Courage is our (un)common denominator.

Corps of Discovery will push your limits and provide you with new perspective – on life and self. Physical challenges, like rafting on the Missouri River, will hone your team-building and leadership skills while classroom activities will guide you through your inner terrain in search of key principles, core values, your life’s purpose, and talents. 

The Corps of Discovery is a signature program for new students at the University of Great Falls. It is required for all full-time, first-year students who are pursuing their degrees on campus. The purpose of the program is to foster emotional, spiritual, and physical development, and a shared cohort bonding experience throughout many dimensions of university life.

The Corps of Discovery students meet in the classroom one hour each week and gather beyond the classroom on evenings and weekends. Class sessions provide students with the tools that help them become academically and socially successful at the University of Great Falls. Students also interact with campus faculty and community experts in a wide variety of engaging and experiential course workshops. The academic component is broad and inclusive – introducing students to collegiate living and learning – yet focuses on one's own awareness.

During field experiences, students teach and learn from their peers. They face demanding physical challenges like river rafting, hiking, and downhill skiing. Students visit museums and other cultural attractions in and around Great Falls. They also volunteer their time and energies to local community groups through cohort service projects. Students also participate in retreat weekends to reflect upon and deepen their own values and faiths.

The program ultimately prepares students for living and making a living.

Click here to see pictures of the Corps of Discovery in the online photo gallery.