Courses & Workshops
From intensive credit-bearing field courses to half-day nature workshops, HBS brings world-class instruction to one of the most biodiverse corners of North America — the Southern Appalachians at 4,118 ft.
Choose Your Path
Two Ways to Learn at HBS
Whether you're a college student looking to earn field science credit or a curious adult ready to explore the natural world, HBS has a program built for you.
Accredited Field Courses
Immersive 1–2 week summer courses for college students, led by expert field biologists from institutions across the country. Combine lectures, wet labs, and full-day fieldwork across the Southern Appalachian landscape. Many courses carry transferable academic credit.
View & Register →Nature Workshops
Non-credit workshops for lifelong learners of all backgrounds. From half-day native plant walks to week-long immersive programs in mycology, ornithology, and ecology — led by HBS staff and visiting experts in an engaging, accessible format.
View & Register →Costs & Registration
2026 Fee Schedule
Fees cover instruction, materials, and field transportation. Registration is processed through the WCU online store. Fees may be adjusted based on guidance from HBS' governing and advisory boards. Workshop fees are determined on a per-case basis by HBS administration.
1-Week Course
$500
2 Credit Hours
- $400 for Member Institutions
- +$55 UNC-CH registration fee
- +$65 WCU application fee
2-Week Course
$1,000
4 Credit Hours
- $800 for Member Institutions
- +$55 UNC-CH registration fee
- +$65 WCU application fee
On-Campus Housing
$300/week
Shared dormitory-style rooms
- Kitchen, Wi-Fi & laundry included
- Steps from labs, gardens & trails
- Optional but recommended
CEUs & Environmental Education Credits: Teachers can earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) based on hours completed for both courses and workshops — check with your administration for documentation requirements. Those enrolled in the NC Environmental Education Certification Program can earn EE credits for courses and workshops at no extra cost.
More Ways to Learn
Additional Programs
Beyond courses and workshops, HBS offers a range of educational programs for students, groups, and the broader community.
Zahner Conservation Lectures
Annual free public lecture series bringing leading conservation scientists and thinkers to Highlands each summer.
Learn more →Visiting College Classes
Bring your class to HBS for a day or multi-day visit. We offer lab space, housing, and support for academic groups.
Learn more →HBS Abroad
International field courses led by Dr. Jim Costa — immersive natural history expeditions to extraordinary destinations.
Learn more →Highlands Field Site (IE)
UNC-Chapel Hill's Institute for the Environment hosts a full semester program at HBS each fall. 17 credits of immersive fieldwork.
Learn more →School Outreach
K–12 outreach programs bringing field science to schools across the region, with optional overnight visits to campus.
Learn more →Group Tours & Custom Programs
Private customized educational experiences for your group — tailored to topic, age, and interest. Email hbs@wcu.edu to plan.
Contact us →Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
The summer accredited course schedule and workshop lineup are typically released each winter. We recommend signing up for our newsletter and following us on social media to be notified the moment registration opens — spots fill quickly, especially for popular workshops like mushroom identification.
It depends on the program. Lifelong learner workshops are designed to be accessible to curious adults with no prior background — just an interest in learning outdoors. Accredited field courses may have prerequisites listed in their individual course descriptions. If you're unsure, reach out to us at hbs@wcu.edu and we'll point you in the right direction.
Housing availability and inclusion varies by program. Many accredited field courses include or offer on-campus housing. Workshop participants staying on campus may need to arrange housing separately. Check individual course listings for details, or visit our housing page to see available options.
College credit is available through our accredited field courses, not our general nature workshops. Accredited courses are run in partnership with WCU and may carry transferable credit — always verify with your home institution. Workshops are non-credit programs designed for lifelong learners, but are no less rigorous or enriching!
Once registered, you'll receive a detailed preparation email with packing suggestions. In general: sturdy hiking footwear, layered clothing (mountain weather changes quickly at 4,118 ft), rain gear, a field notebook, and enthusiasm. Some courses may require specific materials — these are listed in your registration confirmation.
Absolutely — we welcome visiting college classes throughout the year. We offer lab space, housing (availability varies for larger groups), and logistical support. Visit our Visiting College Classes page or email hbs@wcu.edu to start planning your visit.
All registration is handled through the Western Carolina University online store. Use the buttons at the top of this page to reach the correct registration portal — one for accredited courses, one for workshops. Payment is processed securely through WCU's system. Contact hbs@wcu.edu if you have any registration issues.
Ready to Learn in the Field?
Browse our current course and workshop listings, or reach out to learn which program is right for you.