Requirements for Admission

The most important selection criterion for EcoQuest participants is motivation. We invite applications from forward-thinking students who have already embarked on their personal quest to gain understanding of how our planet functions to acquire practical research and management tools that lead to more sustainable actions by the human species.

This program is founded on the importance of ecosystem biodiversity and how to achieve effective communication among different cultures, interest groups, scientists and designated government bodies in order to develop sustainable management systems. It will build on most of the ideas and questions that you have formulated in your work over many years as a student. We will take you far away from the walls of conventional learning institutions. This is not as much a course for conservation-minded people as it is one for open-minded conceptual thinkers who are developing a multidisciplinary approach to today's issues. During your stay in New Zealand you will be challenged to combine your existing knowledge and awareness with new experiences and concepts that will come to you through involvement in real-world issues and problem solving.

We encourage a diversity of origins, backgrounds and viewpoints among our students to provide a dynamic situation with a maximum of learning potential.

General Prerequisites

Successful completion of at least 48 semester credit hours (or equivalent) of college or university studies, including at least one semester course in the natural sciences (biology, chemistry, earth sciences, physics) and one in the social sciences (anthropology, economics, geography, political science, sociology).

A moderately high degree of physical fitness, including the ability to swim competently, to participate in the occasional overnight hike, and to work outside for extended periods in all weather.

Agreement with the fundamental principles of intensive study, group cooperation, conservation ethic, and personal responsibility that are central to the EcoQuest living and learning environment.

Non-native speakers of English must demonstrate competency in English in an interview situation.