Recreation, Conservation, & Wildlife in National Parks

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.

DateTravel FromTravel ToLodging
Monday, July 14HomeBillings, MTSuper 8 by Wyndham Billings
Tuesday, July 15 - Sunday, July 20Billings, MTYellowstone National Park, WYCampground at Yellowstone National Park
Monday, July 21 - Tuesday, July 22Yellowstone National Park, WYGrand Teton National Park, WYTent Cabins at Colter Bay Village
Wednesday, July 23Grand Teton National Park, WYDriggs, IDSuper 8 by Windham Driggs
Thursday, July 24Driggs, IDWest Yellowstone National Park, MTWestgate KOA at West Yellowstone
Friday, July 25West Yellowstone National Park, MTBillings, MTSuper 8 by Wyndham Billings
Saturday, July 26Billings, MTHome

*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 2

Applications reviewed by Program Directors & OXP.

STEP 3

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

STEP 4

Register for SIA associated course.

Program FAQ

TXST students at elk rescue
Moose seen on TXST SIA trip
TXST students at Rockefeller Jr Memorial Parkway
  • General Information

  • Costs

    • The program fee includes:

      • Lodging throughout the duration of the program.
      • On site transportation.
      • 75% of meals.
      • All program entrance fees.
    • 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. 

    • 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. 

    • 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

  • Drop & Refund Policy

    • 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.

    • 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.