Embark an only-in-Minnesota learning experience this spring in the heart of Itasca State Park.

Registrations begins March 7th, 2019 for U of M students and March 14th, 2019 for everyone else!

All courses listed below begin with a mandatory orientation at Itasca on Sunday, May 19th, 2019 at 5:00pm.

We have several scholarships available to help students cover the cost of these courses - click here to view more information and to apply.

May Term 3-week field courses:

• PMB 3802: Field Microbiology 
• PMB 3812: Field Mycology

May/Summer Term 5-week field courses:

• EEB 3811W: Animal Behavior with Prof. Brian Wisenden (4 credts, Mondays & Thursdays + 2 additional days TBD. May 19 - June 20, 2019)  This course introduces the principle concept of animal behavior through hypothesis-driven inquiry of animal systems in the field. Topics covered: proximate and ultimate causation of behavior, optimality, foraging, habitat selection, risk-sensitive behavior, antipredator behavior, courtship and territoriality, parental care and implications of animal behavior for resource management and conservation. Most class days begin with the introduction of a topic followed by a day-long field experiment involving the concept. Thus, students learn concepts in animal behavior and how to be an animal behaviorist. In the process, students acquire skills in data collection and management, and experimental design (controls, replication, conclusions based upon statistical inference, connecting class results to the primary literature). How to register
• EEB 4839: Field Mammalogy with Prof. Joseph Whittaker (4 credits, Tuesdays & Fridays + 2 additional days TBD. May 19 - June 21, 2019)  The primary goal of this course is to introduce you to the study of mammals, including aspects of their evolution, natural history, identification, and techniques used for scientific study. This course will enable you to integrate concepts of ecology, morphology, physiology, as well as other aspects of natural history using mammals as model organisms. This course will supplement your knowledge of taxonomy, phylogeny, and ecology while providing practical experience with current methodology. Writing assignments will expose you to current literature and aid you in the process of critical thinking. How to register