E-Learning Course „Natura 2000 Manager“
The "Natura 2000 manager" course is a professional part-time training program focused on Natura 2000. It’s the first course in Germany to offer a comprehensive curriculum on Natura 2000, addressing the critical shortage of skilled professionals in nature conservation.
During the project period, spanning from July 2021 to June 2024, a test phase was conducted (November 2022 – June 2023) and a first official course was launched (November 2023- Juni 2024), in each case with 46 participants from across Germany. Since July 2024 the course is offered without project funding. It is now financed by participation fees. The course starts annually.
Key Information for the 2024-2025 Course
Duration
The 2024-2025 course will take place from November 15th, 2024 – June 30th, 2025
Admission
While there are no formal admission requirements, a degree or relevant professional experience in nature conservation or related fields is strongly recommended due to the course's academic demands.
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
Six 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 2024-2025
Participants should note the following in-person dates for the 2024-2025 course:
- November 15-16, 2024 (Friday-Saturday):
Argumentation in natura conservation, seminar | 2 days | Location: Erfurt - February 14-15, 2025 (Friday-Saturday):
Press and public relations, Seminar | 1 day (Fri) | Location: Erfurt
Nature conservation field trip | 1 day (Sat) | Location: near Eisenach - April 24-25, 2025 (Thursday-Friday):
Nature conservation field trip | 2 days | Location: Thuringia
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 2024-2025 course is 1.375 euros. Unfortunately, there is no discount for students.
Please note that this does not include accommodation, travel, or meals.
Educational Leave
Participants from Thuringia can apply for educational leave for this course. More info: bildungsfreistellung.de/.