Summer Semester
High School Summer Semester – 10/11th Grade Ecuador
Adventure First
Get ready for a summer that goes beyond borders, set in the extraordinary landscapes of Ecuador. From the towering peaks of the Andes Mountains to the lush Amazon rainforest, Ecuador becomes your ultimate outdoor classroom. The Ecuador High School Summer Semester offers rising 10th and 11th graders the chance to earn high school credits while embarking on a life-changing, 32-day adventure. This program combines outdoor exploration, Spanish language immersion, and cultural engagement with Ecuador’s indigenous tribes. It’s designed to push your boundaries, foster personal growth, and prepare you to succeed in the future.
EDUCATION ALWAYS
Academic Excellence Meets Outdoor Adventure
The Ecuador High School Summer Semester offers an experiential and immersive learning experience. You’ll engage in an Honors Natural Science, gaining a deep understanding of Ecuador’s ecosystems through hands-on field research in the Amazon and the Andean highlands. These experiences are designed to meet high school credit requirements, blending academic rigor with practical, real-world applications.
But that’s not all—your journey will also include Spanish language immersion and cultural exchanges with indigenous Ecuadorian tribes, offering insight into their way of life, traditions, and environmental stewardship. This unique blend of academic and cultural learning will give you a broader global perspective.
Additionally, you’ll complete a required elective in Outdoor Leadership, honing leadership skills like problem-solving, communication, and teamwork. You’ll return home with Outdoor Leadership, Wilderness Medicine, and Leave No Trace (LNT) certifications, preparing you to lead responsibly in any outdoor environment and advocate for environmental conservation.
A Journey That Blends Science, Nature, Language, and Culture
Spend 32 days exploring Ecuador’s rich biodiversity while gaining academic knowledge, leadership skills, and cultural insight. This is more than just a summer—it’s an opportunity to become a global citizen, fully immersed in one of the world’s most fascinating natural and cultural landscapes.
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. - Spanish Language Credit (0.5): Earn credit for intermediate Spanish language and cultural immersion.
Highlights
Explore, Learn, Lead: The Ultimate Outdoor Classroom in Ecuador
At NCOAE Ecuador, life on campus begins with breathtaking views of the snow-covered peaks of the Andes Mountains from our sustainable farm and base camp. Students are fully immersed in the rich culture and Spanish language of the region, engaging in a transformative academic journey centered around environmental sustainability, eco-forestry, and leadership. Guided by the principles of experiential education, each day combines rigorous coursework with hands-on experiences, from working on sustainable farming practices to exploring the diverse ecosystems of the Andes and Amazon River basin. This immersive approach fosters a deep understanding of the natural world, local culture, and the skills needed to lead with purpose and resilience.
On the Map
- Quito, Ecuador
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 Ecuador High School Summer Semester?
This is a 32-day accredited program for 10th and 11th-grade students, combining academic learning, cultural immersion, and outdoor leadership experiences in Ecuador. Students earn credits in Honors Natural Science: Advanced Topics in Anthropogenic Effects, Spanish language, and 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 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 the U.S. and around the world, seeking an academically challenging experience combined with cultural and outdoor adventure in Ecuador.
What academic credits can I earn?
Students earn 0.5 official high school credits in Honors Natural Science: Advanced Topics in Anthropogenic Effects, Spanish language, 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 wide range of outdoor activities such as backpacking, camping, canoeing or rafting, and leadership training. Students will also engage in hands-on environmental science projects and cultural exploration through guided trips to historical and ecological sites in Ecuador.
Do I need prior Spanish language experience?
Yes, proof of completion of Spanish level 1 or higher is required for this course. This can be provided via official transcript from your home school.
Do I need prior outdoor experience?
No prior outdoor experience is required. The program is designed to teach students both outdoor skills and foundational Spanish language throughout the course.
Where does the program take place?
This semester begins in Wilmington, North Carolina, and continues in Ecuador. Students will travel to various regions of Ecuador including the Andes, Amazon rainforest, and indigenous communities, providing a rich cultural and natural learning experience.
Will I receive certifications?
Yes, students can earn certifications in Wilderness Medicine, Outdoor Leadership, and Leave NoTrace (LNT) upon successful completion of the program.
How are academic classes taught in Ecuador?
The academic curriculum is fully integrated into the Ecuadorian environment. Natural Science lessons are tied to Ecuador’s unique ecosystems, and Spanish language classes are immersive, incorporating interaction with local communities and cultural excursions. Experiential learning is central to the program’s teaching approach.
What safety measures are in place?
Safety is our top priority. All instructors are certified in a minimum of wilderness first aid, and we follow strict safety protocols throughout the program. Additionally, students receive comprehensive training in wilderness safety and emergency procedures, especially in international settings.
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.
