We've been training marine naturalists since 1994.
Our marine naturalist training course (MNTP) is an intensive multi-day overview of the natural history of the San Juan Islands and the marine waters of Washington and Southern British Columbia (known as the Salish Sea). This course includes an in-depth treatment of the ecology and conservation of local marine species, presented by highly trained local naturalists, environmental educators, and scientists. In the spring and summer of 2025, we are offering MNTP sessions that will be dynamic, high-quality hybrid experiences that leave graduates qualified as a regional professional or volunteer naturalist.
Come Interested, Leave Qualified
Participants can earn a Whale Museum naturalist certification by completing an extra 10-hour practicum, which can be arranged during this course. Participants don’t have to participate in the field trips to be eligible for the certification. Completion of this course also entitles you to become a member of the Salish Sea Association of Marine Naturalists (SSAMN). Clock hour credits are available.
The Whale Museum’s Marine Naturalist Training Program will enhance your opportunity to work as a naturalist or take advantage of volunteer opportunities. Presentations will include detailed information on the orca whales and other marine mammals and seabirds of the Salish Sea. The sessions will be a mixture of virtual lectures and optional in-person field trips. Hands-on learning and field identification will be emphasized during the field trip portion. Instructors are Whale Museum staff, regional professionals, marine scientists and environmental educators.
Dates of Spring Session:
Virtual Portion: April 8-12, 2025
Optional in-person field trips: April 25-27, 2025
Dates of Summer Session:
Virtual Portion: July 8-12, 2025
Optional in-person field trips: July 25-27, 2025
Register here for either session
Price and What Is Included:
Virtual Program Tuition Rates:
• $450 Member Rate (for members of The Whale Museum/Orca Adopters)
• $500 Non-Member Rate (includes membership/Orca Adoption)
Tuition includes class sessions (lectures) and all class materials.
In-Person Field Trip Participation Fee:
• $350 Member Rate (for members of The Whale Museum/Orca Adopters/SSAMN)
• $400 Non-Member Rate (includes membership/Orca Adoption/SSAMN)
Field Trip Fee includes an opening reception; transportation during the field trips to/from The Whale Museum and field trip sites; light breakfast, lunches and snacks during field trip days; all class materials and field trips. Field trips will include activities such as a marine wildlife boat trip; birding; a geology hike; visits to San Juan County Land Bank/False Bay/West side areas and Lime Kiln Point State Park; intertidal life exploration; and tours of The Whale Museum and Lime Kiln Point State Park Lighthouse. Field trips are limited to 29 spots, so don't wait to reserve your spot!
All MNTP class days are full days. Please note: participants are responsible for their own accommodations and travel to SJI if needed.
For the virtual portion, a limited number of Diversity & Inclusion scholarships are available for college/graduate students. Click here to apply for a scholarship. Please note: if applying for a scholarship, do not register - simply follow the instructions for application submission.
For more information, contact: Tracie Merrill at tracie@whalemuseum.org or (360) 378-4710 ext. 23.