Wilderness and Civilization is an inspiring and demanding academic semester. It is the only program in Montana where students can earn a Wilderness Studies minor. Wilderness and Civilization combines the strengths of field learning with interactive classes, dedicated faculty, and applied experience.

How to Apply

Applications for 2023 are being reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. Once the program fills, usually by mid-April, we will create a wait list for 2023 or encourage students to consider attending in 2024. Contact andrea.stephens@mso.umt.edu for more information.

About Wilderness and Civ

• Wilderness and Civ is an experiential Semester program limited to 25 students - ensuring close interaction with faculty and peers.

• Students from any university in the country may apply; if you attend a school that participates in the National Student Exchange (NSE) program, you can automatically transfer the credits.

• Experience the ecology, land management, and natural & human history of some of the most beautiful landscapes in the lower 48. Examine human-wilderness relationships through interdisciplinary study in policy, ecology, arts and literature.

• Learn backcountry travel and expedition planning skills, including wilderness medicine and Leave No Trace training.

• Explore Montana's wildlands during 3-day and 10-day backpacking trips, a 3-day river trip, as well as many other 1-2 day field trips.

• Students from any major may apply. We typically only accept students who will be sophomores, juniors or seniors in the fall of their program year. We may also consider students who will be enrolling at UM for the first time with sophomore standing due to transfer or high school dual-enrollment credits.

• All coursework for the minor must be completed in its entirety during a single fall program. Unlike other minors, Wilderness & Civ cannot be completed by taking a course or two each semester.

• Program fee is only $450 in addition to normal University tuition.