Scouts BSA Merit Badges

While working on the requirements for the Archery merit badge, Scouts learn range safety rules. They also familiarize themselves with archery equipment and discover how to maintain it. Then they demonstrate their archery skills using a recurve bow, a longbow, or a compound bow.

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.

While working on the Aviation merit badge, Scouts learn about aircraft and the forces which act on them. They learn about maintaining aircraft and planning for a flight. They build and fly a model airplane and explore careers related to aviation.

While working on the Reptile and Amphibian Study merit badge, Scouts learn about the identifying characteristics of alligators, crocodiles, toads, frogs, salamanders, lizards, snakes and more. They also maintain their own reptiles or amphibians or observe them at a zoo. Scouts investigate which species are dangerous and which make good pets.

Scouts learn to safely shoot firearms while working on the Rifle Shooting merit badge. Then they demonstrate their skill. The requirements for this badge may be completed using modern rifles, BB or pellet air rifles, or muzzleloaders.

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.

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 about oral, written, visual, and digital methods of sharing information while working on the Communication merit badge. They share stories and information, participate in an interview, attend a public meeting, and plan a Court of Honor or campfire program. They also explore careers in the field of communication.

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.

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 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 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.

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.

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 who are doing the requirements for the Astronomy merit badge learn about telescopes, binoculars, light pollution, planets, stars, and constellations. They visit a planetarium, spend some time observing the sky, or host a star party. They also explore careers related to astronomy.

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.

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.

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.

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.

While doing the requirements for the Fire Safety merit badge, Scouts learn about the best ways to prevent fires in their homes and while outdoors. Scouts will also find out what to do if there is an uncontrolled fire. They visit a fire station and explore fire-safety related careers.

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.

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.

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 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.

Scouts find out about life in the sea by doing the requirements for the Oceanography merit badge. Topics include the properties of seawater, waves, underwater topography, and the importance of the oceans. Scouts will also do a hands-on activity and will learn how marine scientists study the oceans.

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.

While working on the Home Repairs merit badge, Scouts learn to identify and fix various issues in their homes. They learn why maintaining a home is important and how making repairs in a timely manner can eliminate problems in their homes and improve safety and save money.

Scouts capture live action memories while doing the requirements for the Moviemaking merit badge. They learn how to create a visual story and use motion picture equipment such as a camcorder or a smartphone to record it. Scouts create their own short film and explore careers in moviemaking.

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.

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 about the identifying characteristics of insects while working on the Insect Study merit badge. They find out which insects are hazardous and how to avoid and respond to them, with first aid if necessary. Scouts observe a number of insects. They also explore career opportunities in fields related to insects.

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.

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 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.

While working on the requirements for the Law merit badge, Scouts learn about the history of law and the difference between civil law and criminal law. They investigate the different areas of law and find out about careers which are related to legal matters.

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 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.

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 learn to manage their time, treasure, and talents while working on the Personal Management merit badge. They investigate different aspects of saving money and investing. They learn time management techniques. And they consider how their talents might lead to a future career and explore those possibilities.

Scouts working on the Indian Lore merit badge learn about the rich cultural history of Native Americans. They learn about the history of the interactions between native people and European settlers and later the US government. They also explore how Native Americans continue to express their cultural history today.

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 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 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.

While working on the requirements for the Hiking merit badge, Scouts learn how to plan for a safe hike, considering their route, hazards, equipment needed, the weather conditions, and more. Then they put their knowledge to work by going out on several hikes. Afterwards they reflect on their experience.

Scouts learn to propagate and grow plants while working on the Plant Science merit badge. They investigate the importance and uses of crops, trees, and flowers. Scouts have many options to choose from for the types of plants they will study in depth while doing this badge.

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.

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.

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 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.

Scouts learn about substances and how they interact while working on the Chemistry merit badge. They learn about lab safety and investigate by doing experiments. Scouts also learn about careers in fields related to chemistry.

The requirements for the Nature merit badge help scouts learn about plants and wildlife and the connection of all living things. They identify different types of wildlife and consider their importance in ecosystems.

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.

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.

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.

Scouts learn about the history and uses of fingerprinting while doing the requirement for the Fingerprinting merit badge. They learn to take a set of prints and explore identification methods and patterns.

Scouts who are doing the requirements for the Woodwork merit badge learn how to safely handle, store, and maintain tools. They also get some hands on experience by doing woodworking projects. Scouts investigate careers in cabinet making and carpentry.

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 learn about different aspects of the mining industry while working on the Mining in Society merit badge. They consider how to mine minerals and how to transport materials. They also explore careers related to mining.

While working on the Plumbing merit badge, Scouts learn many aspects of plumbing and pipe fitting. They find out how to use tools. They explore the many uses of plumbing including faucets and drains. Then they use their knowledge by doing some maintenance on a faucet or trap.

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 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 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.

Scouts working on the Painting merit badge explore different painting techniques such as applying coatings, patching materials, caulking, priming, and applying a topcoat. They learn how to use a ladder and consider other safety concerns. Scouts will paint two different surfaces while working on this merit badge. They also investigate careers related to painting.

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 doing the requirements for the Geology merit badge, Scouts learn about rocks and resources. They can focus on sedimentary processes, energy resources, mineral resources, or earth history while working on this merit badge. Scouts also research career opportunities related to geology.

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.

Scouts learn how to stay physically fit while working on the Athletics merit badge. They explore the importance of nutrition, warming up, and cooling down. They test their skills in selected areas such as sprinting, jumping, swimming, push ups, pull ups, basketball shooting, football kicking, soccer kicking, or weight training.

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 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 have the opportunity to learn about different types of models such as architectural, structural, process, mechanical, and industrial models while working on the Model Design and Building merit badge. They make an original model and explore career opportunities related to model design.

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.

While working on the Water Sports merit badge, Scouts learn to safely enjoy sports such as water skiing or wakeboarding. They learn about the equipment needed to enjoy these sports and demonstrate their skills.

Working on the requirements for the Crime Prevention merit badge helps Scouts stay safe in their homes and in the community. Scouts learn to identify and be alert to situations which may lead to crime. They learn about the dangers of substance abuse. Scouts also explore careers opportunities in the field of crime prevention.

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.

Scouts working on the Genealogy merit badge learn about their family heritage. They explore the many ways to research information about their ancestors and where they came from. Scouts will appreciate their family history and learn how this can lead them to delve deeper into their cultural roots.

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.

Doing the requirements for the Weather merit badge helps Scouts learn about meteorology. They learn about weather hazards, high and low pressure systems, the science of weather, and the water cycle. They explore climates and the way humans alter their environment. They make a weather instrument and find out about careers related to weather.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 about food safety, nutrition, and cooking techniques while working on the Cooking merit badge. They also have to plan , prepare, and cook meals at camp, at home, and on the trail. The Cooking merit badge is required for the rank of Eagle.