How to Become a Certified California Naturalist

How to Become a Certified California Naturalist

Back in 2021, after Covid started, I decided it would be a good time to take some classes related to nature. Nature was always a place of solace for me and I found empowerment through the plants. I decided that I wanted to learn as much as I could about them. After doing some research, I decided to take the California Naturalist program through the UC ANR! 

Here’s how to take the California Naturalist program in order to become a certified California Naturalist today! 

The main steps to become a CA Naturalist are: 

1. Understand the Program

  • The California Naturalist Program is run by the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR).
  • Its goal is to foster environmental literacy, citizen science participation, and community engagement in conservation.

2. Meet Basic Requirements

  • Must be at least 18 years old (or have program-specific approval for youth participation).
  • Have an interest in natural history, ecology, and environmental stewardship.
  • Ability to commit to 40+ hours of training (usually over 8–12 weeks)

3. Enroll in a Certified Course

  • Courses are offered through partner organizations such as nature centers, parks, museums, and nonprofit organizations across California.
  • Classes can be in-person, hybrid, or fully online.
  • Cost varies but is typically $300–$400 (scholarships sometimes available).

4. Complete the Training

  • Training covers:
    • California ecology and natural history
    • Conservation principles
    • Citizen science participation
    • Interpretation and communication skills
  • Includes field trips, hands-on projects, and lectures.

5. Develop a Capstone Project

  • You’ll design and complete a Capstone Project demonstrating your ability to apply what you learned.
  • Examples:
    • Leading a nature walk
    • Creating educational materials
    • Conducting a citizen science survey

6. Pass Assessments

  • Complete assignments and quizzes to ensure understanding.
  • Maintain active participation in the course.

7. Get Certified

  • After finishing all requirements, you’ll receive a California Naturalist Certification and be added to the statewide network.

8. Continue Engagement:

  • Certification opens doors to:
    • Advanced training (Climate Stewards, Fire Naturalist programs)
    • Volunteer opportunities
    • Citizen science projects (eBird, iNaturalist, etc.)
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