Field Naturalist Certificate Program - Fall 2026 West

This 12-week certificate program is designed for people who want to deepen their knowledge and understanding of the natural world, build their environmental resume, or work with an environmental group. Each session explores a naturalist topic through assigned readings, lectures, and hands-on field experiences. We'll focus on building a broad base of ecological understanding and the skills needed to properly communicate about the environment.

Through lectures and hands-on field work, you will gain a comprehensive, integrated understanding of: general ecology, dendrology, botany, ornithology, entomology, herpetology, mammalogy, mycology, freshwater ecology, climate and climate change.

Through certification, you will:

• Develop a sound knowledge base of Massachusetts' ecology and natural history
• Gain the tools to continue learning about the environment on your own
• Learn field research techniques and methodologies
• Understand and be able to articulate the importance of sound ecological management principles, climate change resilience, and land protection
• Enhance your ability to advocate for the environment

In addition to fulfilling all the coursework, participants will need to complete 40 hours of independent environmental stewardship/volunteer work to become a fully certified Field Naturalist. You have up to 3 years to complete all the Certificate requirements. Lectures are recorded. Missed Field Days can be made up by attending during a later course offering.

Registration is required for this Member-benefit course. There is a nonrefundable deposit required upon registration, and the balance must be paid in full by 30 days before the first course meeting.