Outward Bound can help you charter your academic course.

Academic Credit

As the oldest and leading provider of experiential education, universities across the globe recognize the value of an Outward Bound course.

While Northwest Outward Bound School is not a degree granting institution, we do offer credit bearing courses through our accredited partner, Western Colorado University (WCU). Additionally, some institutions award academic credit through independent study programs. 

Your home university must approve your program and accompanying transfer credit before you embark on course. See your academic advisor or registrar for your school's specific policy on transfer credit approval. Upon successful course completion, you will receive an official transcript from WCU so you may transfer the awarded credit to your university. Please note: additional fees from WCU may apply.

Earning transfer credit

529 College Saving Plans and AmeriCorps Education Awards

We accept 529 College Saving Plans and AmeriCorps Education Awards! Students wanting to attend Northwest Outward Bound School with assistance from their 529, AmeriCorps Education Award or most other College Saving Plans may do so. Through our partnership with WCU, we can accept 529 College Saving Plans through their Extended Studies program and anyone can register – you do not have to be a current WCU student. As a result, you will also earn academic credit for your Northwest Outward Bound School course. Please note: additional fees from WCU may apply.

Paying with 529 funds 

Service-Learning Credit

Many of our courses that are 14+ days long have a service project component that some schools accept as service learning credit. Prior to course start, ask your school counselor if your Outward Bound course will contribute to your service learning requirement. You must bring your school's required paperwork with you for your instructors to complete at course start.