Summer Semester
High School Summer Semester – 10/11th Grade North Carolina
Adventure First
EDUCATION ALWAYS
Academic Excellence Meets Outdoor Adventure
Our North Carolina High School Summer Semester isn’t just about exploring the outdoors—it’s about advancing your education. You’ll tackle honors Natural Science, gaining in-depth knowledge of environmental science through fieldwork, research, and hands-on learning. The course is designed to meet high school credit requirements, meaning your time with us propels you forward in your academic journey.
In addition, our program features a required elective in Outdoor Leadership, where you’ll sharpen your problem-solving, communication, and team-building skills—tools you’ll use in college, career, and life. As part of the experience, you’ll earn certifications in Outdoor Leadership, Wilderness Medicine, and Leave No Trace (LNT), equipping you to be a leader in outdoor settings and a steward of the environment.
Certifications Earned
- Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certification (valid for 3 years)
- Leave No Trace certification
- Outdoor Leadership certification
Course Details
- Outdoor Leadership: Master expedition planning, risk management, and decision-making in diverse outdoor environments.
- Wilderness Skills: Gain practical skills in navigation, shelter building, first aid, and Leave No Trace (LNT) principles.
- Teamwork and Communication: Develop collaboration and problem-solving abilities through group challenges and leadership rotations.
- Scientific Inquiry: Apply hands-on learning in natural sciences, focusing on ecological systems and environmental stewardship.
- Cultural Competency: Build understanding and adaptability through immersive experiences in diverse settings like Ecuador or other program locations.
- Leave No Trace Certification: Receive recognition for expertise in environmental ethics and sustainability practices.
- Interdisciplinary Learning Integration: Gain transferrable skills applicable to science, geography, and personal development coursework.
- Global and Local Perspectives: Engage in comparative cultural and environmental studies to satisfy global studies requirements.
- Honors Natural Science: Advanced Topics in Anthropogenic Effects Credit (0.5): Fulfill advanced coursework requirements with a focus on ecology and field studies.
- Outdoor Leadership Elective Credit (0.5): Earn credit for in-depth training in leadership and experiential education.
Highlights
Explore, Learn, Lead: The Ultimate Outdoor Classroom
At NCOAE North Carolina, life on campus is an engaging mix of academics, adventure, and community building, all rooted in the principles of experiential education. A typical day might start with an early morning yoga session or a beach walk at sunrise, followed by an interactive class on ecology or ocean dynamics. The afternoon could be spent applying these lessons in real-world settings, like surfing or sea kayaking along the North Carolina coast or climbing at a nearby gym. Evenings provide time for reflection, group discussions, and bonding activities around a campfire or in small groups. This blend of rigorous academics and outdoor adventure prepares students for their field experiences and research, allowing them to connect deeply with both their studies and their peers.
On the Map
- NCOAE Wilmington, NC
Talk to Us
Have any further questions about the course location, what you'll learn, or what else to expect? Contact us, we're here to help!
DATES
FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the North Carolina High School Summer Semester?
This is a 32-day accredited program for 10th and 11th-grade students, offering a mix of academic and outdoor leadership experiences. Students earn credits in Honors Natural Science and an elective in Outdoor Leadership, with opportunities for certifications such as Leave No Trace (LNT).
Is NCOAE an accredited school?
Yes. NCOAE is accredited by Cognia (formerly SACS) and is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. We are also accredited by the Association for Experiential Education (AEE) and the Commission on Accreditation for PreHospital Continuing Education (CAPCE).
Who is eligible to participate?
The program is open to rising 10th and 11th-grade students from within the U.S and around the world, who are looking for an academically challenging and adventurous experience.
What academic credits can I earn?
Students earn 0.5 official high school credits in Honors Natural Science: Advanced Topics in Anthropogenic Effects and 0.5 credits as an elective credit in Outdoor Leadership. These credits can be transferred back to your home school.
What kind of outdoor activities are involved?
The course includes a variety of outdoor activities such as backpacking, camping, and canoeing or rafting as well as leadership training. Students also learn essential outdoor skills and participate in hands-on environmental science lessons and research.
Do I need prior outdoor experience?
No prior outdoor experience is required. The course is designed to teach students all necessary outdoor skills during the program.
Where does the program take place?
This semester starts and ends at our North Carolina campus in Wilmington, NC. We also journey into various wilderness areas throughout the state, utilizing its diverse natural landscapes for both academic and leadership training.
Will I receive certifications?
Yes, students can earn certifications in Wilderness Medicine, Outdoor Leadership, and Leave No Trace (LNT) upon successful completion of the program.
How are the academic classes taught in the wilderness?
The academic curriculum is integrated into the outdoor setting, with lessons tied to the environment. Students engage in experiential learning, applying scientific concepts directly to real-world ecosystems and challenges.
What safety measures are in place?
Safety is our top priority. All instructors are certified in a minimum of wilderness first aid, and the program follows strict safety protocols. Additionally, students receive training in wilderness safety and emergency procedures.
How much does the program cost?
Please contact NCOAE directly for the most up-to-date tuition information. Financial aid and scholarships may be available for eligible students.
What is the student-to-instructor ratio?
We maintain a low student-to-instructor ratio to ensure personalized attention and instruction. There is one instructor for every six students.
How do I apply?
Interested students can apply through the NCOAE website. The application includes a form, a short essay, and a recommendation from a teacher or mentor. Early applications are encouraged as spots are limited.
