Registration now open for Wildlife Science Summer Programs at Lees-McRae College

BANNER ELK, N.C.— Current high school students with an interest in the natural environment, conservation, and ecology are invited to apply for the Lees-McRae College Wildlife Science Summer Programs. These weeklong sessions introduce students to the fields of wildlife biology, wildlife rehabilitation, and veterinary medicine through hands-on experiences around Banner Elk, North Carolina.

The bulk of the programs take place on the Lees-McRae campus, where students will conduct experiments, participate in labs, and conduct research under the guidance of Lees-McRae faculty. Past sessions have included activities like mammal trapping, salamander hunting, invasive species removal, and electrofishing in the Elk Valley Preserve, bird and plant identification hikes on campus, and education presentations with the ambassador animals at the May Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. Each session also includes field trips to locations like Grandfather Mountain, Linville Caverns, Western North Carolina Nature Center and the Greensboro Science Center, where students can learn more about pursuing a career working with wildlife.   

“Interested in nature and everything living in it? This is a tale about our evolving planet and how we can support its growth and resilience! Come take a journey with us!” Assistant Dean of Natural and Health Sciences Shinjini Goswami said.  

The first session will be held June 15–22 and focuses on exploring the field of wildlife biology, including plant and animal ecology, research, and conservation biology.  The second session takes place immediately after, June 22–28, and is designed for students actively interested in studying wildlife biology or pre-veterinary medicine at the collegiate level. Session two involves more clinical work and concludes with each student giving an education presentation with an ambassador animal.    

Students for both sessions must have completed their freshman year of high school and at least one high school-level biology course. Students interested in session two should have attended the first session or have previous experience in a related setting. All participants must be between 15 and 17 years old. With questions regarding eligibility, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  

The program cost is $2,000 for one week and $3,400 for both weeks. This cost covers lodging and meals, insurance, classes and activities, materials and supplies, field trips, transportation during camp, and a camp shirt.   

Learn more about the Wildlife Science Summer Programs at Lees-McRae College >>

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