The TSS graduate program weaves together academic courses, teaching experiences and interdependent living to position students as effective place-based educators and committed difference-makers in community. The graduate program is a unique combination of academic and practical training through coursework in ecology, education, and authentic teaching experiences in Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone, as well as public and independent schools in the greater Wyoming landscape. We believe what truly sets us apart is the deep learning that graduate students experience, relationships built with peers and faculty, our creation of an intentional culture and the direct engagement of place.
- Deep Learning: Deep learning happens when you are connected to place, people, and self in authentic ways. Within our immersive program, graduate faculty facilitate learning experiences with a hands-on approach toward targeted outcomes. Faculty encourage students to reflect, think critically, and act with integrity. The TSS grad program uses a cohort model and block academics to emphasize depth over breadth.
- Relationships: Relationships are at the heart of the TSS graduate program. Graduate students live and learn with each other throughout the year, developing deep connections as they grow. Faculty mentorship is embedded into all aspects of the program and provides rich opportunities to learn alongside experts in the field through discussion, discovery and growth-oriented feedback.
- Culture: Our intentional culture is based on explicit shared values. These values are built every year with each incoming cohort, and have included: integrity, inclusion, passion, continuous learning, authenticity and love. Shared values act as guideposts and points of dialogue through the year.
- Place: Graduate students live and learn in Grand Teton National Park, allowing them to develop an intimate appreciation of and deep awareness for all aspects of place. The process of learning natural history, culture, and social-ecological systems of the greater Yellowstone ecosystem gives students the skills to effectively lead in any place or community.