Thinking of becoming a Florida Master Naturalist Instructor?

Why should I consider becoming an FMNP Instructor?

  • There is no cost to becoming an FMNP Instructor.
  • Lead FMNP Instructors may generate programmatic funds for their educational program by receiving a portion of student tuition (up to $65/student, provided to the Instructor's organization).
  • FMNP Instructors can train their own volunteers and employees, and strengthen environmental education programs in their communities by providing training to others.
  • Student final projects may benefit the Instructor's organization by providing creative ideas and solutions that improve environmental education programming.
  • FMNP Instructors will become part of regional and statewide efforts to create a workforce of trained Master Naturalists to assist in environmental education and to promote a greater understanding of Florida’s ecosystems among residents and visitors.

What are the qualifications to become an FMNP Instructor?

  • Educational requirements include a minimum of either a Bachelor’s degree in a field of environmental science or education, or demonstrated comparable practical experience providing a variety of environmental education programs.
  • Instructors must be affiliated with an organization, agency, or group that places a priority on science-based environmental education and is willing to provide support for FMNP training (e.g., classroom, A/V equipment, etc.).
  • Individuals interested in becoming an Instructor must apply.
  • Approval of applications will be determined by qualifications of the applicant, appropriateness of the sponsor organization, Instructor openings, and geographic considerations. Applications undergo peer review.
  • Approved FMNP Instructors must attend FMNP Instructor training, given remotely by conference call (no charge).

What are the responsibilities of FMNP Instructors?

  • Instructors are expected to provide at least one class per year. Additional classes may be scheduled as desired.
  • Instructors book their class with FMNP no later than eight weeks prior to the start of their FMNP class.
  • Student registration is performed by the UF/IFAS Office of Conferences and Institutes (OCI) and is not the responsibility of Instructors.
  • Instructors lead classroom lectures, discussions, and field trips; monitor students’ progress and attendance; and assist in completion of final projects.
  • Upon completion of the course, Instructors submit a list of successful and unsuccessful FMNP students, and return unused student manuals, pins, and patches to the University of Florida Conference Coordinator.

How do Instructors present information?

  • Each FMNP Module (Freshwater Wetlands, Coastal Systems, and Upland Habitats) consists of 40 educational contact hours. FMNP courses can be scheduled to best fit the needs of Instructors and students (daily, weekly, weekends, etc.).
  • Class size is limited to 20 students. Classes include classroom learning, field trips, videos, practical interpretation skills, and group final projects. There is no final exam.
  • All FMNP materials (four videos, 12 slide presentations, Instructor and Student manuals) and details on their use are provided at no cost to Instructors.
  • FMNP materials cover ecology, habitats, wildlife, interpretation, ethics, and other topics to train Master Naturalist students to assist with environmental education programs.
  • FMNP materials are designed to assist Instructors to personalize training to their region while still providing a statewide perspective on Florida environments, ecological processes, and conservation issues.

How are Instructors trained?

Each approved FMNP applicant must attend a free 2-hour conference call training to be certified as an Instructor.

Training is offered frequently, usually once a month. All new Instructors are consulted to determine the best day and time for a training call. For more information, please contact the program office to discuss: info@masternaturalist.org or 239-658-3400.

Topics covered in the training include:

  • History of the FMNP
  • Instructor requirements
  • Overview of the three Modules (Upland Habitats, Freshwater Wetlands and Coastal Systems)
  • Overview of FMNP Instructor and student workbooks
  • Final project guidelines for students
  • Field trip logistics
  • Student course evaluations
  • Logistics and administration
  • Marketing your FMNP class
  • Chapters and future goals
  • Special Topics classes

Instructor FAQs

For more information, visit Instructor FAQs