Apprentice Beekeeper Level

Photo: Oregon Master Beekeeper Program

The Apprentice Beekeeper is the first level of certification in the Oregon Master Beekeeper Program. This level is designed to provide solid information and support, with the goal of increasing retention of new beekeepers as they develop confidence in their ability to keep bees. The training, experience, and guidance provided at the Apprentice Beekeeper level provide the student with:

The knowledge and confidence to keep bees in Langstroth hives
Hands-on experience working with bees, including use of tools and equipment
Information about the costs and "how-to's" of obtaining bees to get started as a beekeeper
Opportunities for training and mentorship
Exposure to resources to improve skills and stay current in beekeeping

Apprentice Program Enrollment Process

The Apprentice Program is open enrollment - if a mentor is available in your area you may begin at any time. If one is not available, we can hold your name on the contact list until a spot is open. The first step is to put your name on the Contact List. Once applications are received, we assign people a spot in the program based on their experience level and the availability of mentors in their area. Program fees are collected, and the registration is finalized.

Alternatively, if a mentor is not currently available in your area, or you have less than 2 years' experience, we can offer you a spot in the 'Getting Started with Bees' program. If a student is interested in continuing on in the Apprentice program, those who have earned their 'Getting Started with Bees' certificate will be given priority consideration for available mentor matching.

Please note that student packets and certificates can only be mailed to addresses within the United States and Canada.

Apprentice program contact list

Who can apply?

Individuals 18 years or older with 2 or more years' beekeeping experience
or
Those who have earned a 'Getting Started with Bees' certificate

Please note that student packets and certificates can only be mailed to addresses within the United States and Canada.

Program fee

The program fee is $300; $100 for those who have earned a 'Getting Started with Bees' certificate

Participation criteria

18 years or older
Access to a hive
Access to a computer and reliable internet connection
Ability to travel for mentor visits (typically 30 miles or less)

You'll have access to...

9 online, self-paced class modules
A bonus module about native bee biology from the Oregon Bee Atlas Master Melittologist Program
A library of 'Virtual Mentor' videos about beekeeping management produced by the OSU Honey Bee Lab
An assigned mentor
A student packet including program materials and hardcopies of selected OSU Extension publications about beekeeping
Monthly Zoom discussion forums where your questions can be answered by OSU Honey Bee Lab staff and OMB experts
Networking opportunities with fellow beekeepers in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho

Certification requirements

Watch 9 online class modules including a Bee Sting and Anaphylaxis Recognition module
Pass an open book exam
Earn 6 education points - knowledge gained beyond the course modules
Submit 4 field worksheets signed by your mentor
Submit 4 hive maintenance log entries
Complete these requirements within 2 years to become a certified Apprentice
You are now eligible to apply to the Journey program

Online course overview

Apprentice students are provided approximately 16 hours of professionally filmed, self-paced classroom training via Canvas, OSU's learning management platform. This means distance or scheduling conflicts do not affect the student's opportunity to participate in the classes. Additional monthly online discussion forums give students a chance to ask questions. In-person classes occasionally may be offered in some locations - schedules are communicated at the beginning of the year.

Module 1: Honey bee biology
Module 2: Hives and equipment
Module 3: Working bees
Module 4: Seasonal colony management - spring and summer
Module 5: Pests - Varroa mite management and treatment options
Module 6: Pathogens
Module 7: Pollination, bee botany, and products of the hive
Module 8: Seasonal colony management: fall and winter
Module 9: Bee Sting Reactions and Anaphylactic Shock Recognition
Optional bonus module: Native bee biology from the Oregon Bee Atlas Master Melittologist Program

Required textbook

We are currently using The Beekeeper's Handbook by Diana Sammataro and Alphonse Avitabile, 5th edition. Each student is asked to obtain their own copy - it is widely available from online booksellers.

What if I have already earned a 'Getting Started with Bees' certificate?

If you have already earned a 'Getting Started with Bees' certificate, the only requirements you will have to complete as an Apprentice student are:

(6) additional Education Points
(4) examples of your colony log notes
(4) Field Worksheets signed off by your mentor

You do not have to repeat the class coursework or exam

Challenge to Apprentice Certification

Beekeepers with 5 years or more of current experience may challenge the Apprentice certification. This allows experienced beekeepers the opportunity to quickly move to the Journey level and/or mentor for the program.

Learn more about the Challenge option

Photo: Jen Larsen

Extension Service