The Amphibian Foundation Online Learning Institute is the world's premiere online resource for herpetological studies and certification.

100% Online | 8 & 16 Week Programs | Courses for ages 12-17 & 18+

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Online Courses

The Amphibian Foundation offers, through the Online Learning Institute, a diverse catalog of courses, all focusing on amphibians and reptiles. Whether you are interested in getting certifed as a Master Herpetologist for career or resume building, taking a college-level course in global Herpetology, taking a deep-dive into the reptiles and amphibians of the Southeastern United States, or learning from zoological experts on best practices for the captive management of herpetofauna — we have over 100 expert instructors from around the world providing their expertise through compelling lectures, which can all be watched on the student's schedule.

These unique classes offer perspectives directly from the herpetologists, researchers, scholars, and experts. After the certification programs, certified Master Herpetologists are invited to a private global network for further career building, posting of opportunities, and topic discussions.


Master Herpetologist Program • Southeastern Master Herpetologist
Biology of the Amphibians • Biology of the Reptiles
Husbandry & Captive Management
Junior Master Herpetologist Program


Courses are offered on the Moodle Platform

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Metamorphosis Meadow at AF
The Amphibian Research and Conservation Center at AF. Nicknamed 'Metamorphosis Meadow' this outdoor facility houses some of the US's most imperiled amphibians for conservation studies.

College & Adult Courses

Why take the Master Herpetologist Program?

First and foremost, the Master Herpetologist Program is an intensive class in herpetology, covering the major groups in detail. While the instructors aim to make the material accessible to the widest audience possible, students should anticipate spending between 6-8 hours per two-week session to digest the information (up to 4 hours/week).

The students so far have come from a wide range of backgrounds including: college and graduate students, educators, agency professionals, naturalists, and herp enthusiasts. Typically students are interested in gaining knowledge and connections in the field of herpetology, and career building with including certification as a Master Herpetologist on their resume.

Certified Master Herpetologists have gone onto further advance their careers and knowledge in academia, state/federal agencies, and the zoological field. Master Herpetologists are invited to a global private Slack network to continue conversations, herping, and share opportunities once the course is over.

The certificate also serves as documentation of program completion, including passing the comprehensive final exam.