Recreation, Conservation, & Wildlife in National Parks : International Affairs : Texas State University

Department of Biology
Location: Denali and Kenai Peninsula, AK
Course: BIO 4304/5304: Wildlife and Recreation: Impact, Management, and Policy & BIO 4324/5324: Conservation of Large Mammals
CRN: TBD
Program Director: Dr. Ivan Castro-Arellano, ic13@txstate.edu
Course Dates: Summer II, June 30 - July 31, 2026
Travel: July 13 - 24, 2026
Program Fee: $2,187
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.

Date	Travel from	Travel to
July 13th	Home	Anchorage, AK
June 14th - July 17th	Anchorage, AK	Riley Creek Campground Denali National Park, AK
July 17th - July 18th	RC Campground Denali National Park, AK	Houston, AK
July 18th - July 20th	Riverside RV and Camp Park	Seward, AK
July 20th - July 23rd	Seward, AK	Soldotna, AK
July 23rd - July 24th	Soldotna, AK	Anchorage, AK
July 24th	Anchorage, AK	Home

*Itinerary is tentative and subject to change.

Application Process

Follow these steps to enroll.

STEP 1

Complete SIA student application. Deadline is February 1, 2026.

STEP 2

Applications reviewed by Program Directors & SIA.

STEP 3

Pay $50 program deposit. Deadline is February 22, 2026.

STEP 4

Program FAQ

Expand FAQ List

General Information
- Who is eligible to participate in the program?
  
  All majors are eligible to participate; however, the program is geared towards Wildlife Biology and Aquatic Biology majors. Graduate students from multiple programs can also use this for their electives. Priority will be given to upperclassmen ( i.e., Junior and Seniors) Wildlife Biology majors.
- Will I need to be in person at the San Marcos campus for the course?
  
  Yes, instruction before the program travel will be in person on the San Marcos campus. After program travel students work remotely on their final reports.
Costs
- What is included in the program fee?
  The program fee includes:
  - Lodging throughout the duration of the program.
  - On site transportation.
  - 4 days of meals.
  - All program entrance fees.
- What is NOT included in the program fee?
  The program fee does not include:
  - Airfare.
  - 8 days of meals.
  - Course tuition.
  *Per SIA 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.
- What is the program deposit?
  
  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.
- Is Study in America Financial Aid eligible?
  
  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
- Will I need to provide my transportation?
  
  Students are responsible for purchasing airfare to/from Anchorage, AK. On site transportation will be provided for program activities.
- Is there a dress code for specific visits?
  
  Fieldwork clothing appropriate for summers in Alaska will be required. Students will be advised of best gear during orientation meetings.
- Will there be down time on the trip?
  
  Yes, there will be time at each site so students can enjoy these amazing environments after the gathering of data has been done.
Drop & Refund Policy
- Course Tuition Refund
  
  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.
- SIA Program Fee Refund
  
  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. See full drop/refund policy.
  Please note the course start date is not the first day of travel.