Summer - Overview

2020 SUMMER SESSION COVID-19 UPDATE

Tuesday, April 14, 2020

To 2020 enrolled students and applicants,

We recently received guidance from our leaders at University of Montana to cancel summer programs based in experiential learning, such as field courses. Anticipating this might happen does not make it any easier to announce our decision to cancel the 2020 Summer Session courses at University of Montana’s Flathead Lake Biological Station. We wanted to communicate this decision to enrolled students and those still planning to apply as early as possible so you might make alternative plans for the coming summer.

Students affected by course cancellations due to COVID-19 that want to attend in 2021 will be given first priority preference, and we are keeping your application and scholarship materials on file for 2021.

It’s often said to pick your battles to win the war. We chose the prudent path in light of the many unknowns about the COVID-19 disease. Your vitality and wonder for the natural world that gives us purpose each summer will truly be missed by all at the Station. We wish you well and very much hope we will see you next summer. Stay safe, stay healthy, and wash your hands!

Dr. James J. Elser
Director and Bierman Professor of Ecology
Flathead Lake Biological Station

About the FLBS Summer Academic Program

The FLBS summer academic program emphasizes experiential learning through direct field-based observation and hands-on use of advanced research instrumentation in our facilities on the east shore of Flathead Lake. Courses involve field trips throughout the Flathead watershed, including Glacier National Park, and most courses include overnight camping.

FLBS immersion-style courses may be taken for undergraduate (300/400 level courses) or graduate (400 level courses) credit basis, and FLBS courses substitute for required or elective courses in many campus degree plans. You may choose to attend just one 2 or 4 week course or enroll in a combination of courses for up to 8 weeks earning from 3 to 13 credits. We recommend students take a full course load to get the best return on the dollar.

By gaining real field experience in a research and education environment, you will be more competitive for graduate school or your next job. FLBS courses are also great for professionals looking to upgrade their training.

Experience sweeping vistas and traverse spectacular terrain while exploring pristine alpine wilderness and crystal-clear mountain lakes, streams, and rivers- all benefits of an academic adventure and scholarly fun in Northwest Montana's "Crown of the Continent".

FLBS Summer Session Full Brochure
Summer Flier
FLBS Summer Session Full Brochure
Full Brochure

Looking for Graduate Student opportunities? Visit our Graduate Studies page.

Why FLBS Summer Courses?
Earn up to 13 credits in only 8 weeks
3-5 credits per course (most courses)
Gain Real Field Experience
Learn under the Big Sky of NW Montana
Study in pristine, wilderness areas
Many scholarships available!
Financial aid options
Small class sizes, interactive faculty
Credits transfer to most universities
Same prices for residents or nonresidents
Apply by Jan. 13 for a ($100.00) discount!
Only $2,130.00 per 2 week course *
* Including tuition, meals, and double-occupancy cabin.
2020 Courses
--4 Week Courses--
Evolution Of Animal Behavior
Field Ecology
Seminars in Ecology
--2 Week Courses--
Alpine Ecology
Aquatic Microbial Ecology
Conservation Ecology
Forest-Fire Ecology
Lake Ecology
Landscape Ecology
Opt Ind Study/Animal Behavior
Remote Sensing
Sensor Design
Stream Ecology

A Legacy of Ecological Education

The first FLBS field course was offered in 1899 (121 years ago!), distinguishing FLBS as one of the oldest biological stations in the United States. Courses and faculty have changed over the years, but our commitment to high-quality education remains consistent with founder Dr. Morton J. Elrod’s vision of sharing knowledge through field experience.

On the Shores of Flathead Lake

The Station is located on the east shore of Flathead Lake, ~85 miles north of Missoula, MT. In this pristine setting, you will be one of about 40 students living in cabins and will meet a diverse group of people. FLBS is a year-round facility with research, education and support staff of about 35 people plus postdocs, grads and interns, and a steady flow of visiting investigators from across the U.S. and around the globe.

© 2020 FLBS, UM
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