Education & Scholarships

Beekeeping Education

Keeping bees successfully is far more challenging than most people imagine, and taking a good introductory class from qualified, experienced instructors is an important first step for anyone interested in starting a hive or two. Not only is education key to success, it is also required by law for first-time beekeepers in the State of New Jersey. Beekeeping education is at the heart of the NJBA’s mission, not only through local and state meetings with informative speakers and events, but also through a program of excellent short beginner beekeeping courses given by many of the NJBA chapters. 

It is essential that anyone who wishes to keep bees understands the state regulations that govern doing so in New Jersey:

Courses in Beekeeping

NJBA branches offer short courses in basic beekeeping. Hours, locations, and costs vary from class to class. However, all of these beginner courses, including the Essex recorded class, fulfill the State of New Jersey requirement of basic education to legally keep bees in the Garden State.

Scholarships Available for New Jersey Students

Any New Jersey, full-time student interested in exploring beekeeping can apply for a scholarship to one of the in-person or live virtual NJBA beginner courses offered by the NJBA. (The recorded class is not eligible for a scholarship grant.) The youth must be a New Jersey resident, a full-time student and between the ages of 12 and 22 at the start of the class they wish to attend. (Please note: The beginners courses offered by some branches have a minimum age requirement higher than 12.) The scholarship covers the cost of tuition and any meals; travel to and from class is the responsibility of the student.

Applications must be submitted via the application below at least two weeks before the class start date. Earlier is better, as there are a limited number of scholarships available, and classes fill up quickly. 

*Discounted for NJBA members.