IWLS Semesters
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    -Sunset over central Andes.
photo: Kevin Forster



    "The instructors were very involved and took pride in what they were teaching. They had excellent skill mastery and it is obvious that they love what they do."
– Matt E.


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    -Sea Kayaking in Glacier Bay.
photo: Brian McGorry


    Semester Programs

   IWLS semester programs   cover a broad range of technical skills while building a solid experience base in decision making, judgment, and risk assessment. Whether you choose an IWLS semester to develop your professional goals, take time to get outside and break away from conventional classrooms or simply to have the adventure of a lifetime, there is an IWLS semester program that is right for you.


    IWLS semester courses are among the most substantial and complete outdoor education and guide training programs available. Experientially, the multiple sections of an IWLS semester build upon each other and foster a high level of leadership development. The compounded effect of experience, leadership opportunities, decision making, and safety awareness that evolve within the 80 days of an outdoor semester cultivates competent, confident, and professional outdoor leaders. Students receive up to 20 college credits for an IWLS semester.

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IWLS semester courses around the world:


Alaska
    From glaciated summits  to rolling alpine tundra, mighty wilderness rivers to dramatic ocean fjords, the Alaska IWLS semester is a true wilderness experience. The skills learned in the rugged Alaskan backcountry carry forth to most corners of the globe.



Pacific Northwest
   Whether rafting   on the Owyhee, paddling the San Juans, or climbing an alpine rock ridge in the North Cascades, this guide training semester explores some of the hidden gems of the Northwest.



Utah & Nevada
   The canyons of the southwest   continental US, famous powder snow, waterfall ice and legendary rock climbing complete this semester.



Mexico
   From the snowy heights   of the third highest peak in North America to the warm, azure inlets of Baja, the international semester program in Mexico gives students opportunities to lead and excel in this geographically and culturally diverse country.


Argentina
   The high desert of the central Andes,   immaculate alpine rock, and exciting rivers are set beneath Aconcagua, the tallest peak in the Western hemisphere. Semester students in Argentina develop solid rock climbing skills, high altitude experience, raft guiding skills on the Mendoza River, and comprehensive first aid and rescue techniques.


Patagonia
   Patagonia.   The name itself conjures images of adventure and discovery. Equal parts Chile and Argentina, the southern backbone of the Andes hosts an untouched wilderness of incredible beauty. It is a land of legendary allure and mystique, home to lofty Andean peaks, massive glaciers, and deep fjords.


Nepal
   Students on the Nepal semester   trek and mountaineer among the highest peaks in the world, learn first aid and rescue skills in the Everest Region, raft guiding skills on the mighty Karnali River, and devote time toward community service with the Sherpa people.


Tanzania
   Trek to the top   of the tallest peaks on the continent, volunteer and support local projects and learn comprehensive emergency response skills in this developing country.


A Year with IWLS
   The longest program at IWLS   spans the continent, from the glaciated peaks and fjords of Alaska to the sandy beaches of Baja California. In a year, you’ll climb the third highest peak in North America, explore glaciers of the largest non-polar ice cap in the world, paddle in the largest protected wilderness area in the world, explore slot canyons of the southwestern US, and raft the mighty rivers of the US Pacific Northwest or Yukon Territory of Canada.


We invite you to join us for an unparalleled wilderness learning experience!

Please contact us if you have any questions, or,
if you would like any additional information.

Phone: 1.800.985.IWLS (4957)
Email:
info@iwls.com