Why NOLS Is Worth It

NOLS courses have the power to change how people view the world around them. Every year, we have thousands of students say that NOLS is a worthy investment — not just for the course itself but for the enriching experience and continuous learning it offers. NOLS goes beyond traditional education and wilderness adventures, providing a deep and impactful journey that fosters personal, academic, and professional growth. Our curriculum is meticulously crafted to enhance leadership abilities, practical outdoor skills, and environmental stewardship. This comprehensive approach means that the skills and personal development acquired during each NOLS course deliver enduring value, transforming the financial commitment into a significant pathway toward continuous growth.

Absolutely. A NOLS diploma not only garners recognition and respect from universities, employers, and professional circles but also serves as a gateway to a close-knit and loyal community of NOLS alumni. This emblem of achievement in leadership and outdoor education marks you as a distinctive candidate in any competitive setting and the skills and experiences cultivated through NOLS courses—like leadership, risk management, and environmental stewardship—make your resume shine. 

Additionally, the connections formed with other NOLS alumni offer unique networking opportunities. As expressed by a prominent NOLS alum, "Every time I see NOLS on a resume, I make a personal effort to reach out to them. While not every interaction leads to employment, it identifies the individual as someone capable of contributing significantly to a strong team."

Yes, NOLS courses significantly enhance college applications by demonstrating a commitment to personal growth, leadership development, and environmental stewardship. The hands-on learning experience, the ability to earn college credits, and the development of critical life skills through NOLS are viewed positively by admissions committees, offering a unique edge to applicants.

NOLS courses offer a range of benefits, including leadership development, practical outdoor adventure skills, wilderness first aid training, risk management, and environmental stewardship. Participants gain transferable academic benefits, industry-standard certifications, and valuable life skills. The experience fosters personal growth, academic advancement, and professional development in unique and enriching settings.

Participants learn a variety of life skills, including decision-making, teamwork, leadership, resilience, and adaptability. NOLS expeditions also teach practical outdoor skills, environmental ethics, and risk management, alongside fostering a deep appreciation for nature and sustainability. Alumni stories highlight personal transformation,the discovery of self, and the cultivation of meaningful relationships.
In terms of personal and leadership development, what can one expect from a NOLS course?
NOLS courses offer unparalleled opportunities for personal growth and leadership development. Participants can expect to develop a strong sense of self, enhance their leadership style, and build confidence in their abilities to lead and work within teams. Courses are designed to push individuals out of their comfort zones, fostering growth, resilience, and a deep understanding of effective leadership in various situations.

The value of a NOLS course is well worth the financial investment when considering the breadth of skills, personal growth, and professional opportunities gained. In just one week of a NOLS course, participants learn to guide their own adventures, acquiring the confidence and skills to plan and execute outdoor expeditions independently. This hands-on experience is invaluable and unmatched by most other programs. Beyond the adventure, participants have the opportunity to earn college credits, valuable certifications, and a lifetime of benefits, including leadership skills, environmental stewardship, and personal development. These benefits often outweigh those of traditional semester abroad programs or guided tours. 

For example, a 30-day Rocky Mountain Backpacking Course for Ages 18+ offered through NOLS is notably $500-$1,000 less expensive than those offered by Outward Bound, providing similar or enhanced experiences at a more accessible price point. To further offset the monetary cost, NOLS also offers a sliding scale of affordability for students in need to make courses more accessible.