The NCOAE High School Summer Semester is an immersive, 32-day academic and outdoor adventure designed for rising 10th and 11th-grade students. This unique program combines on campus academics and field based research expeditions, with hands-on leadership training, offering students the opportunity to earn high school credit while exploring some of the world’s most breathtaking environments. Held in North Carolina, Oregon, and Ecuador, the Summer Semester blends classroom learning with real-world application in the outdoors.

Students enroll in Honors/Advanced Topics in Natural Science, a course that emphasizes ecological systems, environmental ethics, and scientific inquiry. They also complete a required elective in Outdoor Leadership, where they develop skills in backcountry navigation, risk management, and group dynamics. Both courses are aligned with national educational standards, and NCOAE partners with schools to ensure official credits transfer seamlessly.

Beyond academics, students gain valuable certifications in Outdoor Leadership and Leave No Trace (LNT), enhancing their college applications and future career prospects. The program emphasizes personal growth, teamwork, and environmental stewardship, preparing students to be resilient, capable leaders.

Through this transformative experience, participants emerge with academic achievements, leadership skills, and a deeper connection to the natural world—equipped to succeed in both academic and personal pursuits.