E-Learning Course „Natura 2000 Manager“
The ‘Natura 2000 Manager’ e-learning course is a part-time further training programme in the field of ‘Natura 2000’ in German-speaking countries, aimed at professionals working in nature conservation. It is the first course in Germany to offer a comprehensive package of specialist content on Natura 2000, thereby helping to address the acute shortage of skilled staff in nature conservation.
The course has been offered annually since summer 2024.
A completed university degree (Bachelor’s/Master’s/Diploma) in a relevant subject, e.g. nature conservation, ecology, landscape planning or biology, is strongly recommended.
Key Information for the 206-2027 Course
Duration
The 2026–2027 program will take place from October 9, 2026, through June 30, 2027.
Course Structure and Learning Formats
Self-Study with Audio-Recorded Presentations
The course is primarily completed through self-paced study. Participants receive access to the Moodle learning platform, where they can access study materials at any time, including audio-recorded presentations covering most of the material. Click Here for the curriculum incl. learning formats.
In-Person Sessions
Five days of in-person sessions are scheduled throughout the course (see specific dates below).
Online Sessions
Several online sessions will take place via video conference, including two online lectures, one online discussion round, an online consultation hour, and exam preparation session.
Digital Exploration of FFH Habitat Types
You can explore 360-degree panoramas of 60 habitat types protected under the FFH Directive on this website. These can be viewed virtually, and even in 3D using VR glasses, to assist in the identification, classification, and differentiation of habitat types.
Final Exam and Certification
The training program concludes with a final online exam. Participants who pass the exam will receive an official certificate.
Dates for In-Person Sessions 2026-2027
Participants should note the following in-person dates for the 2026-2027 course:
- October 9 and 10, 2026 (Fri, Sat) Fri: Seminar “Argumentation in Nature Conservation” | Location: Erfurt Sat: Field trip “Exploring (Forest) Habitat Types” | Location: Mariental/Eisenach
- April 22, 23, and 24, 2027 (Thu, Fri, Sat)
Thu: Seminar “Media and Public Relations in Nature Conservation” | Location: Erfurt
Fri: Field trip “Understanding Conflicts Between Nature Conservation Goals and Habitat Types” | Location: Hütscheroda in the Hainich National Park
Sat: Field trip “Identifying and Delineating (Open) Habitat Types” | Location: Drei Gleichen near Erfurt
Workload
The total workload, including self-study, in-person sessions, online events, preparation, and exam review, is approximately 290 hours. This equates to about 10 hours per week, though the time required may vary depending on prior knowledge.
Participation Fee and Costs
The participation fee for the 2026-2027 course is 1.475 euros. The costs of lodging, travel to and from the course, and meals are not included in the price and must be covered by the participants themselves. No sales tax is charged for the course. The participation fee is due at the start of the course.
Educational Leave
Participants from Thuringia can apply for educational leave for this course. More info: bildungsfreistellung.de/.