The course consists of three parts plus a final exam.

The three parts of the course are a written (reading) portion, a video lesson portion, and self-led fieldwork. Each section consists of multiple units and should take approximately twenty hours each to complete, for a total of sixty hours logged in order to qualify to take the exam.

As of the date of this writing, the written and field portions are complete and available to enrolled candidates immediately. The video portions are still being produced. Approximately a third of the video hours are available now, with the remainder still in production. Students are not required to wait until all video lessons are available and may take their exam after watching the videos already posted.

You may begin your coursework at any time and proceed at your own pace until you have completed all the requirements.

Part One: Reading Requirements

Part Two: Video Requirements

Part Three: Self-led Fieldwork

Completing The Course

Once you have completed the above requirements, the next step is to take the final exam. Respondants must score at least 85 points (Junior Program) or 95 points (Guide Program) to pass. You may edit your answers or retake the test as many times as needed to acheive a passing grade.

After passing the final exam, simply submit your completion survey and you will receive your certificate within two weeks (usually faster).

What Happens Next?

You can earn your Certified Herpetological Guide (CHG) certification as a stand-alone achievement, but we hope that this is just the first step towards your being an ongoing valued member of the Collective.

Anyone who wishes is free to simply complete the course and receive their certificate with no further obligation. You may list your certification on your CV, resume, or any place else you would like. However, we hope you will continue learning and stay involved with The Herpetology Collective.

We are currently developing a Certified Herpetological Interpreter course. This course, which comes after the CJH and CHG courses, focuses on honing your skills in sharing your knowledge and passion about reptiles, amphibians, and environmental conservation. Graduates of the CHI course are eligible to teach portions of available THC content in-person in their local areas. Instructors who take part in this hybrid learning structure will retain a portion of the tuition from the students that attend their workshops.

We are also developing a membership program. To maintain your standing as a THC member, you will need to gain continuing education and log vovlunteer hours annually. We plan to also offer Associate Memberships for those who may want to support THC's mission and access the learning content without the educational and volunteering burdens.

Drop us a line at hivemind@herpcollective.org if you would like to be notified when the above offerings are made available.