Training

On Becoming a Master Naturalist:

The South Carolina Master Naturalist Program is currently offered through Host Site locations only (See these to the right).

Ways to Obtain Training:

On-site Training
Individuals may sign up for training through your local Host Site (see Host sites to the right). These field-based training sessions typically last 10-13 weeks, meeting all day, one day per week. Please register for On-site training here.

Advanced training is offered by Host Sites throughout the state specifically to provide additional training for Master Naturalists in a different physiographic region. Advanced training can fulfill a maximum of eight hours of your volunteer service requirement. Take sixteen hours of advanced training from at least two different physiographic regions and you can become certified as a "Statewide Master Naturalist".

Certification Levels:

Statewide Master Naturalist
Completion of Master Naturalist certification (including volunteer service) + 16 hours of Advanced Training in at least 2 different physiographic regions + specific interpretive training.  More to come on this certification type. 

Master Naturalist
Completion of either on-site training and field trips + 30 hours of volunteer service including 8 hr. of Advanced Training.

Required Paperwork for Training:

All participants who go through SC Master Naturalist training at our various Host Sites around the state are required to complete certain paperwork. Generally, this paperwork is completed on the first day of class. Occasionally, the Host Site may direct you to download, complete and bring forms, located here, with you to the first class.