
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.”
What Maine Coast Semester Alumni Have to Say!
To the Point
Our Student Blog
DITL: Maine Coast Semester
6:45 | Wake up The morning starts with a loud 6:45 wakeup- everyone’s alarms go off at the same time, …
Wild Wonki Wizards!
As classes were beginning and my peers and I were just beginning to know each other, I discovered a common …
Oh Dear, A Deer!
This blog post is brought to you by Binnacle Member number three of five. Our cabin, Binnacle, is located in …
Books and Best Buddies
Growing up, I have always been an avid reader. I was always a more advanced reader than my peers and …
Ha-MOOSE-inating in Maine
For some reason, I’ve always had an affinity for moose (or as I like to call them, Meese). They’re just …
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 …