Programs
Gain hands on training and expert instruction with this new certificate in Sustainable Urban Beekeeping. This is a comprehensive course suitable for beginners and experienced beekeepers alike. Learn to use organic non-chemical approaches to keeping bees, while balancing the needs of the environment for pollinator diversity. Developed and taught by experts in the field, the curriculum is both current and relevant.
Program Goals
The goals of this program are to provide the necessary theory, skills and behaviours for people to set up their own (urban) beekeeping practices and/or expand on their existing knowledge in this growing field. They include:
- Providing best practices in beekeeping so students understand how to become responsible beekeepers
- Identifying and managing disease in the hives and understanding how to undertake integrated pest management
- Providing professional development opportunities to new and existing professionals in the apiculture, horticulture, gardening, etc. industries and providing credibility in this expanding market
- Promoting compliance with the laws and bylaws surrounding beekeeping in Vancouver
- Providing a chance for students to overcome any fears associated with bees dispelling myths surrounding fear of bees
- Providing an understanding of the difference among bees, wasps, and other similar species
- Facilitating an understanding and appreciation of honeybees and other bees and the crucial role that pollinators play in maintaining a healthy ecological system along with the nuances of that in an urban environment
- Teaching a conscious way of living and working with nature
- Providing an understanding of the importance – from a systems perspective – of responsibly managing bees
- Recognizing products that come from the hive and how they can be used
This program curriculum provides a strong theoretical and practical foundation in beginner beekeeping. Graduates will be at an advantage compared to others in the industry, as they will have both theoretical and practical preparation, taught by industry professionals. Five of the six courses have a practical component. Most other programs/courses have minimal or no practical application. To earn a certificate, students must complete a total of 6 courses and 36 instructional hours. There is also a one-hour exam that students must write upon completion of all of the courses. Students will have two years to complete all requirements for the certificate.
Entrance and Completion Requirements
Entrance requirements are:
- Adult student (19 years of age or older)
- Fluent in written and spoken English
Program completion requirements include:
- Successful completion of all six courses
- Successful completion of final exam at the end (in order to write the exam the student must submit an application for certification)
Students will receive either a Satisfactory (Pass) or Unsatisfactory (Fail) mark in all their courses and exam. A student must receive a minimum of 65% on the final exam to pass. Students have up to two years to complete the certificate.
Program Costs and Schedule
May 2020 entry. Program runs for 2-3 months.
The entire program costs $625, which includes the exam.
Courses can also be taken on an individual basis.
Please see 'Courses' Tab for individual course dates and costs.
Certificate Requirements
You need not apply ahead of time to take the certificate. Courses can be taken on an individual basis. Once all courses are complete, students may apply for certification. All requirements must be completed within two years of starting the program.