Get the Skills to Be a Wildlife Tracker

Hands-On Training through the Alderleaf Wilderness Certification Program

Wildlife trackers work as researchers, field technicians, rangers, and biologists all over the world. Knowledgeable trained trackers gather accurate data on endangered, threatened, rare and common wildlife species - helping land managers improve conservation efforts.

If you love animals & working in the outdoors, and are ready to start on a new career path that is both personally and professionally rewarding, you owe it to yourself to consider wildlife tracker training.

Becoming a Knowledgeable Wildlife Tracker

The Alderleaf Wilderness Certification Program provides the hands-on training, practical experience and support to pursue a rewarding wildlife career.

Classes are led by dedicated instructors with years of experience working in the field. Students get the skills and qualifications employers are looking for, including:

• Wildlife Tracking Certifications
• Certificate in Wilderness Education & Ecology
• Naturalist Skills, Ethnobotany, & Outdoor Leadership Training
• Wilderness First Aid Certification
• Permaculture Design Certification
• And More!

Core Programs - Two Levels of Training:

Alderleaf Wilderness College offers a primary and advanced program:

The Alderleaf Wilderness Certification Program (AWCP)
This program is ideal for students interested in getting into the field in the shortest time possible. Graduates of this program are prepared for entry-level positions in the wildlife field utilizing their track & sign certification for field technician positions and basic wildlife consulting.

Can be completed in one school year (9.5 months).

The Advanced Wilderness Skills Program (AWSP)
The advanced program is designed for graduates of AWCP interested in pursuing additional training and certifications. Graduates of this program are prepared for more technical wildlife positions, putting to use the combination of track & sign and trailing certifications for advanced field technician positions and assisting with conservation projects. Completing this additional training can mean higher earning potential and increased job opportunities.

Can be completed in one additional school year (9.5 months).

Get Individualized Help – We're Here for You!

“It’s been too long. I’ve been out of school for years”

“I went to regular college, but it didn’t work out”

“I’ll look into it more when I have more time”

We’ve been there.

Most Alderleaf students are in their 20's and 30’s or older. Most have tried other programs or career paths. They choose Alderleaf, and succeed, because we’re different - hands-on & experiential learning with passionate teachers and excited classmates. Students who choose Alderleaf are looking for a partner in their success who can help them network and connect with opportunities.

We’re all for self reliance, however we never want you to feel like you’re left to fend for yourself. In addition to sharing classes with a community of like-minded peers, as an Alderleaf student you'll have access to continual advising, job leads, and alumni connections.

Is Wildlife Tracking Education Right for You?
Get More Information...

If you’re interested in learning more about becoming a wildlife tracker, and exploring whether this is the right career path for you, fill out the form on this page and receive more information.

Our admissions adviser will be happy to answer any questions you have and can help with everything from student housing to financial aid.

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Or Call Today to Get Started: 360-793-8709

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Call: (360) 793-8709
Text: (360) 722-9972
Hours: 9am-5pm, Mon-Fri, PST

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What Our Graduates Say

“The most valuable skills I gained at Alderleaf are the ability to track & trail wild animals, and be completely self-reliant & comfortable in the backcountry.” – Aaron Van Geem

Since graduating, Aaron Van Geem went on to work for the Northern Jaguar Project and other wildlife conservation projects as a field technician.

Learn about our Alumni

A Leading Wildlife Tracking & Wilderness Skills School

Alderleaf Wilderness College is a recognized leader in the field of wildlife tracking education, successfully training & certifying more wildlife trackers than any other program. Alderleaf has also provided training to the WA Department of Ecology, Forest Service biologists, and has consulted with the Discovery Channel.
Learn More 

Visit our Media Page