Recreation, Conservation, & Wildlife in National Parks

TXST students at Yellowstone National Park

Department of Biology
Location: Billings, Montana; Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming; Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming; Jackson Hole, Wyoming; Driggs, Idaho; West Yellowstone, Montana
Course: BIO 4304/5304 - Wildlife and Recreation: Impact, Management, and Policy and BIO 4324/5324 - Conservation of Large Mamals
CRN: TBD
Program Director: Dr. Ivan Castro-Arellano, ic13@txstate.edu
Course Dates: Summer II, TBD
Travel: July 14 - 26, 2025
Program Fee: $1,800
Course Tuition: Undergraduate 6-hours $2,136.48; Graduate 6-hours $2,579.16
*Financial Aid eligible

Program Itinerary

This Study in America program offers students a unique opportunity to engage directly with the realities of wildlife conservation in stunning natural settings. By visiting National Parks and participating in hands-on activities—like hiking, exploring geological features, and working with conservation centers—students gain practical insights that go beyond classroom learning. Each day in the field allows for the collection of valuable data, which students will analyze and report on, reinforcing their understanding of course concepts. This immersive experience connects theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, enhancing both learning and appreciation for wildlife conservation.

Date	Travel From	Travel To	Lodging
Monday, July 14	Home	Billings, MT	Super 8 by Wyndham Billings
Tuesday, July 15 - Sunday, July 20	Billings, MT	Yellowstone National Park, WY	Campground at Yellowstone National Park
Monday, July 21 - Tuesday, July 22	Yellowstone National Park, WY	Grand Teton National Park, WY	Tent Cabins at Colter Bay Village
Wednesday, July 23	Grand Teton National Park, WY	Driggs, ID	Super 8 by Windham Driggs
Thursday, July 24	Driggs, ID	West Yellowstone National Park, MT	Westgate KOA at West Yellowstone
Friday, July 25	West Yellowstone National Park, MT	Billings, MT	Super 8 by Wyndham Billings
Saturday, July 26	Billings, MT	Home

*Itinerary is tentative and subject to change. Specific dates will be defined closer to the program date.

Application Process

Follow these steps to enroll.

STEP 1

Complete SIA student application. Deadline is January 24, 2025.

STEP 2

Applications reviewed by Program Directors & OXP.

STEP 3

Pay $50 program deposit. Deadline is February 21, 2025.

STEP 4

Program FAQ

TXST students at Rockefeller Jr Memorial Parkway

Expand FAQ List

General Information
- Who is eligible to participate in the program?
  
  All Biology majors are eligible to participate. However, priority will be given to upperclassmen ( i.e., Junior and Seniors) wildlife biology majors.
- Will I need to be in person at the San Marcos campus for the course?
  
  Yes, instruction before and after the program will be in person on the San Marcos campus.
Costs
- What is included in the program fee?
  The program fee includes:
  - Lodging throughout the duration of the program.
  - On site transportation.
  - 75% of meals.
  - All program entrance fees.
- What is NOT included in the program fee?
  The program fee does not include:
  - Airfare to/from Billings, MT.
  - 25% of meals.
  - Course tuition.
  *Per OXP policy, airfare is purchased by the student is not refundable by the university. Students are encouraged to purchase flexible airfare or travel insurance in case of the event they are unable to travel.
- What is the program deposit?
  
  Students are required to pay a $50 nonrefundable program deposit to secure their spot in the program. The deposit is applied to the overall program fee.
- Is Study in America Financial Aid eligible?
  
  Yes, SIA programs are financial aid eligible; however, eligibility can vary by student award. Students should always confirm with TXST One Stop whether their financial aid will cover the course tuition and program fee.
Program Preparation
- Will I need to provide my transportation?
  
  Students are responsible for purchasing airfare to/from Billings, MT. On site transportation will be provided for program activities.
- Is there a dress code for specific visits?
  
  No, however, certain attire suitable for field activities will be recommended. Details will be provided in orientation session.
- Will there be down time on the trip?
  
  Yes, students will have free time interspersed throughout the program so they enjoy the majestic places the group will be visiting.
Drop & Refund Policy
- Course Tuition Refund
  
  Refunds for a dropped extension course are given according to university policy for regular university courses on campus. Refer to the TXST One Stop for more information.
- SIA Program Fee Refund
  Students may receive a refund for the program fee if they drop/withdraw within the refund schedule. The program fee refund policy is separate from the refund deadlines associated with course tuition costs.
  The following policy applies to students that drop/withdraw from the course/program:
  - 100% of the program fee is refundable 45 days prior to the course start date.
  - 70% of the program fee is refundable 44 days prior to the course start date.
  - 50% of the program fee is refundable after the first start date of the course.
  Students that cannot complete the program and would like to appeal the refund policy, please contact extension@txstate.edu for assistance.
  Please note the course start date is not the first day of travel.