AMERICAN SOUTHWEST 

SPRING COURSE
The program begins with a spring course establishing foundational knowledge in outdoor leadership theory, risk management principles, wilderness ethics, and technical skills frameworks that define effective back country expedition leadership.

ENR 4965 / 5965 Expedition Leadership | 3 credits

Traditional | T 4:10-7 | 1st Block

ENR 4965 Field Experience: Utah Canyons | 1 credit

Optional, required if participating in field experience 

Students who have already completed ENR 4965 Expedition Leadership can apply to participate in the field component.

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FIELD PROGRAM
Explore the American Southwest with an intensive multi-day expedition, where you'll apply the leadership skills and technical knowledge you learned in the course in challenging back country environments. No prior experience necessary.

Field Experience 

2027 Dates March 12-20, 2027

2027 Locations TBD, coming soon

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.

APPLY NOW

PROGRAM FEE TBD $1,000 

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 accommodations, transportation during the program, entrance fees, instruction, excursions, most meals, and group gear.

What's Not Included some meals (including travel days), personal gear, travel insurance, 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. 

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GRANTS

Haub School Research & Creative Activities Grant

Additional research project or creative activity required. Application deadlines: March 15 for summer funding. 

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Contact the Office of Financial Aid for more information about other possible financial assistance options and application deadlines. 

• participate in classroom learning, including expedition planning, ecology, and leadership theory to prepare for the field experience

• attend pre-trip meetings to review gear requirements, and discuss the unique challenges of destination environments

• set up and manage remote campsites, practicing critical skills in resource management and Leave No Trace principles

• practice advanced navigation techniques using topographic maps, compass, and natural indicators 

• lead daily group exercises designed to challenge your decision-making abilities in high-stress, low-resource scenarios

This program involves active outdoor experiences requiring moderate physical fitness. 

Participants should be prepared for extended periods of sitting, extensive walking on uneven terrain, moderately strenuous hiking, and multi-day camping. 

You'll spend full days outdoors in different environment with variable weather conditions including potentially intense heat or cold, and a various elevations. Participants should be prepared to carry a pack (40+lbs).