Spring Break 2025: Study Biology in Yellowstone National Park

Study Biology in Yellowstone National Park, a place of untouched wilderness known for its rich and diverse species and one of a kind landscape and ecosystem.  

Based at Gardiner, Montana, you’ll interact with scientists and students as you study wildlife biology. In addition, you’ll learn about radiotelemetry used to track ungulates, explore geothermal features and have the opportunity to observe wolves. 

Whether you’re interested in Biology, wildlife conservation or just want to experience the majesty of this landscape, this program in Yellowstone is your chance to serve as a citizen scientist and expand your knowledge on biodiversity.

Program Highlights

  • Join a Yellowstone Park wolf education specialist to learn about and observe wolves in the wild
  • Explore the area’s geothermal features including coloredpools and steam vents
  • Enjoy a soak at a local developed hot spring just outside park boundaries
  • Learn how to use radio telemetry to track the park’s top five ungulate species to collect information about herd demographics
  • Apply the skills and information you learned to develop your own independent research question

Travel Dates:

March 8, 2025 - March 16, 2025

Associated Courses:

Biology 112: General Biology 2

Faculty Leader:

Lauren Jackson
Contact via email

Money Matters

Estimated Cost of Program: $3,115

This cost is approximate and includes the $100 application fee due when you apply, $20 insurance fee, flights, and program costs.

Payment Deadlines are non-negotiable. Once you are accepted, you will receive instructions on how to submit these payments:

  • August 9: $800
  • August 23: $800 due 
    * Students accepted into the Yellowstone program after August 9th, will be required to pay $1,400 by August 23, 2024 as well as the following payment deadlines:
  • September 27: $600 due 
  • October 25: $500 due
  • November 22: $415 due

Please note: These payment deadlines are firm. No matter the day that you are accepted, you will owe all of the payment deadlines above at the assigned date. There are no exceptions. 

Other costs to consider that aren’t included in the program fee: 

  • A valid ID (drivers license, state ID, passport, etc.)
  • Personal expenses (ex: meals in airports, snacks, souvenirs, etc.)
  • Central Piedmont course registration associated with the program

How to Apply

  • Complete the Application

    Email the Center for Global Engagement to request an application. Make sure to take the time to thoughtfully complete the application. 

  • Submit a video recording of yourself answering a few questions

    As a part of the application form you are asked to submit a video recording of yourself answering a few questions. Follow the instructions listed on the form for the questions and the correct way to submit your video.

  • Pay Application Fee

    Once your application is received, you will be sent the form to pay the nonrefundable $100 application fee.
    Your application will not be considered until both the application form is complete and the application fee is paid.

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