Scouts BSA Merit Badges

Scouts learn about, identify, and observe a wide variety of birds while doing the requirements for the Bird Study merit badge. They also listen for birds’ songs and learn how to provide a healthy habitat for birds.

By completing the requirements for the Swimming merit badge, Scouts learn to safely enjoy activities in the water. They learn about water rescue methods and swimming strokes. Then they show that they have the skills to safely participate in aquatics activities.

Scouts learn about ecology, pollution, endangered species, pollination by bees, and other environmental topics while working on the Environmental Science merit badge. They also study how parts of the ecosystem interact through repeated observation.

Scouts explore what it means to be a member of the global community while working on the Citizenship in the World merit badge. They learn about international law and international organizations such as the United Nations, the World Health Organization, and the European Union. Scouts also find out about relationships between nations and the role of the US State Department and ambassadors.

Scouts learn to safely create items from clay while doing the requirements for the Pottery merit badge. They familiarize themselves with pottery terminology and methods, including using a wheel and a kiln. Then they create several items of their own. They also explore career opportunities related to pottery.

While doing the requirements for the Electricity merit badge, Scouts learn about the many uses of electricity, including electromagnets, batteries, home lighting, motors, and more. They find out how to safely use electricity and avoid hazards. Scouts get some hands on experience with some simple electric circuits and devices.

Scouts working on the Signs, Signals, and Codes merit badge will learn about various methods of communications, including distress signals, Morse code, sign language, braille, and semaphore. They also explore maps, text message symbols, and emojis.

Scouts working on the requirements for the Fish and Wildlife Management merit badge learn about the populations of fish, birds, mammals, and other wildlife. They study the habitats of wildlife and learn about careers in this area.

Scouts learn about pet ownership and training while working on the Dog Care merit badge. They explore the history of dogs and learn about their physiology and health. They also explore careers related to dogs.

While doing the requirements for the Search and Rescue merit badge, Scouts learn to safely participate in a SAR mission. They familiarize themselves with the terminology involved and the command structure. Scouts explore the differences between wilderness, urban, and water search and rescue missions.

Scouts learn how to handle a variety of emergency situations while working on the First Aid merit badge: shock, heart attack, cuts, broken bones, hypothermia, bee stings, heatstroke, convulsions, dehydration, pains, cramps, and more. They learn to “be prepared” for many types of illnesses and injuries.

While doing the requirements for the Backpacking merit badge, Scouts learn to plan and execute a safe trek in the back-country. Treating water, Leave No Trace, map and compass skills, GPS, stoves, and sanitary concerns are all covered by this badge. After preparation, Scouts demonstrate their skills by participating in several backpacking treks.

Scouts learn about the different components of games while working on the Game Design merit badge. They investigate thematic elements, game play elements, and game analysis. They analyze an existing game and design a new game. Finally, Scouts explore careers related to game design.

The requirements for the Robotics merit badge help Scouts understand the many uses of robots. They learn how to design and test robots to perform simple tasks. Scouts also find out about competitive robotics and explore career opportunities related to robotics.

While doing the requirements for the Leatherwork merit badge, Scouts learn to safely handle tools. They explore different leatherwork techniques by making their own project. They also compare different types of leather and synthetic materials.

Scouts learn how to help those in trouble in the water while working on the Lifesaving merit badge. They practice and demonstrate the skills for reaching, throwing , and go rescues. They also find out how to determine which rescue technique to use and how to keep themselves safe while giving assistance to another person.

Scouts working on the Fishing merit badge learn to safely catch, clean, and cook fish. They familiarize themselves with a variety of fishing equipment and the knots needed to use it. They also learn about different species of fish and types of baits.

Scouts learn about the skills they need to succeed at school while working on the Scholarship merit badge. They explore different types of study skills and the importance of extracurricular activities. Scouts also investigate how their current education can impact their future career.

Scouts learn to understand and appreciate our differences while working on the Disabilities Awareness merit badge. They explore the experiences of people with differing abilities and how providing accessibility can help improve fairness. They also investigate careers which support people with disabilities.

By doing the requirements for the Canoeing merit badge, Scouts prepare for a safe trip on the water in a canoe. They demonstrate that they have the skills to control the canoe. They learn how to maintain canoes, paddles, and PFDs. Then they demonstrate their knowledge by taking a trip on the water.

By doing the requirements for the Kayaking merit badge, Scouts learn to safely glide across the water. They familiarize themselves with kayaking equipment and techniques. Then they put their paddling knowledge to use by demonstrating their skills on the water.

While doing the requirements for the Exploration merit badge, Scouts go beyond their ordinary surroundings and way of thinking. They discover new places and ideas. They learn the importance and history of exploration. Scouts put their knowledge to use by becoming familiar with an organization which encourages field exploration or scientific exploration.

Scouts working on the Truck Transportation merit badge learn about all of the aspects of moving goods from one location to another. They find out about safety aspects such as truck maintenance and driver’s logs. They also investigate different types of trucks, insurance, and the logistics required to move products. Finally, they explore the different career opportunities in the field of truck transportation.

Working on the requirements for the Animal Science merit badge helps Scouts understand how to identify and care for various breeds of livestock. The requirements for this badge can be completed by studying beef cattle, dairy animals, horses, sheep, hogs, or avian breeds. Scouts also investigate career opportunities related to animal science.

Scouts learn about energy and conservation while working on the Energy merit badge. One practical aspect of the requirements is to conduct an energy audit at home and try to reduce energy over a two week period. Scouts also learn about renewable energy while working on this badge.

Working on the requirements for the Graphic Arts merit badge helps Scouts learn about producing printed communications. They learn about different media and design a piece for printing. They visit a location which produces graphic arts and find out about career opportunities.

While doing the requirements for the Sports merit badge, Scouts learn how playing sports can keep them physically fit. They find out about the importance of training and how to do it safely. Then they demonstrate what they have learned by playing competitive individual sports or team sports.

Scouts learn about the process of creating a new invention while working on the Inventing merit badge. They also find out about intellectual property rights. They put their knowledge to work by dreaming up something new and making a prototype.

Scouts learn how to enjoy excursions on their bicycles while working on the Cycling merit badge. There is an emphasis on safety and planning in the requirements. There are options for completing the requirements by road biking or by mountain biking. The requirements can be completed by Scouts with any level of experience in cycling.

While working on the Collections merit badge, Scouts learn to collect, categorize, and preserve items they appreciate. They also learn about career opportunities related to collecting.

While working on the Salesmanship merit badge, Scouts will learn about different types of sales and effective communications skills. They learn about presentations and put their skills into action by selling a product or service.

By doing the requirements for the Automotive Maintenance merit badge, Scouts learn to maintain automobiles. Scouts specifically learn about the tires, engine, cooling system, fuel system, ignition, electrical systems, drive train, brakes, and dashboard. They also learn to read the various gauges and meters. Scouts explore career opportunities related to maintaining cars.

While working on the Geocaching merit badge, Scouts learn to safely find and record geocaches. A geocache is a place you can find using a GPS (Global Positioning System) unit. Usually there is a place to log your find and sometimes leave or take a small trinket. It is a fun way to learn to navigate using GPS.

The requirements for the Safety merit badge help Scouts understand how they can prevent accidents and crime. Scouts inspect their home for hazards. They also learn how to be aware of things like fire exits and alert to dangerous situations when they are doing activities elsewhere. Scouts also investigate careers related to safety.

By working on the requirements for the Basketry merit badge, Scouts learn how to safely weave items from natural materials. They make a square basket, a round basket, and a camp stool seat.

Scouts who are doing the requirements for the Motorboating merit badge learn to safely operate a motorized water craft. They learn about the different types of motors and how to maintain them. Then they demonstrate their skills by operating a motor boat.

While working on the Pioneering merit badge, Scouts learn how to build structures with ropes and spars. They explore the uses of various knots and splices. They learn how to care for ropes. Finally they build a structure such as a bridge, tower, chair, or table.

Scouts get a taste of life on the stage while doing the requirements for the Theater merit badge. They read several plays and write one of their own. Scouts explore skills such as acting, directing, set design, costume design, hair and makeup design, lighting, sound and more. They also perform a pantomime and entertain their troops.

Scouts who are working on the Farm Mechanics merit badge learn to safely maintain and repair farm equipment. They tighten hydraulic fittings, check air filters, and clean equipment used for farm work. Scouts also explore career opportunities related to farm mechanics.

Working on the requirements for the Camping merit badge help Scouts learn how to plan for a safe campout. They consider weather hazards, what to pack, and how to select a camping site. Then they put their knowledge to use by participating in multiple camping trips.

While working on the American Labor merit badge, Scouts learn about the rights of workers and the importance of labor relations. They investigate topics such as hours of work, wages, and working conditions.

Scouts working on the Art merit badge learn to express themselves using media such as pen and ink, watercolors, pencils, pastels, oil paints, and more.

Scouts learn about the free enterprise system, banks, interest rates, profits, labor relations, and more while working on the American Business merit badge. They explore the challenges and rewards of building a business.

Scouts learn to identify trees while working on the Forestry merit badge. They find out why forests are important to our economy, climate, wildlife habitats, and endangered species. Scouts investigate how forests are managed and how trees are harvested. They also identify trees which are unhealthy or hazardous.

While working on the Textile merit badge, Scouts learn about the many uses of fabrics and fibers. They investigate how textiles are manufactured and the properties of different materials. They also explore careers related to the production of textiles.

While working on the requirements for the Wood Carving merit badge, Scouts discover how to express themselves by making items out of wood. They learn how to safely use and care for wood carving tools. Then they demonstrate their knowledge by creating a couple of wooden projects.

While working on the Sculpture merit badge, Scouts create 3D objects using media such as clay or wood. They visit a museum or studio and explore career opportunities related to sculpting.

Scouts who are working on the Radio merit badge discover the world of broadcast radio and hobby radio. They learn how radio waves make it possible for people around the world to communicate. Scouts learn about the different components in a radio. The en they put their knowledge to use The requirements for this badge can be fulfilled by exploring amateur radio, radio broadcasting, or shortwave radio.

Scouts learn about the properties and uses of composite materials while working on the Composite Materials Merit Badge. They also learn how to safely work with resins and other components. And they investigate careers related to composite materials.

By doing the requirements for the Horsemanship merit badge, Scouts learn to safely enjoy riding a horse. They find out about the care and anatomy of horses. They show that they can groom a horse and care for the saddle and bridle. Scouts demonstrate their knowledge by riding a horse and using a variety of skills.

By doing the requirements for the Archaeology merit badge, Scouts find out how sites and artifacts from the past help us develop a more accurate picture of how our ancestors lived. They learn about the laws and regulations which protect archaeological sites. They do some hands-on research and explore careers related to archaeology.

While working on the requirements for the Climbing merit badge, Scouts learn to safely reach new heights. They learn the verbal signals for climbing and how to care for rope and equipment. Then they demonstrate their skills by climbing and rappelling.

While working on the Mammal Study merit badge, Scouts learn about the physical characteristics of mammals and about their habitats. They learn how a mammal’s environment influences its population and carry out a project related to this.

Scouts BSA learn about books, libraries, and card catalogs while working on the Reading merit badge. They read some books. They also perform service related to reading, such as reading to children or people with disabilities.

Scouts mark and record land boundaries while doing the requirements for the Surveying merit badge. They learn how distance is measured with traditional equipment and with GPS. Scouts also explore career opportunities related to surveying.

Scouts working on the Metalwork merit badge learn how to safely work with a variety of types of metal. They explore different types of metalwork and the various career opportunities for people who enjoy using metal.

Scouts learn how paper products are manufactured and used while doing the requirements for the Pulp and Paper merit badge. They also find out more about recycling and forest management. They even make a piece of paper themselves. Scouts explore career opportunities related to paper making.

Scouts develop their critical thinking and strategy skills while doing the requirements for the Chess merit badge. They learn the history of chess, and chess notation. Scouts familiarize themselves with the tactics, board, pieces, and moves. Then they demonstrate their skills by playing some games of chess.

Scouts plant flowers and vegetables while working on the Gardening merit badge. They also learn how to garden safely. Seed germination experiments and the study of pollination help Scouts understand the science of gardening. They also learn about different methods such as composting, vermiposting, and hydroponics.

Scouts learn to present themselves and their ideas with confidence while doing the requirements for the Public Speaking merit badge. They give talks to introduce themselves and on topics of their choosing. They also learn how to give an impromptu talk and to lead a discussion.

The requirements for the Golf merit badge encourage Scouts to learn and play the game of golf. Scouts find out about proper grip and stance, which clubs to use, and how to chip and putt. Then they play at least 18 holes of golf. They also learn about golf etiquette and rules.

Scouts learn to navigate with a map and compass while working on the Orienteering merit badge. They investigate what the various symbols and markings on a map represent. And they get to participate in orienteering events.

While doing the requirements for the Rowing merit badge, Scouts learn to safely enjoy an excursion on the water in a rowboat. They demonstrate that they can control the rowboat. The requirements for this badge can be fulfilled with a fixed-seat rowboat or a sliding-seat rowboat.

Scouts who are doing the requirements for the Bugling merit badge will learn 10 different bugle calls. They will also learn to care for a bugle and serve as troop bugler for at least 3 months.

Scouts working on the Skating merit badge learn to safely move on wheels or blades. The requirements for this merit badge can be completed by doing ice skating, roller skating, or in-line skating.

Scouts working on the Shotgun Shooting merit badge requirements learn to safely handle firearms. They learn about how to care for shotguns and identify their parts. Then Scouts demonstrate their skills. The requirements for this merit badge can be completed using modern shotguns or muzzleloaders.

Scouts learn about the uses and hazards of radiation while working on the Nuclear Science merit badge. They explore how matter and forces interact and also learn about different careers in fields related to radiation safety and nuclear science.

Scouts learn about spacecraft and the history of their use while doing the requirements for the Space Exploration merit badge. They investigate the many aspects of venturing into space and consider how mankind might continue to explore the universe beyond our planet. They also find out about career opportunities related to space exploration.

Scouts working on the Citizenship in the Nation merit badge learn about the rights, duties, and obligations of United States citizens. They explore important places in our nation and learn to keep up with national events. They also investigate the importance of documents like the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. Scouts also find out about the branches of our federal government and how they compliment and balance each other.

By working on the requirements for the Scouting Heritage merit badge, Scouts explore the origins of Scouting and how it has evolved over the years. They explore a location which is important to the history of Scouting and learn about their local Scouting units.

While doing the requirements for the Medicine merit badge, Scouts learn about the history of health care. They explore the Hippocratic Oath, patient-provider relationships, primary care vs specialties, and the role of insurance. Scouts also investigate various careers in health care.

By doing the requirements for the Animation merit badge, Scouts learn how to create the illusion of movement through a series of still images. They learn the techniques which which make a good story and visual effect. Then they demonstrate their skill by creating their own animations. They also explore career opportunities related to animation.

While working on the Journalism merit badge, Scouts learn about freedom of the press and ethics issues for reporters. They investigate print and live journalism. They also conduct an interview and explore careers related to this field.

While working on the Landscape Architecture merit badge, Scouts learn to consider the importance of utility and beauty in planning outdoor spaces. They explore how plants should be chosen and how paths and other spaces should be arranged to meet the intended use of the area. They also investigate careers related to landscape architecture.

Scouts learn to sketch, tack, and weld metal while doing the requirements for the Welding merit badge. They become familiar with the safety procedures for welding and also become alert to possible hazards. Scouts also explore career opportunities related to the field of welding.

While working on the Coin Collecting merit badge, Scouts learn about how coins are made and what the identifying marks on coins mean. They also learn how to collect and store coins. They learn about special coins and series of coins, such as the State Quarters program and the America the Beautiful Quarters.

By working on the requirements for the Fly Fishing merit badge, Scouts come to appreciate and enjoy catching fish with a fly rod. They learn how to prepare for a safe fishing outing and to observe local regulations. Scouts become familiar with the knots needed for fly fishing. Then they put their knowledge to use by catching some fish.

Scouts safely explore the underwater world while doing the requirements for the Scuba merit badge. They learn about aquatic ecosystems and earn their Open Water Diver Certification. Scouts also investigate career opportunities related to the scuba industry.

Scouts working on the Architecture merit badge learn about how the design of buildings impacts their use and the environment. They also explore careers related to architecture.

While working on the Pets merit badge, Scouts learn about their pet and care for it. They also show the pet, help a friend start to raise a pet, or teach the pet some tricks or skills.

By doing the requirements for the Drafting merit badge, Scouts will learn how to make drawings which convey the visions of engineers and architects. They will do manual drawings, computer aided design (CAD), and lettering. Scouts also explore career opportunities related to drafting. The requirements for this badge can be fulfilled by doing architectural, mechanical, or electrical drawings.

While doing the requirements for the Whitewater merit badge, Scouts learn to safely travel on fast flowing water by canoe or by kayak. They learn how to read the flow of water and to understand the difficulty level. They also familiarize themselves with verbal commands. Then they demonstrate their skills.

Scouts who are working on the Railroading merit badge find out how trains are used to move freight and passengers. They learn about the history of railroading and consider the safety aspects of trains. The requirements for this badge can be fulfilled by model railroading or railfanning. Scouts can either use model railroads to investigate the topic further or they can learn more about scenic and historic railways.

While doing the requirements for the Electronics merit badge, Scouts learn to safely repair, change, or build electronic devices. They find out about controllers, audio circuits, and digital circuits. Scouts also explore career opportunities related to electronics.

Scouts learn to answer questions like “How do you sail against the wind?” while doing the requirements for the Small Boat Sailing merit badge. learn about sailing equipment and how to prepare for a safe adventure on the water. Then they demonstrate their skills by going sailing.