Academics and Research

Hands-on Research and Education Opportunities

With assistance from a generous philanthropic gift to the NAU Foundation, Northern Arizona University acquired the historic Hat Ranch near Williams in April 2021. Located 70 miles south of the Grand Canyon, the ranch will provide research, teaching, and outreach opportunities for faculty, students, and partners. The Hat Ranch was established in the early 1800s and includes roughly 300 scenic acres and a variety of well-preserved period buildings. It is partially surrounded by more than 1,500 acres in conservation easement held by the Grand Canyon Trust.

The ranch is encircled by Kaibab National Forest and is nestled between ponderosa pine forest and piñon-juniper woodland. The land’s rich history of human use dates back to pre-Columbian times, making it a unique site to examine human impact on the environment. The ranch is a social-ecological focal point that both exemplifies and reflects a powerful meld of the past and the future.

Hat Ranch supports a variety of academic opportunities that enrich traditional coursework and expand experiential learning:

• Field Courses: Faculty-led classes held on-site, integrating lectures with immersive fieldwork.
• Capstone and Senior Projects: Applied research or design projects that address real-world challenges.
• Internships and Practicum Placements: Opportunities for students across disciplines to gain professional experience.
• Workshops, Retreats, and Institutes: Programs focused on leadership, sustainability, research methods, team-building, and more.

*The ranch operates seasonally, spring through fall. Please inquire for operating dates.