. It has deepened my understanding tremendously.”

— Diane Luby Lane, Los Angeles, CA

I know it's up to me. I'm ready. Sign me up for the Degree Program!


The credentials you'll earn are impressive

Working through The Correspondence Course Degree Program is no small feat. The entire course will take as long as it takes — you'll complete it when you finish, there's no rush, and there's no way that we can predict exactly when you'll be done. But we can tell you that it takes 18 months to receive all the lessons, and most people take approximately 3 years to complete the coursework. But not to worry — you'll want to savor every lesson like a fine wine.

In any long, intensive course, it helps to have milestones along the path — to stop, take a break, regroup and bask in your accomplishments. For The Correspondence Course Degree Program, we've designed four of these milestones. Here's how it works.

You'll receive three certificates of achievement as you finish lessons 3, 6 and 9. When you have completed lesson 11, you'll receive your degree from The Tarot School. If you choose to complete the work in lesson 12, you'll receive your degree “with distinction” and your certificate will feature a special gold seal attesting to that fact.


You can take your time…

We understand that all of this might sound like a lot of work. Indeed it is… and therein lies one of the Degree Program's many strengths.

When you undertake The Correspondence Course Degree Program, you'll look at the cards much more closely than you ever have before. You will cover a lot of topics in depth that most Tarot books only gloss over, if they mention them at all. You will complete the course with the kind of perspective on the cards that very few Tarot readers ever achieve.

There are some things you just can't rush. This kind of learning experience is one of them.

Luckily, you won't have to. We understand that it can be difficult to consistently have the kind of time the course demands and life can be unpredictable.

There's no rush and there's no hurry. We want you to take all the time you need to do the work and do it well. And we're making the journey together.

Remember, this is the most comprehensive single source of Tarot knowledge, skill and learning that we know of. You won't get to the end of it overnight (and you wouldn't want to). But if you reach out and accept our help, you will get there.


… and when you arrive, the sky's the limit

So what will you do with what you'll learn from the Degree Program?

Ultimately, that's up to you… and the limits of your imagination! Here are just a few possibilities:

    • Get guidance from the cards whenever you need it

    • Help your friends and family with your reading skills

    • Dig deeper into the mysteries of esoteric arts like qabalah, astrology, numerology or ceremonial magic

    • Pursue a spiritual path — the meditation and pathworking practices you'll develop in the Degree Program are the practical tools behind many traditions

And, of course, you will probably want to take your Tarot studies further! Rather than an end, the finished program is just the beginning…

Have you ever wanted to write a book on Tarot? It's no small feat and you'll need a lot of expertise and experience, but the Degree Program can help you. Or how about starting your own Tarot business? If you don't feel quite ready to read professionally by the time you're done with the course, you'll be much closer than you were. Maybe you will want to have students of your own, give classes in your home or a local bookstore, or even become a Tarot speaker.

Having done all of these things and more, we can guide you along the path to your goals. And your degree from The Tarot School, one of the most respected sources of Tarot information in the Tarot community at large, will make a strong addition to your resume wherever you look for work as a professional reader, speaker, teacher or author.

My mind is swimming with the possibilities!
Sign me up so I can get started!


The biggest benefits are the ones you CAN'T see

When most people take up a program of extended study, they want to know that they've achieved some visible, tangible, practical outcome. And indeed, with such an investment of time and energy at stake, it's important to know that you're going to have something to show for it when you're done.

Our students are driven. They're go-getters. They want to take all this juicy knowledge and apply it in the "real world." But some of the richest, deepest, most satisfying outcomes are found in the inner world… the one that moves with you, every moment of every day, in everything you do.

We're talking about personal growth. Spiritual and personal change. Transformation.

This is where the true magic lies. And it happens naturally as you work through the course.

You will think about things — even everyday things — more deeply. You begin to see connections where there were none. Problems are matched with solutions. The world becomes bigger, brighter, and at the same time, much more manageable.

You'll begin to feel more relaxed. With the skills we'll teach you, you can create a safe, inner sanctuary where you can explore, connect, and be still. In our hectic, even frantic times, that alone can be worth more than gold.

And when you think about it, it's something that very few people have.

“Again and again, the exercises have led me to unexpected places. The whole process is a transforming experience.”

— Hallfridur

“I was moved to purchase the Correspondence Course and I can only say that it belongs in everyone's library. It is a classic. I am not through it yet; however I have been studying metaphysics actively for about 20 years and I was clearly surprised, charmed, well-fed and nurtured by their work. For me, there must be a very personal message that feels like it is familiar even as it is new. Their teachings in evolutionary human/soul growth fit this ticket.”

— Hannah Setu

“I find The Tarot School Correspondence Course outstanding. As a teacher of the Tarot for many years I have seen so many sites that left me unfullfilled. Not so with your course.”

— Morgan Kiilehua


For those who ask themselves, "Can't we all just get along?"

With deep inner work comes personal growth. Work on yourself, and you'll often work better with others, too.

That's a bit of cause and effect that you don't often hear about. And it doesn't always happen automatically. But Tarot's psychological backbone gives you the power to make it happen, if that is your goal. You can use the Tarot to:

    • Learn what makes people tick

    • Decrease friction when people are hard to get along with

    • Diffuse difficult situations

    • Help yourself be more understanding and sympathetic when
      you're feeling anything but

    • Insulate yourself from those small, day-to-day interpersonal annoyances between you and people like your boss, your co-workers, the checkout clerk, strangers on a bus, whoever

To study Tarot in-depth means to take up the study of the human experience. You'll learn a lot about people and their patterns in the course. We've included some great relationship spreads and techniques too. Use them to explore your relationships, or help others do the same.

I want to know myself and those around me.
Sign me up for the Degree Program!


Strengthen your mind
(focus and concentration go up while stress levels go down)

With patience and diligence, you'll become expert at meditation and visualization — the course is packed with both, from the very first lesson! You'll learn these techniques and many others:

  • A quick way to relax, get centered and open your mind for what comes next (this one you'll do again and again — it feels delicious! Lesson 3)

  • A simple technique that allows you to create a state of mind suited to prolonged concentration and focus (you'll learn how to do this at will — Lesson 5)

  • An exercise to help you connect with your deck and make it your own (Lesson 6)

  • A series of techniques designed to help you grasp the cards fully, holistically, deeply (think "true understanding," not "keywords" — Lessons 1, 2, 5 7 and others)

  • An exercise to blast distractions away and keep your mind on the task at hand (Lesson 6)

  • Having trouble sleeping? You won't once you learn this safe, easy cure (yep, it's all in your head, no pills or drinks required — Lesson 10)

  • A meditation to help you let go of your ego and become a clear channel reliable for insight and guidance from your inner self (Lesson 8)

  • A pathworking to receive clear, specific information from your past, present and future (Lesson 8)

I'm ready for utter bliss! Sign me up for the Degree Program!

“I feel lucky and blessed to have signed up for the course. It really was the best thing I ever did. My life is completely different than it was before. I am more at peace and serene on the inside. I am now working, living, and operating from the inside out and that all came from the course.”

— Darelyn Potter


“This is truly an initiatory tarot course, one which must be experienced on a regular basis so as to benefit fully from its wisdom and insights. A book won't give you the sense of playfully living and joyfully communing with the cards like you get from Wald and Ruth Ann. They will guide you through the tarot landscape while helping you forge the skills necessary to find your own unique way. The Tarot School Correspondence Course is highly recommended for seekers of ancient wisdom and self-knowledge, as well as for those who simply want to use the cards. It's the next best thing to taking classes at The Tarot School.”

— Mary K. Greer
Author of Tarot For Yourself, The Complete Book of Tarot Reversals, 21 Ways to Read a Tarot Card and others.


De-mystify esoteric concepts

It's Tarot's perennial problem. You can read Tarot without ever touching a book, but sooner or later, 99.9% of all readers crack open at least a few to learn "what the cards mean." Usually, the first order of business is to commit long lists of keywords to memory (flashcards, anyone?).

But here's the rub: those lists are not "what the cards mean." In fact, they are only the result of "what the cards mean." Ultimately, they come from the author's personal experience, plus that of his or her teachers and many readers who came before.

Of course, this isn't a bad thing! Tarot is a living, breathing creature, the result of a rich legacy of insight from bright, creative human beings like you. As you work with the cards yourself, you will add your own meanings to the tapestry. And it's wonderful!

But what if you want to find out what the cards really mean? Where do the meanings, as we know them, come from?

If you're starting from scratch, you'll need to look closely at the story behind the Rider-Waite-Smith deck, the occult tradition that inspired it and the historical context in which it was created… and that's just for starters.

The information is out there. But it's not easy to find. The overwhelming majority of Tarot books won't do you any good here. So you'll have to look elsewhere, making special trips to libraries and small collections.

You'll have to spend hundreds of hours poring over reference books, biographies, symbol dictionaries, grimoires, magical texts, instructional materials from 19th century magical orders, and a few private collections to find it all, just as we have. And then you'll have to piece it all together in a way that makes sense…

Luckily, you don't have to worry about it. We've got it covered!

The Tarot system that we teach borrows heavily from a host of esoteric disciplines, including hermetic qabalah, astrology, numerology, a little alchemy, more than a little Freemasonry, and the Golden Dawn, a magical order whose formidable influence still shapes today's occult world. In each lesson, we'll take this complicated collection of esoteric "stuff" and turn it into something useful. You'll have it all laid out in front of you — neatly organized for easy access now and easy to add to later as you do research on your own.

In addition, you'll use all of this material in the exercises you complete. We'll take care not to confuse you, giving you exactly what you need at the right time and leaving the door wide open for further exploration. (Better count on that — trust us, it's very easy to get hooked on this stuff once you get going. And when you've got the basics well in hand, the next books you read will be much, much easier to understand.)

To be honest, you don't need this information. You could get by without it, doing readings based solely on intuition and lists of keywords. But the truth is, this kind of information and understanding separates the average readers from the great ones. The choice is yours.

Thank goodness — that stuff has puzzled me for years! Sign me up!


“Superb. This brilliant course brings together a mass of detailed information on the Qabalist tradition while still focusing on the student's direct experience with the pictures. Unlike some earlier esoteric teachings, the course acknowledges the value of doing readings as central to most people's understanding of the cards. The incredibly detailed presentation of Masonic and Qabalist symbolism in the Rider Minor Arcana is likely to revolutionize our view of Pamela Smith's famous pictures.”

— Rachel Pollack
Author of many books on tarot including Seventy-Eight Degrees of Wisdom, and creator of The Shining Tribe Tarot.


The "straight dope" on the Waite-Smith deck

Unless you're a complete newcomer to Tarot (if so, welcome!), you undoubtedly know that the Rider-Waite-Smith deck is the de facto standard. But here's something you might not know: every part of the pictures on those cards means something.

Every single image, from the stars on the Empress' crown to the wreath on the World card, was carefully and deliberately chosen. Veils, pillars, roses, lilies, stars, serpents, jewelry, pomegranates, banners, wings, paths, mountains… even the colors are infused with meaning. There are no accidents here. It's not just art.

If you knew the meanings of those symbols and the intentions of the deck's creators, you would have a much bigger vocabulary on which to draw. Readings would flow more smoothly. Your intuition would have lots of ammunition in the tight spots. That kind of knowledge certainly stacks the deck (pardon the pun!) in your favor.

Tracking down these tidbits and pulling them all together was rather like doing a jigsaw puzzle that nobody had done. We had to call on some very special sources to do it ourselves. But we felt it was a must.

Now, we lovingly pass it on to you — a course in symbology tucked neatly inside the Correspondence Course proper.

We use the Waite-Smith deck because it springs from the Golden Dawn tradition and that's the brand of Tarot we teach. But there's a fringe benefit: because the RWS deck is the basis for many other commercial decks available today, the information you get here is directly applicable to those other decks.

I want more tricks up my sleeve for the tough questions and querents.
Sign me up!


One piece of a much larger whole

While it's true that The Correspondence Course Degree Program is one of the most comprehensive single sources of Tarot knowledge available anywhere, we in no way mean to imply that it's the only source worth considering. Far from it! For one thing, we ourselves have many more Tarot courses and programs that you will find useful down the line. But more to the point, the shelves of your local bookstore are brimming with must-have books on Tarot.

You know the ones. Books by Mary K. Greer, Rachel Pollack, Lon Milo DuQuette, Robert Wang, Joan Bunning, Theresa Reed, and many others. You probably have at least some of them on your bookshelf already.

The Correspondence Course Degree Program places no restrictions on learning from other sources. In fact, we encourage it. The Program complements the "classic works" on Tarot very well, especially those focused on magical or inner work. The course will keep you busy, but the urge to explore outside reading will probably hit you fairly early. So we've provided a short reading list at the end of Lesson 2 and another in Lesson 12. All suggestions, no requirements.

Our course is not reflective of any one particular school of thought or position. We welcome students of all traditions and backgrounds. Our only wish is to give you the best Tarot instruction and the most personal attention that we possibly can.

“I received my first lesson last Friday, and I must say I was very excited and impressed. I can see that these lessons are not to be just read but mused over... This is what I have been hungering for for quite some time. [Another course] covered the cube of space. I never quite got the gist of it, but your instructions were a wammy wow for me. I understand more than before! I can only tell you I am very happy to have discovered The Tarot School.”

— Dorothy Rossi

“I just finished reading my first lesson and exercises for the Tarot course. I have to say it is just wonderful. It is all so well planned and executed. Even the printing and formatting are special. Thank you so much for this labor of love. This is like graduate school for Tarot. I hope to be able to complete the course and become the reader I want to be, and with teachers such as yourselves, this will be. Thanks again and keep up the good work. ”

— Rita Segarra

“I'd like to share a quote from one of my students' letters that arrived just this morning. Just recently, I sent him Lesson One of your course: (Note: Judi's student was in prison)

‘That Tarot School lesson you sent blew my mind! It opened up entire realms of possibility for me. YES, YES, YES! Judi, if there's more where that came from, please do keep 'em coming. That lesson was packed with information. I don't think I can say enough about it without gushing, so I'll shut up (big smiley face, complete with slanted eyebrows indicating boyish charm).’

This young man is brilliant, and you're going to read a lot coming from him. Thank you so much for sharing your work with him and giving him an opportunity he would not otherwise have had. You guys are great!”

— Judi Lethbridge

“When I was getting close to finishing the first correspondence course I looked on the web for a new course to take. I found nothing that compared. (and I mean NOTHING!) When Wald let me know that I could take another course I was relieved. I get more value out of the course than any other book or manual I've used.”

— Darelyn Potter

“The course is well structured. It is demanding because standards are high, and I appreciate that. The breadth is empowering, the depth is tantalizing, and the lightness of touch and sense of fun? Delightful!”

— James Gladwin


Impeccably high standards of quality

The Tarot School Correspondence Course is the result of more than 95 years of combined Tarot experience and many more years of painstaking research besides. That's a long time, complete with ups and downs. We've recorded everything along the way and culled the gems for our students. You only get the best.

We stake our reputation on this material, and always have. The course contains no filler or fluff. Like the Rider-Waite-Smith deck itself, every last bit is carefully chosen ton contribute to your growth as a Tarotist.

The journey is long enough… we won't ask you to take any unnecessary steps.

Now it's time to take a closer look at what you'll get when you sign up for the Degree Program.


Note: Lessons, audio and workbooks come as pdfs and mp3s.


The Lessons

We start with the written lessons — you'll get 13 of them (12 regular lessons plus a surprise bonus lesson — you won't know when it's coming). Here's a brief summary of just some of what they contain:

  • The meaning behind the meanings: accessible, practical teaching on the esoteric disciplines behind modern occult Tarot (qabalah, astrology, numerology, alchemy and other relevant disciplines), clearly organized and presented for each card

  • Karmic, Archetypal, Magickal and Transcendent interpretations of each Major Arcana card, so you get a full range of understanding

  • Attributes, meanings, imagery and symbolism for each of the Minors and Court Cards

  • Extensive discussions and practical work on Tarot's four suits, the four elements, and the symbolism inherent in each

  • The Tarot Court explained in easy-to-follow detail, with an extensive look at the psychology behind each figure (Lessons 3, 6, 9 and 12)

  • Two thorough sections on esoteric numerology (in Lessons 1 and 2 — you'll use it throughout the entire course)

  • A never-before-seen, symbol-by-symbol examination of the visual imagery in the Rider-Waite-Smith deck (it's what we're known for — you won't find it anywhere else, short of tracking it all down yourself)

  • A collection of very effective spreads for life's big issues (relationships, finances, major decisions and choices), to learn and master for yourself, friends, family and clients

  • Step-by-step meditations, visualizations, and pathworkings to decrease your stress, increase your focus, and, of course, help you absorb as much information as you can handle!

  • Practical insights into Tarot psychology, to bring you understanding and satisfying interaction with your inner being, the people around you, and the world

  • Effective suggestions for further study and exploration

The whole course weighs in at over 300 pages.

Given the amount of time, research and expertise that went into each of the monthly lessons and the value you'll get back by reading them through and completing the exercises, we could reasonably charge $30 for each one — without the personal coaching — and call it a steal. Total value: $360 (bare minimum).


The Audio Courses

The written lessons contain the material you need to learn and use esoteric Tarot. For the purposes of the program, it's all there… and of course you get to ask us all the questions you want! But because we're committed to making the Degree Program the absolute best single source of knowledge and skill for any Tarot seeker, including beginners, we've decided to throw in two of our most useful (and most popular!) audio courses.

Containing 14 packed hours of instruction between them, these audio courses take an in-depth look at astrology and qabalah, the twin pillars of Tarot. They come complete with workbooks for you to follow along in class, with plenty of extra space for your notes.

Pain-Free Qabalah for Tarot Readers

The Correspondence Course aside, this audio program by itself may very well be the most important resource in our entire collection.

The answer to "What do the cards mean?" finally goes back to a single root: qabalah. But even a little of this normally heavy and abstract subject is enough to give most Tarot seekers a headache. So they often stay far, far away… and their readings suffer.

We promise you this: the study of qabalah will give you a great deal of power, as a Tarotist and even as a human being. Sounds dramatic, but it's true! And we felt that study with such ramifications should be made much, much easier than it typically is. So we put this audio course together especially for you, the Tarot reader.

Like the Correspondence Course itself, there's nothing extra here to weigh you down or confuse you. Most of all, it's practical — after all, all the esoteric teaching in the world is useless when it comes to Tarot unless you can use it in readings or your own personal practice.

By the time you're done with these 8 packed hours (which you can take at your own pace, of course), you'll have the basics of qabalah at your command, ready and waiting for you to use in your readings, your meditations, your spiritual practice and your life. Here are a few highlights:

  • What qabalah is and how it describes the relationship between the world, divinity and human beings

  • The link between qabalah and the Bible (the Good Book will make so much more sense once you know this)

  • Why "what do the cards mean?" is actually the wrong question to ask…

  • The "origin story" of the relationship between Tarot and qabalah, from the time of the French Revolution to the present day… and what it all means for you as a Tarot reader

  • A play-by-play of how the universe came into being — with help from a blank sheet of paper!

  • The terminology, concepts, architecture and vocabulary of the Tree Of Life, broken down in exacting detail so you don't miss a thing

  • 5 different "Tarot-centric" views of the Tree — a full understanding

  • How to use qabalah to enrich your inner life and know yourself better (you'll be more focused and centered — and your clients will thank you!)

  • The how's, why's, attributes and functions of the Hebrew alphabet explained — finally! — as they relate to Tarot

  • You get only the part of qabalah that is relevant to Tarot, so there's no confusion

  • You'll get it in plain English, not esoteric mumbo-jumbo, so you'll finally get what all those books on qabalah that "you really should read someday" are talking about

  • How to use all of this stuff in your readings

Slowly and step by step, we'll will take you through the basics. You'll write it all out as you go on the included worksheets. Periodic reviews, repetition, and the act of writing will ensure that you get everything down pat, but, just in case, you can listen in again at any time — over and over again. (And if you're still confused, just run your questions by us in your coaching session!)

The audio retails for $79. The power you'll get from it, however, is truly priceless.


“I recently took a class on making talismans. Most of the magical references were from the Qabalah. I stepped into a class in the middle of the series, where everyone had been studying for quite some time. I would have been at a total loss except for one thing — the class I took from you in the Qabalah as a part of the Tarot lessons. So I was familiar with everything the instructor taught, and was able to participate without looking like a fool. Your education has a broad reach, and I am so grateful that I took your course.”

— Susa Morgan Black


Pain-Free Astrology for Tarot Readers

How many times have you been tantalized and frustrated by the lists of astrological correspondences in a Tarot book? Scorpio goes with the Death card, The Wheel Of Fortune and Jupiter have something to do with each other… there must be something to it, yet your eyes glaze over long before you reach the end…

The deep connection between Tarot and astrology does matter! But until you make sense of it, you won't be able to use it… and you'll miss out.

Help is on the way. In this special 6-hour teleseminar, you'll move beyond the lists into true understanding. You'll learn:

  • The hidden reasons for the astrological attributes of every card, from the Majors to the Tarot Court: what they are, why they are there, and how to use them for insightful and accurate readings

  • How astrology can increase your finesse with the Minor Arcana (hint: Pixie Smith knew the score here when she added astrological references to her groundbreaking pip card illustrations)

  • The "secret link" between astrology and the suits, seasons and elements

  • How to predict the "life cycles" of your clients' issues with uncanny accuracy

  • How to use symbols to break through "reader's block"

You'll fill in a 21-page workbook with us during the class. The "hand to pen to paper" exercises will quickly hard-wire this juicy material into your brain. When you're done, you'll have a handy cheat sheet for later study sessions, too.

If you're a newcomer to astrology, these recorded classes will introduce you to this fascinating art. If you're a seasoned astrologer, we promise that you'll learn some fascinating things you never knew before! Most importantly, a deep, holistic survey of modern Tarot is incomplete without this knowledge, and, frankly, in the Degree Program, we can't have that! Retail price: $59.

“I just want to tell you how much I'm enjoying and learning from your Tarot correspondence course. I've been studying Tarot avidly for the past 5 years, read over 100 books on the topic, but I must tell you how much your course has impacted me.

I've absolutely devoured the Qabalah recordings, listening and learning from them 3 full times, and every time I've not only re-inforced what I have learned, but I pick up nuances I didn't get in the times before. When I re-read the books I have on Qabalah, now they make sense easily to my mind.

One of the analogies you used struck me as being so apt. When you said that it is much more difficult to learn to dance from reading a book, I had to chuckle. That has been my experience when trying to understand Qabalah by reading books (which I have tried but to no real success). Your recordings really hit that sweet spot with me. I can hardly wait for each month to pass, as I know that a new lesson will arrive.”

— Jim MacKenzie

“I have been studying Tarot for 20 some odd years (since my early 20s). I collect decks, and have just about every credible (and incredible) book available. It was through listening to your recordings that information about Tarot made its connection. Your recordings and information from the school have totally changed the depth and quality of my readings.”

— Sharon Silveno

“I have just finished the Pain-Free Qabalah audio course and cannot recommend it highly enough. It is 'jam packed' with information which Wald presents in such an easy to understand language. The hands-on participation and interaction between class members and teacher is so natural, I felt I was there with them all — right through the course. From the introduction to the last exercise — which will just take your breath away, you will experience a most wonderful and unforgettable journey.

I am so much richer for this experience and I would recommend the Pain-Free Qabalah to anyone doing the Tarot Course.”

— Pamela May

“After listening to your recordings, 'the lights came on.' Thank you so much for these… I have enjoyed each and every one and really learned a lot.”

— Sheron Duckworth


The Coaching

After you've completed each lesson, you'll send your written work to us and we'll review it personally. Then one of us will meet with you on the phone to go over it together.

Our coaching sessions are the heart of your personal Degree Program experience. During the time we work together, we'll be:

  • "Been there done that" teachers… to answer all of your questions

  • Experienced tour guides… to show you the best sites, warn you of pitfalls and point out "off the beaten path" treasures

  • A cheering squad (rah! rah!)… to help you keep going when you want to quit

  • A patient sounding board… for when you need to get things off your chest

  • Caring mentors… to guide you along your journey

We hope we can become good friends, too.

As you complete your work, you'll be awarded three certificates of achievement (suitable for framing) and at the end, you'll receive a Tarot School Third Degree — you will have earned it! Then we'll discuss your options to continue your studies with us.

The individual coaching sessions vary in length, but they usually take about an hour. You'll also have access to us via email and short telephone calls for your quick questions. All told, we'll put in about 27 hours of one-on-one coaching.

What's the value of 27 hours of coaching? Well, given that our current rate for a private reading is $200 per hour, $5400 (27 x $200) is a conservative estimate of what you'd have to pay to get that kind of time with us outside of this offer (and that doesn't even include the time we'll spend reading your lessons before we join you on the phone).

But don't worry… we love the one-on-ones and want to make your decision to join us as easy as possible. You won't pay even close to that! The price for the lessons, the audio programs, and the personal coaching is $1195.

Yes, payment plans are available! Simply pay $100/month for 12 months. This plan is ONLY available by credit card.

(Note: Your purchase may be tax-deductible as a training expense. Consult your tax advisor.)

I'm ready to take the plunge! Sign me up NOW!


For those who want a little extra breathing room…

If you're not quite ready for the personal coaching (it's a big step, we know), no problem! You can work through the correspondence course and audio programs entirely on your own, at your own pace. The course by itself makes a great reference work — our students often purchase it for the Waite-Smith symbology alone. And you have the option of beginning the coaching at any time — just contact us!

The price of the lessons and the audio programs is just $195.


What's the Difference?

The written lessons and audio courses are the same regardless of whether you choose the non-certificate course or the degree program. The main difference with the degree program is that you actually do the work, submit your lessons for review, and get private coaching sessions with Wald as you go along. The coaching sessions give you the opportunity to ask all your questions and discuss any issues that arise from each lesson. It's a very individualized and powerful process that guarantees that you'll get the most from the course.

If you choose to take the course without the degree program, there's no coursework to submit, and how you work with the lessons is entirely up to you. In either case, you'll always work at your own pace! (And if you decide later that you'd like to go for it, you can always upgrade to the coached degree program later.)


Do the digital delivery happy dance


Do the Digital Delivery Happy Dance!

The Tarot School Correspondence Course comes to you as pdf and mp3 downloads. The course is sent directly to your email inbox!



    • You Have a Choice!
      The non-degree correspondence course is only $195. The degree program is $1195 — and that includes personal coaching! (We have an 12-month payment plan for that, too if it makes it easier.)

    • Start Right Away!
      Your lessons will start right away — no waiting. As soon as you confirm your enrollment, you will receive an introductory letter and your first lesson.

    • Searchable Lessons!
      All the pdf lessons are searchable, making it easy to find just what you’re looking for — whether it’s a card attribution, spread, thought, or technique. Great as a research tool or memory jogger!

    • Extra Worksheets!
      You can print out extra copies of the worksheets that come with the Pain-Free Qabalah for Tarot Readers and Pain-Free Astrology for Tarot Readers audio courses. They’ll come in handy for fixing mistakes, having a cleaner copy, or going through the programs again to re-inforce what you’ve learned.

    Note: The lessons are in pdf format. If you require a free download of Adobe Reader, click on this Acrobat icon.

    Get Adobe Reader

    I'm Down with Downloads — Send Me My Lessons!



    “I LOVE IT! I must confess, I don't know if I'll ever get through the program entirely, being easily distracted (I like to say 'in love with the world' — ha!), but I've read through the course several times now and I'm always making new discoveries. And the info on the Rider-Waite-Smith deck is priceless. Your course is the ONLY place to get that good stuff, so I'm always going back to it.”

    — Elizabeth Purvis


    Our unconditional no-risk money back guarantee

    We know that it's hard to be sure if a course like this is right for you. Trying it out is the only way! So we'd like to make it easy for you to do just that.

    If the prospect of digging deep into Tarot gets you excited… if you've read through this entire web page and want to try the program but something is holding you back… we invite you to request the course and enjoy lesson one. If you decide it's not for you… for ANY reason… just let us know within 30 days and we'll give you a full refund.

    No matter what you decide, keep lesson 1 as our gift. And we'll hope to see you again!


    The most important question to ask yourself right now

    Where would you like your Tarot studies to take you?

    Maybe you've been studying Tarot for years. Maybe you picked up your first book last week. Either way, give yourself a moment to think about it.

    Where would you like to go? What would you like to accomplish?

    • Would you like to become a Tarot reader — not just a competent reader, but the kind of reader whom clients recommend to others again and again, the kind of reader who makes those insightful connections that change lives?

    • How about starting a Tarot business? You can hone your reading skills 'til they're mind-boggling, then put them to use helping others and getting paid to do so…

    • If you run your own Tarot business already, would you like to see it grow? How about adding new techniques to your repertoire and becoming a better reader yourself, so that you can pass that value on to your clients?

    • How about deep immersion in an infinite subject? The scope of Tarot is vast, but most readers never even begin to explore what lies beneath the surface…

    • Would you like to know yourself better? Peek under the hood, make the deep connections, learn the skills that can help you move through life with calm, strength and wholeness…

    • Maybe you'd like to be a part of a special group of students, sharing and connecting…

    • … or would you like to have students of your own someday?

    No matter what the destination on your Tarot journey, no matter where you want to go, The Tarot School Correspondence Course Degree Program is a solid foundation for what you want to achieve. And we'll work with you personally to help you get through the program… and on to the next adventure.


    The journey begins with the first step…

    So if you're ready to move beyond curiosity…
    Beyond studying books on your own…
    Beyond a one-time class at a local community center…
    Beyond a casual relationship with Tarot and towards a holistic, all-encompassing learning experience that covers each critical facet of Tarot in depth…
    If you're ready to get to know yourself very, very well (and those around you, too)…
    If you're ready to grab Tarot with both hands…

    … We invite you to sign up for the program now.

    If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to call (1-800-804-2184) or email. You can also check out our handy FAQ.

    We can't wait to meet you on the road.

    Bright blessings,

    Ruth Ann & Wald Amberstone
    Directors, The Tarot School


    PS: The Tarot School Correspondence Course and Degree Program pulls back the curtain on all the esoteric disciplines that make up Tarot as we know it today — qabalah, astrology, numerology, and much more — and presents them all in a cohesive, easy-to-understand manner. You'll build a firm, practical foundation in Tarot that will serve you well no matter what you choose to do next, whether it be counseling your family and friends, starting your own Tarot business, becoming a teacher, speaker, author or deck designer.

    PPS: We'll be with you every step of the way! The program will stretch you and challenge you, but you won't be going it alone — you'll receive about 30 hours of personal, one-on-one coaching with us. We'll answer your questions, offer encouragement, help you past the stumbling blocks and keep you going on your Tarot journey.

    PPS: We want you to be thrilled! All the risk is on us, so you can give the program a try with confidence. Read the first lesson. If you decide it's not for you, just let us know and we'll issue you a full refund.


    Enroll now

    Enroll now


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