Wilderness and Civilization
Special Program
Wilderness and Civilization
University of Montana
Program Information
Missoula, MT
All Disciplines
18-credit
Either Home or Away Payment Plan
W&C is an inspiring experiential program exploring interactions between humans and Montana's wild places. W&C combines the strengths of classroom and field learning, offering interactive classes, dedicated faculty, and over 30 days in the field. Coursework is interdisciplinary, drawing on the perspectives of art, ecology, literature, policy, economics, and wilderness field skills. W&C offers students the opportunity to explore contemporary conservation debates, make connections between disciplines, and learn to cooperate to make positive change. Priority applications due: February 15. For more information, visit UM Wilderness Institute.
Successful completion of the program also requires a large time commitment. A standard 18-credit course load equates to 45 hours per week of combined class/field trip time and homework. The time expectation for Wilderness and Civ is even higher, given that students take 7 overnight trips during the 15-week semester, ranging from 2-10 days long.
The Wilderness and Civilization Program accepts applications on a rolling basis until the program fills, usually by mid-April. This means each application will be reviewed on its own merits as it arrives. Students are encouraged to apply early and may apply a full year or two in advance to secure a space and to facilitate academic planning. We accept applications from NSE students, regardless of your major.
Courses:
NRSM 373: Wilderness and Civilization (Honors), 2 credits
NRSM 271N: Conservation Ecology (Honors), 3 credits
LIT 280L: Ecology of Literature (Honors), 3 credits
ARTZ 314A: Environmental Drawing, 3 credits
NRSM 273: Wilderness & Civilization Field Studies, 4 credits
NRSM 345: Watershed Dynamics and Management Issues, 3 credits
Requirements: W&C admits sophomores, juniors, and seniors with an average 3.0+ GPA (limited to 25 participants). Students admitted to the program must maintain a 3.0 GPA to retain program acceptance. Out-of-state students should apply directly to both W&C and National Student Exchange (NSE). The program begins with a 10-day Bob Marshall Wilderness backpacking trip and a 4-day river float trip.
Costs: $850 program fee
Access Types:
Open: open to all eligible applicants who meet stated deadlines
$850
Contact Information
Program Terms
Fall Semester
Program Dates: August 24, 2026 - December 11, 2026
Application Deadline: April 10, 2026