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Cultural Anthropology Field School in Sitka, Alaska
ANTH 4930 | 3 credits | August
Each August, Dr. Christopher Berk leads an unforgettable field school experience in Sitka, Alaska. This hands-on course explores the connections between culture, environment and tourism in a Southeast Alaskan fishing community.
Whether you’re interested in the environment, sustainability, history or Indigenous studies, this program offers a unique opportunity to learn outside the classroom. Students engage with local speakers, attend film screenings, hike through national parks and tour local businesses, wildlife sanctuaries, salmon hatcheries and museums. You’ll also gain valuable research experience by collecting your own qualitative data in the field.
The course fee—typically $2,600 (not including airfare or tuition)—covers housing, many meals, museum and wildlife sanctuary admissions (such as Fortress of the Bear and the Alaska Raptor Center), a cruise in the Sitka Sound and all local speakers and guides.
Open to all majors! Applications open in September of the year prior. To learn more or apply, contact Dr. Berk at cdb0066@auburn.edu.
What Students Are Saying
“I’m really glad I came on this trip with Dr. Berk because while I did have fun, I also learned in a way a classroom can’t replicate.”
“The Sitka field course is an amazing experience that I think every college student needs—regardless of your major.”
“Traveling to Sitka is the trip of a lifetime. I learned so much about the community and culture—both Native and non-Native—the wildlife, the food and the tourism industry.”
“I can say, without a doubt, this has been an extraordinary experience.”
“You’ll surprise yourself with how much you can learn and do in just nine days.”
“It’s the coolest class I have ever taken.”