Greetings from the University of Montana’s Wilderness Institute!

Enrollment is now open for the flagship course in the Wilderness Management Graduate Certificate, American Wilderness Philosophy and Policy, beginning October 1, 2026! This course features weekly online discussions and opportunities to learn directly from leading wilderness scholars and practitioners. 

The Wilderness Management Graduate Certificate is a 15-credit graduate program that prepares students for leadership in the field of wilderness stewardship and governance. 

Through interdisciplinary coursework, students develop a deep understanding of all aspects of wilderness management, from the broad history and philosophy of wilderness preservation to the practical expertise of the laws, policies, and processes unique to wilderness management.

Online Courses, Flexible Schedules

The program is fully online. Our courses can be completed at your own pace. Many students are working professionals in conservation fields.  If work takes you into the field, you can return right where you left off.

Four courses designed by experts in the field

• American Wilderness Philosophy and Policy
• Wilderness Ecosystems
• Wilderness Recreation
• Wilderness Planning Theory and Practice. 

Please share this opportunity with colleagues, students, and others who may be interested in this course, or our flexible asynchronous course options in fulfillment of a Wilderness Management Graduate Certificate.