Amphibian Foundation Online Learning Institute - Available Courses

The Master Herpetologist Program: Conservation Edition is offered online, and is taught by a diversity of herpetologists from around the world.

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Online Course

This intensive class provides an introduction to applied herpetology and explores some of the projects, methods, and tools researchers are using to preserve the world's herpetological biodiversity. Amphibians and reptiles are some of the world's most imperiled species, and this class provides an opportunity to learn about what is currently being done to help them.

Course content includes classification and identification of amphibians and reptiles, 'herping' equipment, frog calls, attracting amphibians/reptiles and backyard wildlife habitat, survey techniques and equipment, repatriation and translocation programs, head-starting & assisted metamorphosis, and captive propagation with experimental release into the wild. This course is a deep dive into the world of amphibians and reptiles, and is intended to create a foundation of conservation knowledge upon which students can build.


The course fee includes lectures, handouts, exam, and optional live Zoom discussions with the Lead Instructor.

The class is intended for adults. Please contact us before registering someone under the age of 18

Registration is not open yet for the Master Herpetologist: Conservation Edition, but if you sign up for the mailing list, we will let you know as soon as it opens.


Sign up for the Conservation Edition mailing list


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.

Would you like to give Master Herp registration as a gift?

Click here for instructions on how to give the Master Herpetologist Program as a gift. We provide instructions and also an image you can use to surpise your student!

Registering without PayPal

You do not need a PayPal account to register for classes at AF, just a debit or a credit card. If you are having trouble, here's a short instructional video covering how to register without a PayPal account'


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Member Discount

Members of the Amphibian Foundation receive a $20 discount on the Master Herpetologist Program, and a $15 discount on the Critters & Cabernet series.

Member registration links are provided on our Patreon page.


Become a member today!

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 8-10 hours per two-week session to digest the information (up to 5 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 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 final exam.

Bulletin of the Chicago Herpetological Society

'The Amphibian Foundation’s Master Herpetologist Certification Program'

A wonderful review of the course by Amelia Pollock


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