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Thoreau College Semester Program Application
Thank you for your interest in the Thoreau College Semester Program!
The Thoreau College Semester Program is a full-time program incorporating intellectual work, fine arts and traditional crafts, hands-on homesteading work, participatory self-governance, wilderness expeditions, and engaged community life. Each semester we explore a unique set of ideas and texts while engaging in activities set by the rhythms of the natural and agricultural year and by the Five Pillars of the Thoreau College curriculum (Academics, Labor, Community, Art, and Nature). Together with an intimate cohort of up to 12 fellow students, Semester Program participants embark on an immersive journey of discovery and growth through the changing seasons.
Students who complete the Thoreau College Semester Program are eligible for 15 transferable college credits per semester and can stay for more than one consecutive semester if they choose.
Thoreau College is strongly committed to financial accessibility and offers substantial financial aid through our flexible individual financial pledge process. 529 college savings accounts can be used for Thoreau College programs.
The application process includes several phases, outlined below. We will admit up to 12 qualified candidates for this cohort on a rolling basis. Get started now by clicking the button below!
Phase 1: Get the ball rolling today by completing this simple form
Completing this short form is the first step in the application process. Please tell us about your background and interest in our program. If you have any questions or would like a Word/PDF version of this application, contact us at admin@thoreaucollege.org.
Phase 2: Full Written Application
After reviewing your Phase 1 application, we will invite you to complete Phase 2 if it seems that you would be a good fit for the program. The Phase 2 application is more extensive than Phase 1 and will include longer essay questions. Your Phase 2 application will be due within 2 weeks of your invitation to complete it.
Phase 3: Interview & References
Once you have submitted Phase 2 of the application, you will be invited to participate in an interview with members of our Admissions Circle, which includes faculty and alumni of earlier programs. Interviews typically last about 45 minutes and can take place in person or via Zoom as circumstances allow. Applicants who are able to visit us in Viroqua are encouraged to do so! During this phase we will also contact personal references submitted as part of Phase 2.
Thoreau College is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination. Thoreau College is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, height, weight, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.