Photo Credit: Matt Hage

Hybrid Wilderness First Responder

Hybrid Wilderness First Responder

If you work or recreate in the outdoors or in other austere environments where access to medical care is delayed or communication is unreliable, our Wilderness First Responder course is for you. It is the industry standard for professional guides, trip leaders, search and rescue team members, outdoor recreationists, and international travelers.

The Hybrid WFR combines 3 modules of online learning with 5 days of in-person training. You’ll begin by completing work in an online platform that includes readings, videos and quizzes. Each module requires 10 to 15 hours to complete, and you’ll need to finish them before the in-person portion begins. The 5-day in-person course will focus on skills and scenarios.

Upon completion, you will be able to conduct a thorough physical exam, obtain a patient history, assess vital signs, provide emergency care in the wilderness, and make crucial evacuation decisions.

You’ll learn both in the classroom and in outdoor settings regardless of weather, so come prepared for wet, muddy, cold, or hot environments!

Course Policies
Please review our policies including cancellation policies, attendance requirements, minimum age requirements, and more.

Also see our Wilderness First Responder course.

Resources & Downloads
Additional Details

Continuing Education (Learn More)
This course is pre-approved for 62 hours of EMT Continuing Education Hours by the  Commission on Accreditation of Pre-Hospital Continuing Education (CAPCE).

If you’re an active member of the Wilderness Medical Society, you may earn up to 55 hours of credit towards a Fellowship of the Academy of Wilderness Medicine (FAWM) with this course. Check with the Wilderness Medical Society for your personal credit details.

Academic Credit (Learn more)
This course is approved for 3 college credits through the University of Utah and 3 college credits through Western Colorado University.

Course Approval
This course is recognized by the American Camp Association to meet specific ACA standards requiring certifications. The course meets the  Boy Scouts of America Wilderness First Aid training requirements. Additionally, the Wilderness First Aid course (WILDMI-554), and when included the CPR/AED course (WILDMI-134), are approved by the  United States Coast Guard  to meet the first aid and CPR training requirements of 46 CFR 11.201(i)(1)(ii) and  46 CFR 11.201(i)(2)(iiI) for a merchant mariner credential.

Customer Service


Registration and all customer service for this course are handled by NOLS Wilderness Medicine.

Details

Jul 20, 2025 - Jul 24, 2025

Fort Collins, CO

CSU Outdoor Program

Duration

80 hours

Age

16+ yrs

Tuition Options

  • $925.00 - General Public
  • $825.00 - Colorado State University Student

Academic Credit

3 College Credits

  • 3 Credits for WFR from University of Utah or Western Colorado University

Certifications

  • Wilderness First Responder
  • CPR
  • Epinephrine Auto-injector

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Deposit

Deposit required: $300

Start/End

Varies

Fly In/Out

Varies

Financial aid & Scholarships

NOLS supports a variety of outside financial aid options:

  • AmeriCorps
  • 529 College Savings Plans
  • Veteran's Benefits (In Wyoming only)

If you are fluent in American Sign Language or Signed Exact English, you may be eligible to receive a full scholarship to your wilderness medicine course.

Keep Your Hybrid WFR Certification Current

How long does a WFR certification last?

A NOLS Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification is valid for 2 years.
Make sure to recertify with a WFR Recertification course or a Hybrid WFR Recertification course before your expiration date. Or, look into our WAFA and WFA courses for other recertification options.