How old do I have to be to take a Wilderness Medicine course?
Wilderness First Aid: 16 years old Wilderness Advanced First Aid: 16 years old Wilderness First Responder: 16 years old Wilderness EMT: 18 years old
Read MoreHow old do I have to be to take a course?
We offer courses for teens and adults. Age requirements vary based on the course or program.
Read MoreHow much financial aid is available?
NOLS awards approximately $1.9 million in scholarships annually. Award amounts vary based on demonstrated financial need and available funds. Awards typically cover a portion of tuition, though some students receive funding covering a significant share of the total cost.
Read MoreHow do you handle emergencies?
All NOLS instructors hold wilderness medicine certifications and carry communication devices for emergency contact. Detailed evacuation plans are established for every course area. A 24/7 operations center monitors all field courses and coordinates with local search and rescue when needed.
Read MoreHow do I sponsor a NOLS Wilderness Medicine course?
Find information on how to host a course on our sponsors page.
Read MoreHow do I replace my Wilderness Medicine Certification card?
Contact us at [email protected]
Read MoreHow do I register for a course?
Browse our course catalog online and select the course that fits your goals. You can register directly on the course page by completing the enrollment form and submitting a deposit. Our admissions team will follow up with next steps and a pre-course packet.
Read MoreHow do I recertify?
WFR certifications are valid for two years. You can recertify through a 16-24 hour in-person recertification course or the NOLS Hybrid WFR Recertification which combines online learning with a shorter in-person component. Browse upcoming recert courses on our website.
Read MoreHow do I apply for financial aid?
Submit a financial aid application through the NOLS website after enrolling in a course. The application asks about your financial situation and why you want to attend NOLS. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and we encourage applying early for the best chance of receiving an award.
Read MoreHow difficult are these trips?
Trips vary in difficulty. Each trip page has a scale indicating relative difficulty. But if you have questions or concerns about a trip, please just ask!
Read MoreHow are groups structured?
Groups typically include 10-12 students with 2-3 instructors. On longer courses, groups may split into smaller teams for independent travel sections where students practice leadership. This small group size ensures personalized instruction and meaningful relationships.
Read MoreDoes NOLS provide equipment?
Yes. NOLS provides all group equipment including tents, stoves, cooking gear, climbing hardware, boats, and specialized technical equipment. Students are responsible for personal gear like clothing, boots, sleeping bag, and backpack.
Read MoreDoes NOLS accept AmeriCorps education awards for course payment?
Yes! Find more information about AmeriCorps award policies on our financial aid page.
Read MoreDo I need to have prior experience camping or the outdoors?
Most of our courses do not require any prior experience. However, we do suggest a level of physical fitness based on the anticipated demands of the course. For more info, check our fitness guidelines.
Read MoreDo I need outdoor experience?
Most NOLS courses require no prior outdoor experience. Our instructors teach everything from the ground up, including camping, navigation, cooking, and technical skills. Some advanced courses like mountaineering may recommend prior backpacking experience.
Read MoreDo I need medical experience?
No prior medical experience is required for WFA or WFR courses. Our curriculum is designed to teach everything from the basics up. WEMT students should have a WFR or equivalent certification before enrolling, as the course builds on that foundation.
Read MoreCan I transfer to a different course?
Yes, transfers are available subject to course availability and timing. Contact our admissions team as early as possible to discuss options. A transfer fee may apply depending on how close to the start date the change is made.
Read MoreCan I purchase tuition protection and travel insurance for my course?
NOLS works with MDM Group to provide optional Tuition Protection and Travel Insurance coverage for our students. Please visit the dedicated webpage to learn more about available options and costs. Plans are provided by Co-ordinated Benefits. To reach a Plan Administrator, email or call 866-224-4594.
Read MoreCan I get academic credit?
You can earn credit from your course or training for high school, college, and a variety of continuing education programs. Though we’re different than a traditional academic program, we are recognized for teaching outdoor education, leadership, wilderness medicine, risk management, and conservation.
Read MoreCan I get a scholarship for my NOLS course?
Yes! We have numerous scholarships for our programs and courses. Find out how to apply on our financial aid page.
Read MoreCan I earn college credit?
Yes. Many NOLS courses offer college credit through the University of Utah. Semester courses can earn up to 16 credits. Credit eligibility and amounts are listed on each course page. Most colleges and universities accept NOLS transfer credits.
Read MoreCan I combine NOLS aid with outside scholarships?
Absolutely. Many students combine NOLS financial aid with outside scholarships, employer tuition assistance, or GI Bill benefits. Our financial aid team can help you identify external funding sources and coordinate multiple awards.
Read MoreCan family contact me during a course?
Students are generally not reachable by phone or email while in the field. In case of a family emergency, NOLS operations staff can relay urgent messages to instructors via satellite communication. Families receive check-in updates during longer courses through the NOLS portal.
Read MoreAre Wilderness Medicine courses approved for Veterans Benefits?
Yes! Learn more about Veteran Benefits on our financial aid page.
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