Posted: October 13, 2017

Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem embedded course for Spring 2018 Semester

  • HORT 497-2: 2.5 Credits
  • HORT 497-001: 0.5 Summer Credits, May 13-23, 2018 - Summer 2018 Semester Travel Component

For additional information or application contact:
Dr. Jim Sellmer, or Dr. Rick Bates,

Course Overview
When Yellowstone was established as the world's first national park in 1872, it sparked an idea that influenced the creation of the National Park Service and the more than 400 sites it protects today across the United States. Yellowstone National Park also forms the core of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE). At 34,375 square miles, it is one of the largest, nearly intact temperate zone ecosystems on earth. Quite simply, there is no place on earth like the GYE.
This course is an exploration of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and will include visits to both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Course topics and themes will focus on the many issues currently at play in the GYE and will address:

  • Managing landscapes of historical significance
  • Physical geography of the GYE
  • Cultural heritage
  • Wildlife management
  • Sustainable tourism
  • Invasive species management
  • Flora and fauna of the GYE

Approximate Expenses
These costs are estimates only and may vary

  • Summer tuition 0.5 credit
  • Airfare, book on your own, estimate $750
  • Program fee: $1,200

Maymester Tentative Itinerary and Experiences

  • Bozeman, MT entry point and exploration
  • Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park visits, hikes and tours
  • Yellowstone Heritage & Research Center, Yellowstone Forever site visit
  • Field experiences with National Park personnel (e.g. citizen science research)
  • Site visits and activities in gateway communities