Online Application and Instructions

Applications are accepted based on an interest in volunteerism, enthusiasm for the subject, a desire to gain experience and participate in natural resource education and/or conservation activities, and availability.

• Before applying, review program description and program policy and read the course guidelines on the application site (use link below).
• Complete the online application and select a training course based on your residence location.
• Applicants should live within the county of training or within a 20-mile radius of the training site (a 35 -mile radius for rural locations where training courses are limited). This is a requirement for two reasons: 1) Volunteers must be trained in the specific ecoregion where they will be performing service, and 2) partnering conservation organizations who host the training expect volunteers to contribute service locally. 

Attendance Policy:

• Candidates who indicate that they can attend all sessions will be given preference for course selection.
• You cannot miss more than 5 hours (10% of the 50 contact hours) This is a PA Master Naturalist policy and cannot be modified by the course coordinator or instructor.
• To receive certification, the 5 hours or less missed must be made up by completing an assignment or makeup of equal time and content.
• Approval of the PMN Program Coordinator is required. If total hours missed exceeds 5 hours, certification is not possible regardless of material made up.
• All absences should be discussed with the Coordinating Partner or training coordinator in advance. In case of emergencies, please notify the Coordinating Partner or training coordinator as soon as possible.

Class size per training is limited to 10-15 persons in 2025 so applying early is strongly encouraged.  Applications may be considered after the deadline if there is space in the course. Please contact your regional Program Coordinator (see below) if you have any questions.

• If selected in the first round, you will be asked to interview with a PA Master Naturalist representative.
• All candidates must complete a background check through the PA Master Naturalist program’s approved company (We do not accept outside background checks).

Individual courses may vary contact your local coordinator to see if there’s space. Contact information below.

Tuition: $425 (this includes initial training and a full year of program engagement and services).  A $75 tuition discount is offered to applications received by the early application deadline of Friday, January 2. The final deadline to apply is extended to Friday, January 16.

Questions? 

Southeast Programs: SEprogram@pamasternaturalist.org

Southwest Programs: SWprogram@pamasternaturalist.org

All other locations: info@pamasternaturalist.org