PATAGONIA, CHILE
Conservation & Development
2027 Applications Open March 1
Conservation & Development
Patagonia, Chile
Learn to apply an integrative conservation framework across continents and explore commonalities and differences between complex socio-ecological issues in Patagonia and Wyoming. Patagonia's remote landscapes of temperate rainforests, glacial fjords, and marine ecosystems serve as a critical laboratory for understanding conservation challenges in an interconnected world.
Apply integrative conservation approaches to understand natural resource management and development issues in Chilean Patagonia. The field course travels from northern Patagonian fjords across ancient forest systems to remote island communities dependent on marine resources. Through hands-on engagement with local communities, management officials, farmers, conservationists, and indigenous groups, you will navigate the complex relationships between local resource management and global environmental pressures.
This experience reveals the interconnected nature of conservation and development systems, from sea kayaking through pristine fjords to hiking among thousand-year-old trees. Deepen your understanding of how remote ecosystems connect to global environmental processes and develop practical skills in navigating complex conservation challenges.
Instructors: Richard Vercoe
FALL COURSE
The program begins with a fall course establishing foundational knowledge in Patagonian systems, temperate rainforest ecology, conservation science, and international development frameworks that define Chilean Patagonia.
ENR 4965 / 5965 Conservation & Development in Chile | 3 credits
Online Asynchronous, 2nd Block
This spring course is open to all UW students, participation in the field experience is optional.
ENR 4965 / 5965 Field Experience: Patagonia | 1 credit
Online Asynchronous, 2nd Block
Required for field program participants. You will receive an Incomplete grade in this section at the end of fall, to be resolved after field program requirements have been completed.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
FIELD PROGRAM
Engage with leading conservation researchers and participate in focused discussions with local stakeholders as you travel through northern Patagonia. Sea kayak through remote fjords, and explore coastal, forest, and marine environments.
Field Experience
2027 Dates TBD Dec. - Jan. 2027
ELIGIBILITY
Open to all UW students.
Application preference is given to students in Haub School programs.
PRE-REQUISITES
None.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Application and possible admission interview required. Applications will be reviewed and processed in the order they are received.
PROGRAM FEE TBD $4500
The program fee is subject to change. Selected applicants will be able to review program fee before confirming participation. Financial assistance available through scholarships.
What's Included lodging, transportation during the program, entrance fees, instruction, excursions, and most meals.
What's Not Included round trip transportation to Chile, select meals (including travel days), UW Education Abroad fee, and UW tuition/fees for spring semester credits.
SCHOLARSHIPS
Haub School Field & Global Scholarship
Award amounts vary based on financial need. Application deadline will be determined by program.
Cheney Global Seminar Scholarship
Competitive application process. Deadlines vary, program participants will receive detailed application instructions.
See other funding opportunities.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
GRANTS
Haub School Research & Creative Activities Grant
Additional research project or creative activity required. Application deadlines: March 15 for summer funding.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Contact the Office of Financial Aid for more information about other possible financial assistance options and application deadlines.
raft the glacier-blue Andean waters of the Petrohue River
sea kayak the fjords of Northern Patagonia with penguins, sea lions, and local dolphin pods
hike through pristine coastal temperate rainforest to find ancient trees that are thousands of years old
stay with remote homesteaders and eat homemade meals harvested from the surrounding seas and mountains
visit farmers, historic sites, and national parks on the World Heritage island of Chiloe
soak in wild hot springs nestled at the edge of world where the mountains meet the sea
visit a fish farm floating in the middle of a fjord to learn about the dynamics of sustainable development and the conservation of natural resources in the context of local and global communities
This program involves active outdoor experiences in Patagonian summer conditions requiring good physical fitness and adaptability to different environments and weather conditions.
Participants should be prepared for variable temperatures, extensive walking, moderately strenuous hiking, and rustic accommodations including some camping.
You'll spend full days outdoors in variable weather conditions including cool temperatures, strong winds, and rapid weather changes. Participants should be prepared to carry a pack (20+ lbs).
INFO SESSION
Meet course instructors and learn more about the spring course and the field program:
Conservation & Development in Patagonia Info Session
TBD Fall 2026
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
QUESTIONS
Contact Field & Global Program Coordinator:
Melanie Matthews >>> melanie.matthews@uwyo.edu