Become an ACS-OC Certified Naturalist

Love whales? This is a great chance to learn more about whales, dolphins, and other cetaceans!

Help represent ACS-OC

Certified Naturalists can represent ACS-OC on board whale-watching vessels, at schools and at other venues.

Next sessions begin January 2024

11 week hybrid course (alternating Zoom / in-person at Orange Coast College)
Thursday evenings @ 7 PM
Required national ACS membership fee: $35 (naturalist student price)
Course fee is waived for Orange Coast College students and discounted for whale watch company employees! Fee for current naturalists wishing to complete a refresher course is $50.

Course fee: $175 includes:
- ACS-OC Marine Mammal Naturalist Certification after successful completion of final exam.
- Official ACS-OC badge with name and naturalist title.
- Unlimited access to lecture recordings and course materials.
- Celebratory graduation whale watch trip with all your new ACS-OC friends! Free for you with option to bring friends and family!