Frequently asked Questions

Find answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) around the introduction of our new learning platform. These FAQs are continually updated.

Is the website URL for Nature Masterclasses changing?

Yes, as part of the platform upgrade, the Nature Masterclasses website will be accessible via a new URL. While existing links will continue to redirect to the updated site, we recommend updating any saved links or references to reflect the new URL for optimal access and future compatibility.

Will the current platform stop being available as soon as the new one launches?

Yes, the new platform will fully replace the current one upon launch. Access to the old platform will then no longer be available.

If you have bookmarked or saved links to pages on masterclasses.nature.com, those will redirect and continue to work. However, links or bookmarks to specific course content on courses.masterclasses.nature.com cannot be redirected and will no longer function.

Will I still have access to all my certificates?

If you are a member of a subscribing organisation, any certificate you have earned by completing a course on the current platform will also be available to you on the new platform.

To ensure your certificates are successfully transferred, please make sure to register on the new platform using the same email address as your previous account. This allows us to match your learning records and migrate your certificates automatically, so that you can continue to access and download them at any time.

Will my learning progress be transferred to the new platform?

If you are a member of a subscribing organisation, all your fully completed courses and their corresponding certificates will be transferred to the new platform, so you’ll keep credit for everything you’ve finished.

It will not be possible to transfer over courses not fully completed. If modules within a course are completed, but the full course is not, it will not transfer to the new platform.

To make sure your certificates and history are linked correctly, please register on the new platform using the same email address you used for your previous account.

Will I need to create a new account?

As part of the introduction of our new learning platform, Nature Masterclasses will use Springer Nature's unified login system (SN Accounts), which makes access easier and more consistent across Springer Nature platforms. If you already have a Springer Nature account, you can use it to log in. If not, creating one is quick and free.

When you log in for the first time on the new platform, you’ll be asked to complete your Nature Masterclasses profile.

To ensure your course history and certificates transfer smoothly, we recommend using the same email address as your previous account. However, it is not required if you don't need to carry over your history of completed courses and certificates.

Will the login process change?

Yes, both the registration and login processes have been streamlined to make them more intuitive and user-friendly.

The new platform uses a unified login system across Springer Nature services, so the account you create for Nature Masterclasses can also be used on other Springer Nature platforms. This provides a single set of credentials for easier access and improved security.

What are the benefits of SN Accounts?

As part of Springer Nature, Nature Masterclasses will use a unified login system (SN Accounts). SN Accounts give you one login for multiple Springer Nature services, including Nature Masterclasses. With a single set of credentials, you’ll get:
• Easier access – no need to remember multiple usernames and passwords
• Consistent security – your account is managed centrally in line with Springer Nature’s security standards
• A seamless experience – everything works together across Springer Nature platforms

Will the new platform still have the same content available?

Yes, the new platform will include the same content you’re familiar with at launch. All existing e-learning courses will remain available and organized into modules and lessons, so your learning experience stays consistent.

Please note: Our first edition courses on scientific writing and publishing have already been refreshed and relaunched as second editions for an improved experience. The following first edition courses will be retired when the new platform launches:
- Writing a Research Paper
- Publishing a Research Paper
- Writing and Publishing a Review Paper

For insititution admins:

Will existing reports continue to be available?

Yes, your existing reports will still be available. Once we move to the new platform, these reports will no longer receive new data. At launch, reporting will be provided in an equivalent format based on the new platform’s data.

What happens if users try to access the old platform after the launch?

Once the new platform is live, users will no longer be able to log into the old learning platform. Instead, they will be directed to the new learning platform. Please note that all users will need to re-register on the new platform to continue accessing Nature Masterclasses content. We also recommend updating any saved links or references to point directly to the new learning platform to ensure continued access and alignment with future updates.

Will my institution’s access method remain the same?

Yes, your institution’s current access methods will still be supported on the new platform. You’ll just need your researchers to register and meet the usual access criteria linked to your institution’s subscription, such as being on the correct network for IP-based access or using an approved email address for domain-based access.

Please note that voucher code entitlements cannot be migrated; users will need to redeem a new voucher code to regain access.