Introduction to Beekeeping

Master Beekeeper Course

Level One
Introduction to Bees and Beekeeping

The Midwest Master Beekeeper Program is coming to NEIU on Saturday, February 24, 2018 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. 

Introduction to Bees and Beekeeping will focus on the principles of beekeeping. Those principles include the history of beekeeping, honeybee biology, plant and pollinator relationship, and essential equipment and requirements.


The Midwest Master Beekeeper certification program consists of six levels: Beginner
Beekeeper, Apprentice Beekeeper, Journeyman Beekeeper, Junior Master Beekeeper, Master Trainer, and Master Beekeeper. By the end of this first course, individuals will be able to help experienced beekeepers in the management of hives.

Anyone can take the first three level classes for more information on beekeeping without taking any examinations. However, to move to the fourth level, examinations for the prior classes must be completed. For Basic Beekeeper, individuals must have one year of experience rearing bees before taking an exam to move up to the next level. Experienced beekeepers can test up through the first two levels of the program if they have three or more years of experience.

The Introduction to Bees and Beekeepingvclass is for any individual interested in learning beekeeping. There is no minimum age for the program, but children age 12 and younger may find examination questions difficult.


The course costs $100 which includes a beekeeping book. This class will be taught by NEIU alumna, Dr. Moneen Jones. Dr. Jones received her MA and MS from NEIU in 2006. Dr. Jones has developed a Midwest Master Beekeeper curriculum, and the brochure for her other pollinator program, the Missouri Pollinator Conservancy Program has been nominated for a literary award.