Experiential Learning Faculty Support Fund

The University of Montana Experiential Learning and Career Success (ELCS) office invites proposals from faculty for fall and spring semester experiential learning support funds. Experiential learning is an important component of a student’s education at UM. It is a high-impact practice that supports student success and career readiness. Experiential learning at UM includes internships, service learning, research, field experience, clinicals/practicum, independent study, project-based learning, and community engagement.

Spring 2024 Priority Deadline: February 11, 2024.

Download the application here.

*Applicants will receive notice of approvals/rejections no later than February 16, 2024.

The goals of this funding program are to:

  • promote outreach and engagement activities involving faculty/staff and students in partnership with local and regional constituents that UM’s Partner with Place Priority for Action.
  • address the needs of citizens in Montana and beyond while engaging students in high impact experiential learning;
  • connect course-based academic learning in applied settings;
  • encourage external and multidisciplinary partnerships; and,
  • leverage additional funds for experiential engagement activities when possible.

Experiential Learning Faculty Support Funding proposals should:

  • identify reciprocal relationship(s) with external partner(s);
  • describe student learning objective(s) tied to the experience;
  • explain how the experience benefits the public good; and,
  • show how the experience will support students’ career readiness and develop career competencies.

Award Information

Approximately $5,000 is available for this round of funding.  The maximum award request per faculty/staff member is $1,000.   Funding for any given proposal is one-time only, and awardees should not expect ongoing funding.  Proposers are encouraged to use support funds to leverage external funding and consider project sustainability. 

Who Can Apply

UM faculty and staff members who teach/facilitate student experiential learning may apply.

Eligible Costs

Funds may be used to support costs associated with experiential learning activities for UM students. Costs may include:

  • Materials and supplies
  • Communications and technology
  • Travel and event or facility costs
  • Faculty/staff stipend

All funds must be expended following UM and State of Montana policies.  Indirect costs (F&A) should not be calculated in the budget since this funding is internal to UM. Funds will be transferred to the appropriate UM department or college.

For more information, contact Jenah Mead, ELCS Experiential Learning Program  Manager: jenah.mead@mso.umt.edu or 243-5128.