Courses of Study through eCornell 2024-2025 
    
    Nov 23, 2024  
Courses of Study through eCornell 2024-2025

Master Beekeeping Certificate


In eCornell Certificate Programs  

This series of courses equips beekeepers from the hobby to the commercial level with the concepts, knowledge, and best management practices needed to pass Cornell University’s Master Beekeeping Certificate written, oral, and field examinations.

By the end of this series of courses on beekeeping, you will have the skills and knowledge needed to keep colonies healthy and productive year after year. You’ll be able to expand the amount, quality, and type of bee products and services you produce, and determine if you want to take advantage of the business opportunities that beekeeping can provide. You will gain a deep understanding of honey bees as living organisms and be able to navigate controversial topics so you can communicate with credibility in the beekeeping community. Lastly, you will be able to act as a resource to educate new beekeepers and participate in bee research and outreach. 

In order to receive the final certificate, students must contribute meaningfully to a set number of discussions, moderated by Emma Mullen, Extension Associate, and pass the written, oral, and field exams at Dyce Lab. The exam series includes a written exam, the delivery of a presentation, and a field exam where individuals will demonstrate key beekeeping skills. A Cornell University Master Beekeeping Certificate from Cornell University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Department of Entomology will be awarded to individuals who successfully complete the required coursework and receive a passing grade on all portions of the exam series.

Please note there is a prerequisite of three years’ minimum experience in order to enroll in the program.

Key Takeaways


  • Apply knowledge of honey bee evolution and behavior to better identify and respond to the needs of your honey bees
  • Use systematic hands-on techniques to support your colonies’ ability to thrive, keeping your colonies healthy year after year and achieving your specific objectives
  • Prevent and control pests and diseases that interfere with honey bee health and productivity
  • Explore the possibilities and considerations of how you can both profit from and contribute to the success of these amazing pollinators

What You’ll Earn


  • Master Beekeeping Certificate from Cornell College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Who Should Enroll


  • Beekeepers with at least three years of experience 
  • Beekeepers seeking advanced depth and breadth of knowledge to increase the success of their operation, extend their business opportunities, and gain credibility as a resource in the beekeeping community

Total Investment


15 months to complete all courses.

How to Enroll


For more information and to enroll, please visit Master Beekeeping Certificate.