Buzzing Into the Future of Beekeeping
Are you enthusiastic about learning and ready to dive into the world of bees? Discover the University of Montana’s Beekeeping Program, which offers the world’s most comprehensive suite of online programs for current and aspiring beekeepers at all levels.
Whether you’re an established commercial honey producer, an up-and-coming hive owner, or still just bee-curious, UM’s Beekeeping program offers robust academic coursework to take your beekeeping to the next level.
Follow Your Beeline
Start with our award-winning online Master Beekeeping Pathway, expand your professional skills with the Commercial Beekeeping Series, learn how to care for bees their way with Responsible Natural Beekeeping, or participate in one of our in-person field programs – you can choose the path that works for you.
Most of our programs are offered online, so you can learn from anywhere in the world and join a growing community dedicated to sustainable, cutting-edge beekeeping practices.
Why UM Beekeeping?
The core program is endorsed by numerous prestigious organizations including the Montana State Beekeepers Association, The American Honey Producers Association, Project Apis m., and the Western Apiculture Society of North America. Our faculty members are among the world's top bee researches with decades of practical and academic experience, and will guide you through every step of your beekeeping journey.
Master Beekeeping Pathway
Our core program consists of three fully online university-level courses. Whether you’re brand new to beekeeping or have kept hives for years, you will gain valuable insights into the science and art of caring for bees, while engaging with expert bee researchers and a cohort of fellow beekeepers from around the country and the world. Completion of this program will earn you the title of Master Beekeeper!
Upcoming Courses
|
Course |
Next Dates |
Registration |
|---|---|---|
| Apprentice Level | March 30 - May 8, 2026 | Closed |
| Journeyman Level | March 9 - May 8, 2026 | Closed |
| Master Level | June 15 - August 14, 2026 | Register Now |
Commercial Beekeeping Series
These online elective courses will give you the necessary knowledge and skills to meet the challenges of the rapidly-evolving landscape of commercial-grade honey, wax, and pollen production, crop pollination, and specialized queen rearing. Whether you aspire to rise the ranks of a large-scale beekeeping operation or level up your own independent business, these courses will super-charge your commercial production.
Upcoming Courses
|
Course |
Next Dates |
Registration |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Queen Rearing & Package Production | January 26 - March 6 | Closed |
| Commercial Honey Production | May 4 - June 12 | Register Now |
| Commercial Pollination | November 2 - December 11 | Coming Soon |
Additional Offerings
Take specialty electives to gain unique perspectives and skills, or join us for an in-person field course in Missoula!
Upcoming Courses
|
Course |
Next Dates |
Registration |
|---|---|---|
| Responsible Natural Beekeeping | May 18 - June 19 | Register Now |
Scholarship
The Hives for Heroes Bee U Scholarship will reimburse military members, veterans, and first responders who successfully complete select courses in our Master Beekeeping Pathway.