Can I receive academic credit for my course?
Yes. You must request academic credit at the time of registration—requests can’t be made retroactively.

• UNC–Chapel Hill: Undergraduate students can earn credit for two-week courses.

• Western Carolina University: Undergraduate and graduate students can earn credit for one- or two-week courses.

• You’ll need to upload an unofficial transcript during registration.

• One-week courses earn 2 credit hours; two-week courses earn 4 credit hours.

After registration, you’ll receive instructions for completing the credit process. On transcripts, courses appear as:

• UNC–CH: BIOL 459 Field Biology

• WCU: BIOL 493/593 Special Topics (includes the course’s specific title)

Does HBS offer financial assistance or scholarships?
Yes! Limited financial assistance is available through the Highlands Biological Foundation for students taking courses for credit. Awards are made on a first-come, first-served basis and do not cover the full cost of the course.
To apply, submit the following with your registration:

• Statement of Need (about 250 words describing your financial situation and goals)

• Letter of Recommendation from a faculty member or advisor

• Unofficial Transcript

Are there other scholarships available?
Yes—students may also apply for:

• John E. Fairey / Southern Appalachian Botanical Society Biological Field Station Scholarship (for botany-focused courses; deadline April 25)

• Highlands Plateau Audubon Society Scholarship (for Biology and Conservation of Birds; covers course, registration, and housing; deadline May 1)
  Applications for these awards use the same materials as the HBS financial assistance.

How do I pay for my course, and what is the refund policy if I need to cancel?
Starting January 2026, you will pay for your course and housing (if requested) at the time of registration. If you receive a scholarship or financial assistance, that amount will be refunded to you once your award is processed.

Refund Policy:

• Academic credit fees are non-refundable.

• Housing fees are fully refundable unless you cancel within 30 days of the course start date.

• Course tuition refunds:

  • Cancel 45+ days before start → Full refund minus $75 fee

  • Cancel 30–45 days before start → Full refund minus $150 fee

  • Cancel < 30 days before start → No refund

What should I know about traveling to Highlands?
Plan ahead—Highlands is a remote mountain town with limited transportation options. Visit our Getting Here page for driving directions and travel details.

• Cell service can be unreliable on mountain roads—download or print directions before you come.

• Highlands has a grocery store and restaurants, but prices are higher than surrounding areas; consider shopping before you arrive.

• Parking is available on campus near housing areas.

What is the weather like in Highlands during the summer?
Highlands sits at 4,100 feet, so even summer days are cool compared to most of the Southeast. Expect daytime highs in the 70s °F and cool, misty evenings in the 50s °F. Afternoon rain showers are common—pack layers, rain gear, and sturdy footwear.

What should I bring for my course?
You’ll receive a packing list before arrival, but essentials typically include:

• Field gear (boots, rain jacket, hat, insect repellent)

• Notebook and writing supplies

• Reusable water bottle and lunch container

• Bedding and towels (if staying on campus)

• Flashlight or headlamp for night work

• Personal items and medications

What are the housing options like?
Our on-site housing is dormitory-style—simple, comfortable, and designed for field station living.

• Expect to share a room with 2–3 students.

• Common areas are cleaned twice weekly; bedrooms are self-maintained.

• A full kitchen is available for meal prep (no meal plan provided).

• Alcohol is allowed only inside residences or dining spaces; underage drinking is prohibited.

• Pets are not permitted (service animals only).

Housing assignments are sent about two weeks before your course begins, along with a packing list and access codes. Check-in starts Sunday at 1 PM before your course; check-out is by noon Saturday after it ends.

What amenities are available?

• Free Wi-Fi in main buildings (limited in some residences)

• On-site laundry facilities

• Free parking near housing

• Access to the Highlands Botanical Garden and Nature Center

Can I arrive early or stay late?
Check-in and checkout times are fixed due to housing turnover, but you can contact us in advance if you need to discuss special arrangements.

How do I receive mail or packages while at HBS?
Use this address format:

Mail is checked Monday–Friday. We’ll notify you by email when something arrives. If mail comes after you’ve left, you’ll be responsible for return postage.

What’s a typical day like during a course?
Expect immersive, hands-on learning—days often begin early and include a mix of lectures, lab work, and field excursions. Classes frequently extend into the evening for night surveys or data collection, followed by independent study or group discussions.

Can I visit the Botanical Gardens or Nature Center during my stay?
Absolutely! Students are encouraged to explore the Highlands Botanical Gardens and visit the Nature Center. Both are just steps from campus and open daily.

Are restaurants or shops nearby?
Yes—downtown Highlands is a short walk or drive from campus and offers restaurants, cafés, and small shops. Keep in mind that hours can vary seasonally, especially in winter.

How do I request a transcript or certificate?
If you earned academic credit, transcripts are available through UNC–Chapel Hill or Western Carolina University depending on your registration. For non-credit participants, HBS can issue a certificate of completion upon request.

How can I stay involved with HBS after my course?
Stay connected! Follow us on social media, sign up for our newsletter, or join the Highlands Biological Foundation to support future research, courses, and conservation initiatives.

Who should I contact if I have additional questions?
We’re happy to help! Email us anytime at hbs@wcu.edu or call (828) 526-2602.