Summer - Overview

About the FLBS Summer Academic Program

The FLBS Summer Academic Program is back! Courses may look a little different due to reasonable Covid-19 precautions, but FLBS is gearing up for the same great experience we've always offered.

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.

FLBS courses: 

  • Involve field trips throughout the Flathead watershed, including Glacier National Park
  • Often include overnight camping
  • May be taken for undergraduate (300/400 level) or graduate (400 level) credit basis
  • 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 for up to 8 weeks earning from 3 to 12 credits. We recommend students take a full course load to get the best return on the dollar.

Gaining real field experience in a research and education environment makes you 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".

2021 Summer Session COVID-19 Questions & Answers

If Summer Session 2021 courses are canceled due to COVID-19, will my application fee be refunded?

Yes. The FLBS Summer Program application fee is normally nonrefundable. However, if Summer Session 2021 courses are canceled due to issues arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, applicants will receive a refund of their application fee.

Will there be any additional fees for attending field courses related to COVID-19?

Given the dynamic situation associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, please note the following contingencies:

  • A field course fee up to $52 per course may be added to your fee total at a later date to comply with University of Montana COVID-19 protocols for student participation in field activities/trips
  • Students signing up for double occupancy lodging may be required to change to single occupancy and pay single room rates
  • Additional safety items may be required to participate in courses. e.g. masks; hand sanitizer bottles for field trips; packable thermometer
Flier
FLBS Summer Session 1page flier
Brochure
FLBS Summer Session Full Brochure

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

Why FLBS Summer Courses?
Earn up to 12 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
Strong Covid-19 precautions
Apply by Jan. 15 for a ($100.00) discount!
Only $2,375.00 per 2 week course *
* Including tuition, meals, and single-occupancy cabin.
2021 Courses
--4 Week Courses--
Field Ecology
--2 Week Courses--
Alpine Ecology
Aquatic Microbial Ecology
Conservation Ecology
Forest-Fire Ecology
Lake Ecology
Stream Ecology

A Legacy of Ecological Education

The first FLBS field course was offered in 1899 (122 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.

© 2021 FLBS, UM
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