Beekeeping is hard. So, how do you learn it all or even get started? Turns out, lots of beeks, aspiring and otherwise, are turning to online beekeeping courses.

Before proceeding, a little Truth-in-Advertising is in order. As a University professor, I have taught online courses. I have also taken several online courses including the University of Montana(UMT) Online Master Beekeeping Certificate program. I had specific reasons for choosing the UMT program. These won’t be your reasons. If you would like to more info, contact me.

HOW ONLINE BEEKEEPING CLASSES WORK

Keep in mind, each program is different, but...

Generally speaking, online beekeeping courses are either structured or non-structured (my words).

Structured programs tend to be University based and have ‘Start’ and ‘End’ dates. These courses have text books, forum participation requirements, video based lectures, timed exams, projects, and (gulp) grades. Topics follow a strict order. Material can be reviewed at any time, however, tests, assignments, and special projects have strict due dates.

Non Structured program tend to be much cheaper (sometimes free) and more flexible, offering the student access to curated lecture/demo videos, reference material, and PowerPoint presentations. Production quality is head-and-shoulders above typical homespun YouTube videos. Interaction with instructors or other students is typically minimal, and is accomplished via email or messaging. No exams or projects are required to complete the course. Most non-structured programs are self paced - there are no deadlines for covering course material.

TOP 5 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR SELF BEFORE ENROLLING IN AN ONLINE BEEKEEPING COURSE

1. What are My Goals?
If you want a strong beekeeping “Credential”, a university program is your best bet. These are more time consuming and expensive. If you are after a solid grounding for your hobby, a non-structured program is a good choice.

2. How Much Time Do I Have?
Structured programs can take 6-7 hours (and sometimes much more) per week.
Non-Structured programs tend to me more self-paced and therefore, more flexible.

3. How’s My Internet Connection?
A good connection is critical if your program requires timed exams and assignments. If you’re taking a timed limited test and your connection crashes, the clock doesn’t stop.

4. Where Do I Live?
You know where you live, but your instructors don’t. Courses can contain geography specific information (e.g. dealing with snow in Ohio or state laws in Montana). Be aware of this going in and adapt.

5. Does Ambiguity Bother Me?
Beekeeping is squishy and inexact. With any online beekeeping course, you will likely encounter contradictions, challenges, and local folklore. In the end, you’ll have to decide what works best for you.

SOME EXAMPLES OF ONLINE BEEKEEPING CLASSES

The following examples are not comprehensive, but are meant to give you an idea of how online beekeeping courses are structured. Check course websites for prices, course content, and class schedules.

Udemy
Beekeeping Classes\
Udemy is an online learning platform offering classes in many area. At this writing Udemy offers seven beekeeping classes. Backbone of these classes are on demand videos with articles and downloadable resources.

HoneyBeesOnline.com
This program has been developed as part of a working beekeeping operation. The approach is strictly self paced with a series of videos taught by a master beekeeper. Courses can be purchased individually or in a bundle.

Penn State Extension Service\
Beekeeping 101
This online course seems mostly geared for beginning beekeepers. A “Best Practices of Experienced Beekeepers” segment is included.. This course won a 2013 Webby Award for Internet excellence.

Cornell University
Master Beekeeping Certificate
This 15 month program is a blend of online and onsite teaching. The course is recommended for beekeepers with at least three years beekeeping experience.

Ohio State Beekeepers Association\
A Web Based Introductory Beekeeping Training Program
This introductory course is comprised of over 30 videos, and PowerPoint productions. This curriculum covers equipment, technique, and spring/winter colony management. An Online-Textbook supports the course. Much of the material is heard to Ohio weather.

University of Montana\
Online Beekeeping Certificate Program
The UMT Online Beekeeping Certificate Program is made up of three modules: Apprentice, Journeyman, and Master. Each module is purchased separately. All modules are structured. Students in the Master Beekeeping Courses must complete a research project.