Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a GPA requirement for the course?

Officially, no. You do need to be "on track to graduation," which means that the 3.0 credits you'll earn in SFS, when added to those you already have, will satisfy the graduation requirements of your home school.

What classes do I need to take 1st semester of senior year?

You must take and pass Economics and English first semester of senior year. Besides that, be sure you will have your PE, Science, and Math graduation requirements fulfilled before enrolling in SFS.

Do I need to be enrolled at Bear Creek High School?

No, but you must be enrolled as a senior in Jeffco Public Schools and be "on track to graduation." We accepts students from any Jeffco high school.

Will I be able to participate in extracurricular activities in the spring, like sports or the Spring Musical?

Field Studies will take you on about 4 weeks worth of overnight trips. Class usually gets out around noon when we are in town, but on the overnight trips you won't be able to attend practice, games, rehearsals, etc. Check with your coach or program director let them know you are considering SFS. The final decision is up to him or her.

I'm concerned about the cost. Do I need to pay the $1400 up front?

No. The $1400 is officially due at the beginning of the program in January, but students with a history of fundraising may continue to do so until the program ends in May. See the Fundraising Page for more information.

Do colleges frown upon enrollment in a program like SFS?

No way! By second semester of your senior year, you will have already established a track record of academic performance. On the other hand, many college officials say their biggest struggle with incoming freshmen is their lack of professional skills, world knowledge, and grit. SFS teaches you all three.

How does SFS keep students safe on all these crazy trips?

Great question! SFS has an excellent track record for safety. The students themselves are trained in a hands-on Wilderness First Aid certification course. All SFS leaders and drivers are vetted by Jeffco HR and risk management departments. SFS has extensive risk mitigation protocols. Emergency GPS transmitters and satellite phones are brought into the field, and many SFS leaders are professional wilderness guides and/or paramedics. We are dedicated to safety.