It was developed by entomologists and beekeepers with decades of experience. Two entomologists/beekeepers were on OR are on other master beekeeper programs. The idea in mind was to develop a program of standardized education that is more comprehensive than regular beekeeping classes. It includes topics on taxonomy, biology, botany, genetics, pesticides, diseases, pests, and economics. We teach you
how to be a productive honey producer - over time. Each course is 4.5 hours long and taught by experienced beekeepers, who give their own two cents during the lectures. We developed study guide books (one per class) based on certification exam material. For example, the first book would include 100% of the exam material. Third book, well, you get the picture. We also include material from classes I taught while at University of Illinois. We promote the joining of local beekeeping associations and finding a mentor. In fact, they are requirements of our program. You learn your hands on practice through these local associations, and we supply a list of them for you to choose. We also give you a list of beekeeping equipment suppliers. We are always in need of new instructors (i.e. those with greater or equal to 7 years of beekeeping), and they earn public service/mentoring credit at a rate that is faster than mentoring alone. We follow you through the program and offer examinations that test your knowledge of the material. If you're in the program, you can't move forward without a passing grade. However, we do offer the first 3 classes to the general public who want to learn more about bees and pollinators. As always, post here for questions, or you can reach me at [email protected]
Cheers,
Dr. Moneen Jones
Director, Midwest Master Beekeeper Program