Life-Changing Learning in Nature

For High School Juniors and Seniors

Why Choose Maine Coast Semester?

Maine Coast Semester offers a unique, four-month educational program that takes students out of the traditional classroom and into a hands-on, experiential learning environment. Our program includes backcountry adventures, science field labs, and daily opportunities to learn about sustainable living. Graduates often describe Maine Coast Semester as “the place where I learned how to make a difference in the world.”

During the semester, students participate in rigorous and relevant academic classes, and interact with a diverse group of peers and educators from across the country. The natural landscapes of Maine, including rocky shores, salt marshes, boreal forests, and sandy beaches, serve as the primary setting for this educational experience. Students also have the opportunity to become part of a close-knit community, where we work collaboratively on tasks such as farming, wood splitting, and other responsibilities that are crucial to the functioning of the group.

Maine Coast Semester is the perfect choice for students looking for a unique and meaningful educational experience that will prepare them for college and well beyond. With our emphasis on hands-on, experiential learning, you will gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence to make a positive and lasting impact on the world.

What's so unique about a Maine Coast Semester experience?

The Coast of Maine

Over 400 unspoiled acres on the Maine Coast are yours for inspiration, education, and exploration, whether you’re modeling tidal changes, designing energy-friendly buildings, or hiking our network of trails.

The Academics

With a 3:1 student-faculty ratio, a rigorous curriculum, and the natural world as a laboratory, Maine Coast Semester challenges you to break through classroom walls and not just learn, but do.

The Backcountry

Not every classroom is in a room. You’ll learn life-long skills to hike, paddle, camp, and explore the natural world.

The Farm

Put your head, heart, and hands to work growing and harvesting food and caring for livestock on our sustainable, working organic farm. You won’t just learn about sustainability, you’ll live it.

You should go!

“I learned what a positive and inclusive community really is, and I gained a much deeper appreciation for the natural world. I pushed myself academically through the small class sizes and hands-on learning.”

10 years later...

“…I am continually discovering new things about myself that I can trace back to Chewonki. It has been a hugely transformational experience, and not just in the short term.”

I was challenged...

“…academically, socially, and my world-view grew. I made lifelong friends who I am still in touch with, and I carry the memories and lessons from my time at Maine Coast Semester with me every day.” 

My semester experience...

“…was formative in my college choice, and my path as an educator. It was one of the single most impactful experiences in my life, and has inspired me to create and build community where I go.”

What Maine Coast Semester Alumni Have to Say!

To the Point

Our Student Blog

The Search for a Director is On!

The Search is On!

We are excited to announce the start of our search for the next director of Maine Coast Semester! We are …

A Springtime Swim

I had just gotten back to my cabin after our field lab when suddenly we heard a knock at the …

Going Solo! – 48 Hours on Chewonki Neck

Applying to Maine Coast Semester, I always knew about the iconic Chewonki Solo. Sure, it was 48 hours spent out …

Big Night: A Blog From the Frogs

I came to Maine Coast Semester for many reasons, but amphibians were not one of them. I was oblivious to …

Introducing our 2023 Maine Youth Environmental Leaders Scholars

We are pleased to announce the 2023 recipients of the “Maine Youth Environmental Leaders Scholarships (MYELS),” a $15,000 scholarship awarded …

Get Tickets for Homecoming Day, September 16

Pack up your dancing shoes, grab your loved ones, and join us on the stunning coast of Maine this September for a day of rustic fun and celebration!

Outdoor Leadership Weekend!

From Thursday to Sunday last week we had our Outdoor Leadership Weekend, and I was put into the half of …

The Power of the Plunge

On January 29, 2023, day one at Chewonki, I completed my first-ever polar bear plunge. Having only before this day …

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