Program Length: Eight weeks…Mid-June through Mid-August in the summer

Sponsor: University of Maine, University of Colorado Boulder, University of Alaska Southeast

Location: Various Universities Across Canada

Admissions Requirements:

• Academic Prerequisites

  There are no specific academic prerequisites to enroll in JIRP. The curriculum assumes no prior knowledge and begins with introductory lectures covering a wide range of Earth science topics related to glaciology, climate science, geochemistry, geomatics, ecology, local petrology and tectonic history. The curriculum is aimed at an undergraduate student body. We accept a few advanced high school students who demonstrate they are ready to progress academically. We also welcome early-stage graduate students who wish to build up their background in glacier science and related fields.

  Athletic Prerequisites

  During Safety Training we teach all the technical backpacking, skiing, and mountaineering skills student need to complete the traverse. No specific experience is required. The physical and athletic demands of the Icefield traverse, however, are serious. We travel exclusively by foot and by ski and we regularly carry backpacks up to 40% of body weight. A moderate level of physical fitness is required before beginning the program. Challenging hikes begin the second day of the program, so participants must arrive ready to hike 8-10 miles/12-16 km with 4500 ft./1500 m of elevation gain and pack weighing 35% of their body weight.

Admissions Deadline:  December

Highlight: The Juneau Icefield Research Project (JIRP), is a long-standing, academically accredited expeditionary program in southeastern Alaska. Students gain hands-on training in Earth sciences, glaciology, climate science, and field research, while also learning technical backpacking, skiing, and mountaineering skills through Safety Training. It has been running since the 1940s, making it one of the longest continuous glacier-monitoring efforts in the Western Hemisphere. The program involves 1–2 day treks across glacial systems, carrying packs up to 35% of body weight with hikes of 8–10 miles (12–16 km) and 4,500 ft (1,500 m) elevation gain. No prior experience is required, and participants work closely with expert faculty and scientists. The program lasts one month, with applications accepted in October–December, and participants can find equipment requirements here. This combination of rigorous science, personal challenge, and remote expedition experience in one of the most dramatic glacial landscapes on Earth sets the program apart. Plus there is the opportunity to earn university credits!

Cost: $11,500 USD
Financial aid available at: https://juneauicefield.org/students/field-fees#:~:text=Financial%20Aid%20through,juneauicefield.org.