forest seen from above with a snowy mountain in the background

Wilderness Studies

Wilderness and Civilization

Spend a semester learning about environmental sustainability and wildlands conservation. In this minor program, small groups of students delve into the study of wildland conservation and the human-nature relationship. Study combines the strengths of classroom and field learning, interactive classes, dedicated faculty and applied learning through internships. Courses are as diverse as environmental drawing and wilderness first aid. You’ll also explore Montana’s wild landscapes through multiple field trips, including a 10-day backpacking trip in the world-renowned Bob Marshall Wilderness.

40+

years of innovative education

10

days backpacking in the Bob Marshall Wilderness is a program highlight

30+

number of days students spend in the field

Programs

Students warm their feet and dry their boots around a campfire

Student Stories

Check out the student-led  for stories and reflections about their experiences in the program! 

Students in Wilderness & Civ in the '90s

A Proud History

Founded in 1975, the Wilderness and Civilization Program is one of the first of its kind in the nation and remains unique in the field of experiential education today. We’ve trained more than 1,000 students, and many alumni have gone on to leadership roles in conservation organizations, wilderness education, land management agencies and their communities.

Learn More about the Wilderness and Civ minor at UM

Courses