The Junior Master Herpetologist Program is offered as an 8 week virtual class, hosted by the Amphibian Foundation. It is based on our acclaimed Master Herpetologist Program (for adults) and adapted for a younger audience. The Junior Master Herpetologist Program is perfect for young learners, aged 12-17 interested in amphibians and reptiles as well as those interested in exploring the field of herpetology.

The Junior Master Herpetologist Program is lead by Master Herpetologist and Lead Venomous Instructor, Maryann Barbon and instructed by multiple AF Master Herpetologist virtual educators.

The Junior Master Herpetologist Program is a combination of synchronous and asynchronous learning, allowing students to process the information at their own pace, and to enroll in the course from anywhere in the world. There will be weekly 1 hour live sessions on Saturdays, in addition to the pre-recorded lectures and assignments on the topics below. Students are encouraged to attend the live sessions on Saturdays, but it is not required. During this hour, students will be able to ask questions of our instructors as well as participate in our live animal demonstrations. Students are welcome and encouraged to introduce their own pet amphibians and reptiles, as well. In each week, the live sessions will be offered at 2 different times (1 am & 1 pm EST for ages 12-14; and 12am & 12pm for ages 15-17), so hopefully students wishing to attend the live sessions can join one of them.

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Course Schedule - Class starts Saturday, January 6, 2024

• Week 1 - Introduction to Amphibians & Reptiles
• Week 2 - Caecilians & Salamanders
• Week 3 - Frogs & Toads
• Week 4 - Tuatara & Lizards
• Week 5 - Snakes
• Week 6 - Turtles & Crocodilians
• Week 7 - Study Sessions
• Week 8 - Final Exam

Students who complete the course successfully will be certified Junior Master Herpetologists. The registration fee covers all lectures, handouts, and reading materials & the certificate.

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Are you under the age of 12, but would still like to join us in the Junior Master Herpetologist Program?

While the class is designed for 12-17 year old students, we realize there are a lot of passionate and advanced young 'herpetologists in the making' out there, and we want to be as inclusive as possible. We are happy to make exceptions, and would like to connect with younger learners and their families before admitting students under the age of 10. If you are 10 or 11, and feel you would enjoy a class with older students, you may register as well.

If you are under the age of 10 and would like to take this class, please fill out this form, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.