FAQ - BIOTONOMY ACADEMY
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I need any prior experience or knowledge in construction to take this course?
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No, prior experience is not necessary. This course is designed to be accessible to anyone interested in learning about building with NBS.
What expenses are students responsible for outside of the program?
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Students are responsible for their own travel expenses to and from the program site, as well as bringing their own sleeping pads and bags for overnight stays. Additionally, students are expected to bring a basic set of tools for the hands-on courses. A list of recommended tools will be provided to students prior to the start of the program. Any optional field trips or excursions outside of the regular curriculum are also the responsibility of the students.
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Is there a daily schedule available to see what a typical day at the academy will be like?
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Absolutely! You can find the schedule for the program in the curriculum, which can be downloaded here.
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Is there any opportunity for college credit with any of your programs?
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Please note that our course does not offer any college or university credits from our institution. However, we encourage you to contact your college or university to inquire about the possibility of receiving credits for completing our program. We would happily provide any necessary information to assist with this process.
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What do I get when I complete my Biotonomy Academy Certification?
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Upon completing the program, you will receive a certificate in Nature Based Development from Biotonomy. This certification may assist you in applying for future jobs with a focus on sustainability and Nature Based Solutions, not only at Biotonomy but in other organizations as well.
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What is the minimum age requirement for participating in our programs?
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The minimum age requirement to participate in our programs is typically 21 years old. However, we may consider applications from individuals over the age of 18 who have signed waivers from their legal guardians. Please note that exceptions are made on a case-by-case basis and are subject to review.
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Will I have WiFi while at the Academy?
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You will have access to WiFi in the student accommodations. If you are camping, you are allowed to use the Wifi in the Student housing.
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What is the deadline for paying the tuition balance, and what is the refund policy if I am unable to attend the program?
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Please note that tuition is expected to be paid in full one month before the start of your Academy session. We do not offer refunds, but we do offer the option to use your credit for up to three years toward any of our programs or products.
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Can I arrive a few days before?
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We kindly request that students arrive at least one day prior to the start of the Academy session, as classes begin early in the morning. For those who require an earlier arrival due to flight availability or other unusual circumstances, please let us know, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.
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Can I stay longer?
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For those who wish to continue building after the Academy session, there may be opportunities to extend your stay. Please note that this option is subject to availability, and additional fees for food and accommodation may apply. If you are interested in this option, please let us know in advance, and we will do our best to accommodate your request.
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Will someone pick me up at the Airport, bus, or train station?
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Yes, we will pick up students from the closest airports, train, or bus stations.
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Will I be able to build my own Autonomous building with NBS once I finish the Academy?
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The answer to this question largely depends on your prior experience in construction. If you have no previous experience in construction, you will likely need to hire a professional for many aspects of constructing your own. However, if you have a solid grasp of the various components that make up a building, including plumbing, electrical, carpentry, masonry, etc., you might be able to build your own. The Academy will teach you the basics of how autonomous buildings with NBS are designed and constructed so that when you start planning to build your own, you will have a solid understanding of what it requires in terms of materials, systems, labor, timeline, and budget.
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Does Biotonomy enroll international students?
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Yes, we enroll people from all over the world. ​
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What will I learn in this course?
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This course will cover both the theoretical and practical aspects of building autonomous buildings with NBS, including design principles, material selection, construction techniques, and maintenance. If you like to read more about each class, please download the curriculum here.
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