Highlands Biological Station

Highlands Field Site

An immersive, place-based semester in the mountains of Western North Carolina

The Highlands Field Site (HFS) is a unique semester-away opportunity for undergraduate students who want to explore environmental science and cultural history through hands-on learning in one of the most biologically rich regions in the temperate world — the Southern Appalachian Mountains.

Hosted at the Highlands Biological Station (HBS), HFS blends rigorous academic coursework, independent research, and unforgettable field experiences — all while living and learning in the charming mountain town of Highlands, NC.

Why Choose HFS?

  • Location, Location, Location
    Live in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Highlands Biological Station, a UNC affiliate located at 4,000 ft elevation, offers access to pristine streams, lush forests, and a diversity of ecosystems — right outside your door.

  • Field-Based Courses
    Take hands-on, integrated courses (17 credit hours) including:

      • ENEC 204 – Southern Appalachian Environmental & Cultural History (1 hr)
        Explore the deep connections between people and the Southern Appalachian landscape — from Indigenous land use to modern conservation.

      • ENEC 256 – Human Impacts in the Southern Appalachians (4 hr)
        Examine the region’s incredible biodiversity and how it’s being shaped by climate change, pollution, invasive species, and other human influences.

      • ENEC 264 – Communicating Science in the Anthropocene (3 hr)
        Learn how to communicate complex science clearly and effectively using real-world examples from the Southern Appalachians.

      • ENEC 395 – Research in Environmental Science and Studies (3 hr)
        Gain hands-on experience through a mentored research internship aligned with your interests in science, policy, education, or conservation.

      • ENEC 479 – Remote Sensing and Landscape Analysis (3 hr)
        Use drones and satellite data to map and analyze landscapes, track environmental changes, and ground-truth field data.

      • ENEC 698 – Capstone: Analysis and Solution of Environmental Problems (3 hr)
        Work in a team to tackle a real-world environmental challenge, conducting applied research and presenting findings to a client.

  • Real-World Research
    Collaborate with field experts and local stakeholders on a semester-long research project that tackles an authentic conservation challenge in the region.

  • Community & Cohort
    Learn alongside a small cohort of motivated students. Build lasting friendships, expand your academic network, and connect with professionals in ecology, policy, and conservation.

  • Adventure Awaits
    Field trips to iconic natural areas such as the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests, and more.

What You’ll Do

  • Collect and analyze field data using professional research tools

  • Hike, camp, and explore biodiverse ecosystems

  • Present your research to peers, faculty, and community members

  • Build your skills in GIS, science communication, and environmental policy

  • Make a real impact in the region’s conservation efforts

Learn more about this program:

HFS Semester Courses

HFS page by UNC Chapel Hill’s Institute for the Environment

HBF’s 2021 Fall Newsletter ft. HFS project descriptions

Past HFS project reports

For additional information about the HFS program, please contact, Dr. Rada Petric, Highlands Field Site Director at rpetric@unc.edu

We are deeply grateful to the Highlands Biological Foundation for their continued support of the Highlands Field Site program. Their generous funding helps make this immersive, field-based learning experience possible for students each year.

If you’d like to learn more about the Foundation or show your support, click the button below.

Highlands Biological Foundation