Top 10 Naturalist Certifications

Certifications are important for a naturalist in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and experience in areas related to their field. They also provide recognition and credibility to employers, as they show that the naturalist has taken the time to learn specific skills and understand certain concepts. Certifications can also be used as evidence of professional development, which can lead to increased pay or promotions. Finally, certifications allow employers to quickly assess an applicant’s qualifications and determine if they are a good fit for the position.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Naturalists and explain how they can help to further a naturalist's career.

What are Naturalist Certifications?

Naturalist certification is a type of certification program offered by various organizations, such as universities and national parks, that provides individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to become an expert in natural history. Naturalists are knowledgeable about plants, animals, ecosystems, and other aspects of nature. They are able to identify flora and fauna, explain their ecological roles, and discuss their importance to humans.

The benefits of becoming a certified naturalist are numerous. For one thing, having this type of certification can help one secure employment in the field of conservation or environmental protection. It demonstrates to employers that the individual is knowledgeable about natural history and has the necessary skills to be an effective communicator when it comes to educating others on the importance of preserving our environment. Additionally, having this type of certification can open up opportunities for volunteer work within conservation organizations or even serve as a stepping stone for obtaining higher-level positions within these types of organizations. Finally, by becoming certified as a naturalist, individuals gain valuable insight into how humans interact with nature and can better understand how our actions affect our planet’s ecosystems.

Pro Tip: If you are interested in becoming a naturalist, it is important to research and find the right certification program for you. Look for programs that provide comprehensive training in natural sciences, such as botany, zoology, ecology, and environmental studies. It is also beneficial to find a program with field experience opportunities so that you can gain hands-on knowledge of local habitats and ecosystems.

Related: What does a Naturalist do?

Top 10 Naturalist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Naturalists today.

1. National Wildlife Federation Certified Naturalist

The National Wildlife Federation Certified Naturalist Program is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in the natural sciences, environmental education, and interpretation. The program provides an opportunity for individuals to demonstrate their commitment to the conservation of our natural resources.

It takes approximately one year to complete the requirements for the certification. In order to become certified, applicants must complete a minimum of 40 hours of approved training in natural history, ecology, and interpretation; participate in at least 20 hours of service-learning activities related to conservation; and pass an online exam.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the specific training courses taken and other associated costs such as registration fees or travel expenses. Generally speaking, it is estimated that the total cost can range from $200 - $500 USD.

In addition to completing the requirements listed above, applicants must also be members of the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) in order to apply for certification. Membership fees vary based on type (individual or family) and duration (1 year or 3 years).

2. Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guide Certification

The Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guide Certification is a program designed to train individuals in the practice of forest therapy. It is an international certification program that provides training, education, and support to those who wish to become certified forest therapy guides. The program includes both online and in-person instruction, as well as field experience.

The program consists of three levels of certification: Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. To become a Level 1 Certified Forest Therapy Guide (CFTG), you must complete an online course that covers topics such as nature connection, forest ecology, sensory awareness practices, guiding principles and ethics, and more. This course typically takes around 40 hours to complete. After completing the coursework, applicants must pass a written exam in order to receive their certification.

To become a Level 2 CFTG, applicants must have completed the Level 1 coursework and passed the written exam. They must also have at least one year of experience leading guided walks or other nature-based activities for groups or individuals. In addition to this experience requirement, applicants must also complete an additional 10 hours of online instruction covering topics such as advanced guiding skills and mentoring techniques. Upon completion of this additional instruction and passing the written exam associated with it, applicants will be awarded their Level 2 CFTG certificate.

Level 3 CFTGs are considered master guides who have demonstrated expertise in all aspects of forest therapy guiding including advanced facilitation skills and mentoring techniques. To become a Level 3 CFTG requires at least two years of experience leading guided walks or other nature-based activities for groups or individuals plus completion of an additional 20 hours of online instruction covering topics such as advanced facilitation skills and mentoring techniques. Upon completion of this additional instruction and passing the written exam associated with it, applicants will be awarded their Level 3 CFTG certificate.

The cost for each level varies depending on where you take the courses but generally ranges from $200-$500 USD per level for tuition fees plus any applicable taxes or fees associated with registering for courses or taking exams.

3. National Association for Interpretation Master Naturalist Certification

The National Association for Interpretation Master Naturalist Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in natural resource interpretation. This certification is designed to recognize those individuals who have attained a mastery of the profession, and can demonstrate their knowledge and skills through their work.

The National Association for Interpretation Master Naturalist Certification is a three-level program consisting of Core, Advanced, and Professional levels. Each level requires successful completion of an exam as well as additional training hours. The Core level requires completion of 40 hours of training, the Advanced level requires completion of 80 hours of training, and the Professional level requires completion of 120 hours of training.

To get certified at each level, applicants must complete all required coursework, pass an exam with a score of 75% or higher, submit proof of experience in the field (e.g., letters from employers), and submit documentation showing they have completed all required continuing education credits.

The cost to obtain the National Association for Interpretation Master Naturalist Certification varies depending on the level being sought. The Core Level costs $150; the Advanced Level costs $300; and the Professional Level costs $500.

4. Audubon Naturalist Society Certification

The Audubon Naturalist Society (ANS) Certification is a program designed to recognize and support individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to environmental stewardship and natural history. The certification program provides an opportunity for individuals to demonstrate their knowledge of ecology, conservation, and natural history through coursework, field experiences, and volunteer activities.

To become certified, applicants must complete a series of courses in ecology, conservation, and natural history. These courses are offered by ANS-approved providers throughout the United States. Applicants may also choose to complete additional elective courses or volunteer activities related to their interests in order to qualify for certification.

Once an applicant has completed the required courses and/or activities, they can submit an application for certification. Applications are reviewed by ANS staff who will determine if the applicant meets the criteria for certification. The process typically takes 4-6 weeks from submission of the application until notification of acceptance or denial of certification.

The cost of certification varies depending on the number of courses taken and other requirements that need to be met. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$750 USD for all required coursework plus any additional electives or volunteer activities that are needed for completion.

5. National Park Service Interpreter Training Program

The National Park Service Interpreter Training Program (NPSITP) is a comprehensive program designed to provide park rangers, naturalists, and other interpretive professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively communicate the stories of our national parks. The program consists of three levels of training: basic, intermediate, and advanced.

The Basic level provides an introduction to interpretation techniques and strategies, as well as an understanding of the history and culture of our national parks. It includes topics such as communication theory, public speaking, writing for interpretation, audience analysis, park history and cultural resources management. This level typically takes two weeks to complete.

The Intermediate level builds on the foundation established in the Basic course by providing more in-depth instruction in interpretation techniques and strategies. It also covers topics such as interpretive planning and design, resource management principles, visitor services management, and special event planning. This level typically takes four weeks to complete.

The Advanced level focuses on developing interpretive programs that are tailored to specific audiences or goals. It includes topics such as program evaluation methods, media production techniques for interpretation projects, grant writing for interpretation projects, leadership development for interpreters, and professional development opportunities for interpreters. This level typically takes six weeks to complete.

To get started in the NPSITP program you must first apply online at https://www.npsinterprettrainingprograms.org/. Once accepted into the program you will be required to pay a fee which varies depending on your location and type of training you are enrolled in (basic/intermediate/advanced). The fees range from $150 - $400 USD per week depending on your location.

6. Wildland Firefighter Training Program

Wildland Firefighter Training Program (WFTP) is a comprehensive program designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary for safe and effective wildland firefighting. The program consists of both classroom and field training, and is administered by the National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG).

The WFTP is typically completed in two parts: an initial course (S-130/190) and an advanced course (S-231). The initial course covers basic firefighting techniques, safety protocols, and risk management. It takes about 16 hours to complete this part of the program. The advanced course focuses on more specialized topics such as incident command systems, fire behavior analysis, weather forecasting, and hazardous fuels management. This part of the program takes approximately 40 hours to complete.

To get certified in the WFTP, you must first meet certain eligibility requirements set forth by NWCG. These include being at least 18 years old, having a valid driver's license or other form of identification, passing a physical fitness test, and having no prior felony convictions or other disqualifying factors. Once these requirements are met, you can register for the courses through your local U.S. Forest Service office or online through NWCG's website.

The cost of completing the WFTP varies depending on where you take it; however, most courses range from $200-$300 per person for both parts combined.

7. Leave No Trace Trainer Course

The Leave No Trace Trainer Course is an in-depth educational program designed to teach outdoor enthusiasts how to reduce their impact on the environment. The course focuses on the seven Leave No Trace principles, which are: plan ahead and prepare, travel and camp on durable surfaces, dispose of waste properly, leave what you find, minimize campfire impacts, respect wildlife, and be considerate of other visitors.

The course takes two days to complete and is typically held over a weekend. It consists of both classroom instruction and field activities that focus on applying the Leave No Trace principles in a variety of outdoor settings. Participants will learn how to effectively communicate the importance of Leave No Trace practices to others.

To get the course, participants must register through an accredited organization such as the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics or a local land management agency. The cost of the course varies depending on where it is held but typically ranges from $100-$200 per person.

8. Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner

Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner (CERP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to plan, design, implement, and monitor ecological restoration projects. The CERP program is administered by the Society for Ecological Restoration International (SER).

In order to become a Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner, applicants must meet certain prerequisites and pass an exam. Prerequisites include having at least five years of experience in ecological restoration or related fields such as ecology, natural resource management, or environmental science. Applicants must also provide evidence of their training and experience in ecological restoration methods and techniques.

The CERP exam consists of multiple choice questions that test an applicant’s knowledge of ecological restoration principles and practices. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete.

Applicants can register for the CERP exam online through SER’s website. The cost of the exam is $250 USD for members of SER and $350 USD for non-members. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their CERP certification from SER.

9. Certified Wildlife Biologist

A Certified Wildlife Biologist (CWB) is a professional designation given to individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of wildlife biology and management. This certification is awarded by The Wildlife Society, a professional organization dedicated to promoting excellence in wildlife stewardship through science and education.

To become a Certified Wildlife Biologist, an individual must meet the following requirements: hold at least a bachelor's degree in wildlife or related field; have at least five years of professional experience in the field; and pass an exam administered by The Wildlife Society.

The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and an oral presentation. The written portion covers topics such as wildlife ecology, conservation biology, population dynamics, habitat management, and wildlife law and policy. The oral presentation is designed to evaluate the applicant's knowledge and communication skills.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on whether or not you are a member of The Wildlife Society. For non-members, the fee is $400; for members, it is $200. Additionally, there is an application fee of $50 for all applicants.

Once certified, CWBs are required to maintain their certification by completing continuing education credits every three years. These credits can be earned through attending conferences or workshops related to wildlife biology and management or through publishing research papers in peer-reviewed journals.

10. Master Gardener Certification

Master Gardener Certification is a program offered by many universities and local Extension offices that provides training to individuals in the science and art of gardening. The program typically takes between one and two years to complete, depending on the specific requirements of the county or state. To become a certified Master Gardener, applicants must complete an approved course of study that includes topics such as plant identification, soil science, pest management, composting, and other gardening-related topics. After completing the coursework and passing an exam, participants receive their certification.

The cost for becoming a Master Gardener varies by location but usually ranges from $150 to $300 for the entire program. In addition to the cost of tuition, there may also be additional fees for materials or supplies needed for the coursework. Additionally, some counties or states may require that applicants attend volunteer hours at a local Extension office in order to maintain their certification.

Once certified, Master Gardeners are expected to share their knowledge with others in their community through volunteer activities such as teaching classes or providing advice at local garden centers. They may also work with local government agencies on projects related to horticulture or environmental conservation.

Do You Really Need a Naturalist Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual circumstances. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a naturalist, then having a naturalist certificate is essential. A naturalist certificate will allow you to demonstrate your knowledge and experience in the field of natural history and ecology, helping you to stand out from other job applicants. It will also provide you with the credentials needed to access certain specialized areas of research or employment opportunities.

However, if you are simply looking for a way to expand your knowledge and appreciation of nature and wildlife, then obtaining a naturalist certificate may not be necessary. There are many resources available that can help teach you about the environment without requiring certification, such as books, online courses, and field trips. Additionally, there are often volunteer opportunities at local parks or nature centers that allow individuals to get hands-on experience with the environment without the need for certification.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a naturalist certificate depends on your particular goals and interests. If becoming certified is important to you, then it may be worth investing in the necessary coursework or training required for certification. However, if certification is not an immediate goal for you then there are other ways to deepen your knowledge and appreciation of nature without needing formal credentials.

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FAQs About Naturalist Certifications

Q1. What is a Naturalist Certification?

A1. A Naturalist Certification is a credential that recognizes an individual’s knowledge, skills and abilities in the field of natural science. The certification is awarded by organizations like Nature Canada or the National Wildlife Federation, and typically requires completion of an accredited course or program focused on natural history and ecology.

Q2. How do I become certified as a Naturalist?

A2. To become certified as a Naturalist, you will need to complete an accredited course or program related to natural history or ecology. You may also need to pass an exam or demonstrate certain skills in order to receive your certification.

Q3. What are the benefits of being a Certified Naturalist?

A3. Being a Certified Naturalist offers many benefits including increased job opportunities, access to resources, recognition and respect within the professional community, and more fulfilling work experiences in the field of natural science.

Q4. What are the requirements for maintaining my Naturalist Certification?

A4. The requirements for maintaining your Naturalist Certification vary depending on which organization issued it; however, they generally include continuing education credits, attending workshops or seminars related to natural sciences, participating in field research projects, and/or submitting reports on recent discoveries or findings related to your area of expertise.

Q5. Is there a fee associated with obtaining my Naturalist Certification?

A5: Yes - most organizations offering this certification require payment of either an application fee or tuition fees for courses offered as part of their certification program.