Online Field Guide Course

Receive a comprehensive introduction to Field Guiding (FGASA-endorsed) from the comfort of your own home.

Comprehensive course

Get lectures from a diverse range of highly experienced EcoTraining instructors who are specialists in various fields within nature and wildlife.

A comprehensive introduction to field guiding. This eight-week FGASA online course covers all 17 Field Guide modules, including theory reviews, workbook support, and theory assessments. EcoTraining’s experienced instructors deliver the programme via live interactive lectures, which include videos, graphics, and quizzes. The syllabus covers a broad spectrum of subjects including ecology, animal behaviour, conservation management, and more.

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What to expect from the Online Field Guide Course

Many subjects covered

This course covers many subjects including: Introduction to guiding in the natural environment; Creating a guided nature experience; Geology; Weather and Climate; Basic ecology; Astronomy; Biomes of South Africa; Basic taxonomy; Botany and Grasses; Fish; Amphibians; Arthropods; Reptiles; Birds; Mammals; Animal Behaviour; Conservation Management; Historical Human Habitation.

Specialist instructors

Online participants will receive lectures from a diverse range of specialist instructors, which will include: In-depth coverage of all modules; Theory reviews; Live Q&A with the lecturer and other participants; Workbook support; Quizzes.

Sneak peek of the course

Watch the video to get a sneak peek of the course and its setup.

Certification & accreditation

EcoTraining is an FGASA (Field Guide Association of South Africa) endorsed and CATHSSETA (Sector Education Training Authority) accredited training provider.

After completing the online course and theory exam, students will have achieved the FGASA theory component of the Field Guide (NQF2) course.

Participants will have the opportunity to write FGASA theory exams online.

What you can expect to graduate with

Entry level requirements

Recommended eBook

If you are thinking of enrolling in the EcoTraining Field Guide course, we highly recommend you buy the ‘Your Guide to Guide’ eBook.

Course dates

23 July – 12 September 2025

*Please note: Registration for the Online Field Guide course will close on 14 July 2025 before the start of the course.

FAQ about the Online Field Guide Course

Why should I take the Online Field Guide Course?

This course is a comprehensive introduction to field guiding. This eight-week FGASA online course covers all 17 Field Guide modules, including theory reviews, workbook support, and theory assessments. EcoTraining’s experienced instructors deliver the programme via live interactive lectures, which include videos, graphics, and quizzes. The syllabus covers a broad spectrum of subjects including ecology, animal behaviour, conservation management, and more.

Have more questions? Check out our general FAQ page or get in touch for more information.

Testimonials

“Because the camp is unfenced, I really love waking up and seeing what animal tracks where left during the night. Waking up with an elephant standing at my tent was a bit scary, but also very cool. The whole experience here has been fantastic. A word of advice: If you know on the inside it’s for you, do it. Listen to your gut and trust it. Being here has given me peace of mind. It makes me happy and truly soothes my soul.”

Sam BakelAustralia

"During the course I rediscovered my love for birding - something that I have enjoyed since I was little - and one of my biggest highlights was learning tracking and trailing with Renias Mhlongo. It put me out of my comfort zone and really challenged me, which I loved. Being part of a group of all different cultures and making new friends has been really special. After the course ends, I’m definitely planning on continuing my career in guiding, where ever it may be."

Rufus CottrelUK

"I already feel I can go into the industry with a contribution to add, thanks to this course. It all seemed impossible before, but now it’s real and feasible. I love the course, the camps, the instructors and I am learning so much and having so much fun too. We have built a beautiful community here, all with a common goal and wanting the same things.”

Liam MueenuddinUSA

“The online course teaches skills that can be translated to wherever you are working. You really don’t need any background knowledge to do the course, as the modules build on each other. The course opens your eyes to the earth itself. I believe it’s important to have an understanding of nature, which is what EcoTraining offers.”

Kaitlyn CampbellUSA

"It has been so refreshing to be somewhere where you live by the sun and weather and not your watch - to totally switch off from the world and not know what will happen next. I have had so many highlights - from seeing hyena on foot, having lions and rhino walk around our vehicle, hearing an elephant right outside my tent and even seeing incredible bush paintings - every week gets better."

Bert JansenBelgium

"What an amazing month! Friends made for life and I learnt so much . Thank you to the three instructors Norman, Tsundzukani and Kitsiso - you are all world class trackers and instructors. EcoTraining is lucky to have you. Thank you everyone for one of the best months of my life."

Brennon KnottSouth Africa

Tagged Apprentice Field Guide, ecotraining, FGASA, fgasa accredited, Field Guide, field guide theory, online course