• Adult Programs & Classes @ AF

Amphibian Foundation In-person Learning for Adults

Herpetology, the study of amphibians and reptiles, is typically a university course, only available to college students. The Amphibian Foundation offers a live and in-person Master Herpetologist Program, taught by AF staff and conservation partners, at our facility in Atlanta, with other educational and training courses. Many of our programs offer certification and are open to all (18+).

Educational & Certification Programs

Master Herpetologist Program

The Master Herpetologist Program is a specialized certification program designed as a regional course in herpetology. Developed for individuals seeking advanced knowledge and skills in herpetology, the course covers in-depth topics such as species identification, biology, ecology, behavior, conservation, field research techniques, and rehabilitation. Participants engage in both classroom learning and hands-on fieldwork, including the (optional) handling of various amphibians and reptiles. The program and certification are ideal for professionals in wildlife conservation, educators, researchers, and enthusiasts who wish to learn about to herpetofaunal biology, conservation, and management.

16 week certification program. $400

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Venomous Training & Certification Programs

Venomous Training & Certification Program - Level I

Our training course is for anyone over 18 that is interested in expanding their knowledge and skillset to safely work with venomous reptiles. If you are a land manager, environmental consultant, first responder, zoo professional, herpetology enthusiast, photographer, military personnel, government worker, or private citizen looking to learn how to safely handle and relocate venomous reptiles, this course is for you!

Weekend Workshop $325

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Venomous Competency Training

Students who have become certified in our Level I Venomous Training & Certification Program are invited to return for Venomous Competency Training, which is also offered every other month at the Amphibian Foundation, in Atlanta.

Saturday Workshop $199

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Critters & Cabernet - 21+

This is the 21+ version of our popular children's program — Critter Camp. C & C is a casual learning experience in series format, so we focus on a specific topic or group of animals each month.

'Reptiles and wine — What could go wrong?'

Each Critters and Cabernet session lasts for 2 hours, and includes lessons mixed with live animal demonstrations and handling (if desired). There is, of course, no obligation to hold animals. The sessions occur in our classroom, on the second floor of the Amphibian Foundation.

2 hour program, meets the first Friday of every month. $30

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AF Venom Staff

Marjan Ghadrdan

Venomous Programs Coordinator

Sami Netherton

Venom Instructor

Roxana Pena Popo

Assistant Venom Instructor

Vahab Rajaei

Assistant Venom Instructor

Conservation Research Bridge Program

The Conservation Research Bridge Program is developed for students to spend 1-3 semesters onsite in Atlanta, as Research Assistants, based at the Amphibian Foundation. As a gap-year program, it is available to people before, during, or after college, and allows students to explore conservation research as a potential career field, while gaining the training needed to become a successful scientist, and collaborating with regional professionals from agencies, zoos, and universities. Tuition varies by student and available scholarships.

Typical Bridge Program Schedule
(Varies by semester/season)

Monday Course Work, Independent Study
Tuesday Conservation Labs, Biology of the Amphibians
Wednesday Field Work
Thursday Urban Ecology
Friday Conservation Labs, Venomous Training

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