International Programs / Study Abroad

US National Park - Yellowstone

Field Studies: Yellowstone National Park

This program explores the natural wonders of Yellowstone National Park. The Public Policy course examines policies that led to the establishment of Yellowstone as the first national park and how current park policies evolved. The Environmental Sciences course investigates the park’s natural history and ecology and the interactions between its plants and diverse animal species. The two courses as a unit address the interactions between science and policy for issues such as the great fires of 1988 and the reintroduction of wolves to the park. Spring quarter class sessions discuss the policies affecting the park and the geologic and ecological forces that have shaped and are still shaping the park. During the travel portion of the program, the group meets with scientists, rangers, interest groups, government officials, and local nonprofit organizations to gather information on Yellowstone's science and public policy issues.

Courses   

The program is led by Dr. Kelly Tzoumis, Professor of Public Policy, and Dr. Thomas Murphy, Professor of Environmental Sciences and Chemistry. Participants earn credit for PSC395/PPS395/332 and for ENV 316/397 during spring quarter. The program fulfills Experiential Learning, Scientific Inquiry Lab, and/or Self, Society and the Modern World requirements.

Circumstances, such as an unexpected event abroad or a curriculum change at a host institution, may require DePaul University to make changes to the program. DePaul University reserves the right to cancel or alter programs and courses without notice.

Living Arrangements   

While in Yellowstone National Park, students stay in park lodging and cabins. Outside of the park, the group stays in modest, comfortable motels. Travel to Salt Lake City will be arranged on a group flight. Transportation to and around the park will be by bus.

Expenses   

In addition to DePaul tuition for 8 credit hours, costs include a specific program fee. For updated information on specific program expenses, click here:

For this program, the fee covers round-trip airfare, accommodations, study abroad health insurance, park entrances, excursions, and some breakfasts and lunches.

Students must plan their budgets to cover additional meals, supplies, textbooks, and personal expenses.

Application   

When completing this program's application, please note:

- Yellowstone applicants do not need to answer questions 2 and 4 on the Study Abroad application

- All other questions on the application should be answered in relation to their desire to participate in the Yellowstone Program. 

-Include two (2) letters of recommendation and a copy of the DePaul Unofficial Transcript.  This may be found on Campus Connect in the Students section under Records and  Registration.

Application Deadline: February 15