The UC California Naturalist Program is designed to introduce Californians to the wonders of our unique ecology, to engage and instill in them a deep appreciation for natural communities, and to become stewards of their local resources.
Many other states have similar naturalist programs, but this is the first statewide program in California. Cuesta College Community Programs will again be offering this popular 4-unit college-level course this season. The class is composed of 8 Fridays, 9 am to 3 pm, totaling 40 hours of instruction plus driving time and lunch breaks. Each Friday starts on campus with a classroom presentation, followed by a field trip. Field trips are by private vehicle (carpool) and include one mile of walking. The last class includes short presentations of capstone projects. Assigned readings include the textbook, The California Naturalist Handbook, and other additional short reading assignments in preparation for field trips.
Please bring: Textbook: The California Naturalist Handbook, a field journal, and a cell phone with camera
Other Course Requirements:
Highlighted Field Trips:
Upon completion of the course, students receive a certification and pin confirming their role as a California Naturalist. Participants are eligible for four academic credits through UC Extension for an additional fee.
Subjects covered include California ecology, geology, plant communities, forest/woodland and range resources and management wildlife, communication and interpretation, citizen science, energy and global environmental issues.
This class is ideal for adults who want to strengthen their knowledge and understanding of California’s natural history in a structured 8-week program. It’s a great resume-builder for people seeking jobs in environmental fields. It offers four units of transferable UC credit for students. And it’s a fun and enjoyable way to see many unique areas in San Luis Obispo County.
Participants who record a minimum of 40 hours in the California Naturalist volunteer portal in a calendar year are eligible to receive an annual service pin. California Naturalists learn about opportunities to volunteer with federal, state, local and nonprofit organizations.
Learn more about the California Naturalist program.
Office:Building 4100 - Office 4103 SLO Campus
Mail to: PO Box 8106,San Luis Obispo, CA 93403
Email: CommunityPrograms@cuesta.edu
Phone:(805) 546-3132
Fax:(805) 546-3209
Office Hours:Monday - Thursday, 8:00am - 4:30pmClosed daily from 12-1pmClosed on Fridays and holidays
Refund Policy
DATES: 8 Fridays, March 17 - May 5, 2023
TIME: 9:00am - 3:00pm
FEE: $395
LOCATION: San Luis Obispo Campus Room 4110
INSTRUCTOR: Michele Roest - micheleroest.com
QUESTIONS: Contact instructor at michele@sciencecurric.org
Michele Roest
Interested in teaching a not-for-credit course through Community Programs? Propose a new class here.