Two ice climbers ascend a narrow snowy gorge, equipped with ropes and climbing gear.

AMGA is the leader in education, standards, and advocacy for professional guides and climbing instructors.

Find your program
Facilitate climbing experiences

Climbing Instructor Programs (CIP)

Climbing Instructor Programs are intended for individuals who facilitate climbing experiences, instruct climbing skills, and/or monitor climbing activities. Climbing instructors typically work with higher student-teacher ratios and focus on educating and teaching skills to clients. The International Mountaineering and Climbing Federation (UIAA) has endorsed the AMGA’s Single Pitch Instructor and Climbing Wall Instructor certificates. The UIAA sets world standards for Climbing Instructor certification

A woman climbs an indoor rock wall while people watch from below.
Training Mountain Guides

Mountain Guide Programs (MGP)

Mountain Guide Programs are intended for individuals with extensive recreational experience who aspire to guide clients in technical Rock, Alpine, and Ski Terrain. Emphasis is placed on effective risk management and high client reward. Guides who complete all three disciplines of the program become International Federation of Mountain Guides Association (IFMGA/UIAGM) guides.

Explore MGP Programs
A climber in red gear ascends a steep icy slope near a rocky cliff face.
Breaking barriers

Affinity Programs

Since 2018, the AMGA has sought to create welcoming and empowering environments by offering affinity based programs that promote greater access to training, mentorship, and professional development.

Explore Affinity Programs
Three people wearing climbing gear gather on a rock face with forested mountains in the background.
get amga endorsement

AMGA Business Accreditation

Accreditation provides a consistent standard for judging the reliability and professionalism of a business by ensuring it:

  • Conforms to industry standards
  • Guarantees rigorous and uniform guide training
  • Is compliant with state and federal law
  • Promotes ethical business practices
Explore Business Accreditation
Three climbers hike up a snowy mountain slope, using ropes for safety.
Begin your journey

Join the AMGA & Apply for Your First Course!

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