Program Overview: Yosemite Conservancy, in partnership with the National Association for Interpretation (NAI) and Yosemite Hospitality, offers a training course for anyone delivering interpretive programs or engaging with the public at interpretive sites. This nationally recognized 32-hour course is designed for new hires, professionals refreshing their skills, or those starting a second career, helping participants improve presentation techniques and deliver high-quality interpretive programs. The curriculum covers the foundations of interpretation, including history, definition, and principles; methods to make programs purposeful, enjoyable, relevant, and organized; and strategies for using tangible objects to convey intangible ideas and concepts.
Course Options:
With Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) certificate + 1-year NAI membership: $600 ($525 if already an NAI member)
The CIG certificate lasts a lifetime and includes a complimentary one-year NAI membership, added to your current membership if applicable. To earn the CIG certificate, participants must submit a program outline and deliver a 10-minute interpretive talk.
Know Before You Go:
- Program date: Monday, May 4, through Thursday, May 7; 8 am–5 pm, each day.
- Program location: Yosemite Valley
- What’s Included
- Instruction with National Association of Interpretation Certified Interpretive Trainers
- National Association of Interpretation Certificate of Interpretive Guiding
- Park entry pass (valid for program dates only)
- Shared tent camping (camping dates cannot be altered)
- No discount is available if you choose not to use the gate pass or campsite.
- Camping Information: Arrive Sunday, May 3, after 12 pm. Depart Saturday, May 9, by 11 am. Two campsites are shared between 12 participants, each with space for 6 tents and equipped with a picnic table, bear locker, and fire pit.
- Please email Ashley McComb at aam726@humboldt.edu to be added to the camping list immediately to reserve a camp spot, as reservations are first-come, first-served.
- Camping Location: Upper Pines Campground
- Important Notes: Due to the shared nature of the campsites, we cannot accommodate RVs, campers, or car camping. If you would like a private campsite, have an RV/camper, or plan to sleep in your car, you’ll need to make your own reservation. Please note that camping is reserved for program participants only.
- Lodging Upgrade: Upgrade to Yosemite Valley Lodge or Curry Village tent cabins for an additional fee. Lodging dates match the camping information dates. Lodging blocks expire 30 days prior to the program.
- To receive lodging information, email aam726@humboldt.edu.
What’s Not Included
- Gear or meals during your program
- Camping gear or meals in the shared campsites
- Transportation
Experience Level: All levels welcome!
