Basic Course in Ornithology
by Bombay Natural History Society
BNHS Certificate of Completion
Eleven-month hybrid ornithology program for students with Class 10 qualification, combining bird science with expert-led field sessions through BNHS's Centre for Environmental Conservation in Mumbai.
Mode
Hybrid
Fee
₹14,150
Participation format
Individual
Duration
Eleven months
Eligibility
Open to anyone with a Class 10 qualification and a keen interest in birds and environmental conservation. Participants must be able to attend field sessions in Mumbai and compulsory field camps across India.
- Grade level
- Grade 11 to 12
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Academic requirement
- Basic qualification of Class 10 from any board.
- Prerequisites
- Keen interest in birds, wildlife, and environmental conservation.
- Proficiency in computer operation and internet browsing.
- Willingness to dedicate a minimum of 2 hours daily for coursework.
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Certificate
BNHS Certificate of Completion
Participants receive a BNHS Certificate of Completion, a nationally respected credential in the natural sciences community, signifying a thorough grounding in ornithology.
Opens doors to
The BNHS Certificate of Completion provides a strong foundation and enhances prospects for higher education in ecology, wildlife biology, or environmental science.
Career pathways
Builds a strong foundation for careers in ecology, wildlife biology, or environmental science.
Recognition
National Recognition
Skills your child builds
Key dates
- Registration closed
- 30 Apr 2026
- Dates
- 1 Aug 2026
- Results
- 30 Jun 2027
BNHS Conservation Education Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra
How to apply
- 1Fill out the Google Form online. The CEC team will share bank details for fee transfer. Enrollment is limited per batch.
Rules and guidelines
- Adherence to the schedule for online classes, field visits, and field camps is mandatory.
- Submission of monthly project reports and field visit reports is compulsory.
- Participants must attend the inaugural session and two compulsory field camps.
- Respect for wildlife and natural habitats must be maintained during all field activities.
- Consumption of alcoholic beverages is strictly prohibited during field camps.
Technology requirements
- Computer or laptop with internet access
- Audio-video facilities for online sessions
- Digital camera for documentation
- Basic field equipment for birdwatching (e.g., binoculars, field guide)
Fees and financial support
Fee details
The course fee is INR 14,150 for non-members, which includes a limited period BNHS membership of one year, course study material, and BNHS expertise.
About this opportunity
The BNHS Basic Course in Ornithology is an eleven-month hybrid program for students in Classes 11 and 12, providing a thorough grounding in bird science — identification, ecology, behaviour, migration, and conservation of Indian avifauna. Designed and delivered by qualified ornithologists at the Bombay Natural History Society, this is among the most rigorous student-level ornithology programs available in India.
The curriculum covers bird taxonomy and identification, field survey methodology, habitat assessment, and conservation science. Students participate in field excursions led by expert faculty including Raju Kasambe, Ornithologist and Assistant Director of Education at BNHS, gaining hands-on experience identifying bird species and recording systematic observations.
Participants who complete the program receive a BNHS Certificate of Completion — a nationally respected credential in the natural sciences community. The extended eleven-month duration and fieldwork emphasis make this certification particularly meaningful for students considering higher education or careers in ecology, wildlife biology, or environmental science.
The program follows a hybrid format with classroom and field components through BNHS's Centre for Environmental Conservation (CEC) in Mumbai.
What your child will do
- Field excursions
- Classroom sessions
- Online assignments
- Project work
- Expert-led discussions
- Bird identification
- Systematic observation and data recording
Course details
Trainers
Qualified ornithologists from Bombay Natural History Society, including expert faculty like Raju Kasambe (Ornithologist and Assistant Director of Education at BNHS), Dr. Asad R. Rahmani, Dr. Ranjit Manakadan, Dr. S. Balchandran, and Mr. Nikhil Bhopale.
Academic details
Difficulty: Beginner
What's covered
Introduction to birds, their evolution, morphology, anatomy, physiology, food and feeding habits, history of Indian ornithology, bird conservation, classification, breeding biology, bird migration, threatened birds of India, birds of prey, field survey methodology, habitat assessment, and project work.
Frequently asked questions
How does this course enhance a student's understanding of ornithology?
The course provides a thorough grounding in bird science, covering identification, ecology, behavior, migration, and conservation of Indian avifauna through expert-led sessions and extensive fieldwork.
What is the expected time commitment for participants in this hybrid course?
Participants are expected to dedicate a minimum of 2 hours daily for coursework, along with regular participation in online sessions, field visits, and compulsory field camps.
What are the key skills developed through the Basic Course in Ornithology?
Students develop systematic bird identification, field survey methodology, habitat assessment, data recording, and conservation practices, essential for careers in ecology and wildlife biology.
What is the value of the BNHS Certificate of Completion for future academic or career paths?
The BNHS Certificate is a nationally respected credential in natural sciences, providing a strong foundation for higher education or careers in ecology, wildlife biology, and environmental science.
Are there any prerequisites beyond the Class 10 qualification for enrollment?
Beyond a Class 10 qualification, a keen interest in birds and environmental conservation, proficiency in computer operation, and a willingness to commit daily time to coursework are essential.
How does the hybrid format of the course benefit participants from different regions?
The hybrid format combines online learning with immersive field experiences, allowing participants from across India to deepen their understanding of the natural world regardless of geographic limitations.
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