Study Wildlands in Montana

Each fall, a small group of students from around the country gather at UM’s Wilderness Institute to study wildlands and the human/nature relationship. Wilderness and Civilization combines the strengths of field experience with dedicated faculty and small-group living and learning.  Coursework is interdisciplinary: we draw on art and ecology, literature and policy. We also emphasize practical skills in wilderness risk management and wilderness travel. Wilderness and Civilization offers students the opportunity to explore contemporary conservation debates, draw connections between disciplines, and practice cooperation as a force for positive change.  Students successfully completing the program receive a minor in Wilderness Studies that complements any major.  

Completion of the Wilderness and Civilization program counts towards three Honors electives.  Three of the six program courses carry Honors designation: Wilderness and Civilization (NRSM 373 – 5 cr.), Conservation Ecology (NRSM 271N – 3 cr.) and Ecology of Literature (LIT 280L – 3 cr.).   

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. For application guidelines, visit our application site or contact program director Andrea Stephens at andrea.stephens@mso.umt.edu