Citizen Naturalist

begin your journey into nature learning

About the Course:

Citizen Naturalist Foundation is a field-led introductory course for adults who want to understand habitats, behaviour, ecological relationships and build a stronger, more meaningful practice of learning from nature.

This is a certification course recognised by the MoEF&CC (Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change), under Mission LiFE, with the mission to encourage individual and community action to protect and preserve the environment.

You may already enjoy birding, nature walks, photography, gardening, travel or time outdoors. This course helps connect those interests into a broader understanding of how living systems work. It is designed as an accessible first step, whether nature remains a lifelong interest or grows into citizen science, nature education, guiding, documentation, storytelling or conservation communication.

The course emphasizes practical fieldwork, empowering participants to contribute to citizen science initiatives and environmental stewardship. It’s ideal for those looking to make a meaningful impact while connecting deeply with nature.

Who is this course for

Wildlife and nature enthusiasts who want more structure than scattered self-learning

Students and working professionals exploring nature-related pathways

Photographers, travellers, gardeners and outdoor enthusiasts who want deeper context

Educators, communicators and volunteers who want a stronger natural-history foundation

Anyone aged 18 or above who has completed Class 12; no formal background in biology required

What will you learn

Read a landscape by looking at habitat, season, resources and disturbance

Observe species, behaviour, tracks, signs and interactions more carefully

Build foundations across birds, plants, insects, fungi and other life forms

Understand biodiversity, ecology and urban wildlife through connected examples

Document observations and contribute more responsibly to citizen-science platforms

Ask better field questions and find reliable resources for continued learning

Translate observation into clear, ethical and engaging nature stories

Course Details:

Location: Bengaluru and Mumbai/Pune
Format: 10-day hybrid format
Dates: October 15th to October 25th
Course Fee: 25,000+ GST

A compact hybrid course combining live online sessions, guided field learning, reflection and a residential field component. The exact schedule, city venue and stay arrangements are announced for each intake.

Approximate learning time: About 50 hours

Learning modes: Online + Self-paced learning + In-person field sessions

Residential stay: Included in course fee

Recordings: Available where applicable, live participation remains strongly recommended

Course themes

Reading landscapes and living systems

Natural history across major organism groups

Species behaviour and ecological relationships

Urban nature and human-shaped habitats

Citizen science and biodiversity documentation

Nature interpretation, ethics and storytelling

Field habits, resources and next-step pathways

Ready to begin your journey as a Citizen Naturalist?

Fill the interest form below, we can keep you informed.

Register your interest now!

      
   The Naturalist School
   107 Google reviews 
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       Posted on Google  
   
   Sandesh U 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a wonderful experience with "The Naturalist School". Their CNS Hybrid Program was extremely well designed, informative, and engaging. There was a lot to learn, but what I enjoyed most was the way the program helped me look at nature and our surroundings from a completely different perspective. The experience made me realise how much there is to observe and understand in the natural world around us—things that are always there, but which many of us simply overlook. In a way, the program opened a door to a world that had always been around me, but that I had never really noticed. The instructors were simply amazing. Their years of experience, deep knowledge, sincerity and genuine passion for nature came through in every session. More importantly, they had a wonderful ability to share their knowledge in a way that made learning interesting and meaningful. I came away from the program with a much greater appreciation and respect for nature and the ecosystems around us. I am truly grateful to The Naturalist School for conducting such a wonderful learning experience. It has certainly changed the way I look at the world around me.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   chandrashekhar kr 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My journey with The Naturalist School (TNS) has been truly meaningful and transformative. Being part of TNS has given me an opportunity to learn, explore and work closely with nature, while also helping me understand the importance of conservation and responsible tourism. What I appreciate most about TNS is its approach to learning—combining classroom knowledge with field experiences, nature walks, storytelling, interpretation and real-world conservation work. The team is passionate, supportive and always encourages us to keep learning and observing nature with curiosity. My experience with TNS has not only improved my understanding of birds, wildlife, ecosystems and biodiversity, but has also helped me develop confidence in guiding, communicating and connecting people with nature. I am grateful to be part of this journey and proud to contribute to the work of The Naturalist School. TNS is more than a learning platform—it is a community that inspires people to understand, experience and care for nature. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to deepen their connection with nature and contribute meaningfully to conservation. 🌿🐦
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Vrinda Baliga 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I recently did the Citizen Naturalist course conducted by The Naturalist School. The course was a combination of informative and engaging online lectures and hands-on activity-based learning at the Beforest Collective, Hyderabad. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and would recommend the course to anyone who wishes to deepen thier understanding of and engagement with the natural world.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Dipanjan Goswami 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have done by Certified Citizen Naturalist course from The Naturalist School (TNS). It was an awesome experience filled with knowledge & learning. The course divided between online & offline sessions by keeping the busy schedules in mind for working professionals. All the trainers were highly knowledgable & masters in their own field. The offline residential session over the weekend was cherry on the cake. A lot of field works with highly knowledgable trainers gave a lot of opportunities to know about many species which generally we overlook. Overall a highly recommended course for someone who wants to know more about nature & it's jewels.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Praneetha Indukuri 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I recently completed the CitiNat Foundation Course, and it was such an interesting and enriching experience. I went into the course knowing very little about birds, insects, plants, and the natural world around me, but every session taught me something new and made me look at nature with so much more curiosity. The sessions were engaging, informative, and explained in a way that made learning genuinely enjoyable. I especially loved how the course encouraged us to observe things we would normally walk past without noticing. I’ve come away with so much more knowledge and a deeper appreciation for the biodiversity around us.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   anand ramasamy 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I want to build my career in nature, ecology and biodiversity conservation. I've been into flora & fauna documentation since 2023, and I want to take the next step. I am waiting for the right opportunity to be trained by the right people. Glad I did the Citizen Naturalist foundation course from “The Naturalist School”. An important decision in building my Naturalist portfolio.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Nikitha Karumbaiah 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Attending The Naturalist School’s hybrid Citizen Naturalist Foundation Course in Hyderabad was an eye-opening experience. The initial online modules were equally engaging and informative, laying a solid foundation for the hands-on residential session at the Beforest Hyderabad Collective. Huge thanks to Suhas and Ashwin for a fantastic experience and for fostering such a warm community of like-minded peers. Highly recommended for anyone seeking to learn, find inspiration, and deepen their relationship with nature!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Salman Syed 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had a lovely learning experience and began to see and interpret nature and all its elements through a completely different lens thanks to The Naturalist School and the lovely team who became like family to me.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Nishad Barde 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a wonderful learning experience at The Naturalist School. The sessions were engaging, practical, and thoughtfully designed, making it easy to connect classroom concepts with real experiences in nature. The mentors are knowledgeable, approachable, and genuinely passionate about wildlife and conservation, which makes learning both inspiring and enjoyable. Whether you're just starting your nature journey or looking to deepen your understanding, I would highly recommend The Naturalist School. It's a fantastic place to learn, observe, and develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Shashidhar Bhat 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great team for biodiversity field works and training
  
 
  
  
 
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