Summer Programs
Summer Programs
Summers full of discovery, creativity, and coastal adventure
Even when classes pause, College of the Atlantic is teeming with activity. From day camps for young learners to professional events and immersive college-credit courses, our summer programs reflect the same spirit of inquiry and community as the rest of the academic year.
pre-college programs
earn college credit on the coast of maine
College of the Atlantic pre-college programs offer rising high school juniors and seniors with the opportunity to spend time exploring and learning on the coast of Maine.
College professors and instructors offer a range of interdisciplinary, experiential courses each summer.
Summer Field Studies
A nature-based day camp for children entering grades 1–6
College of the Atlantic Summer Field Studies fosters wonder, confidence, and a love for the natural world. Through hands-on, minds-on activities—including field games, nature walks, and creative play—campers explore the unique ecosystems of Mount Desert Island while building friendships and developing new skills.
Led by a certified and caring team, each session offers a fun, safe, and engaging environment for growth and discovery.
Summer Institute
The COA Summer Institute is our signature week-long ideas festival, welcoming thought leaders from across disciplines to explore critical global issues—from climate change and food systems to justice, politics, and culture. Each year includes a themed slate of keynote talks, in-depth discussions, and community gatherings.
All events are free and open to the public.
Coffee & Conversation
weekly discussion series
Coffee & Conversation is a weekly summer series that brings together authors, scholars, entrepreneurs, artists, and scientists for informal, thought-provoking discussions with COA faculty and trustees.
Sessions are free and open to the public, held weekly on Tuesdays in July and August. Pre-registration is required.
Conference & Event Rentals
Our oceanfront campus, located between Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor, hosts a wide variety of inspiring events each summer. We offer dormitory-style lodging, on-site dining, and flexible indoor/outdoor venues. Inquire with us if you’d like to use our facilities for your upcoming conference or event.
Stories from the Field
Endowment and innovation keep Bar Harbor college viable, new interim leader says
Lynn Boulger, who will serve as the College of the Atlantic’s interim president, comments to Bangor Daily News about how COA’s healthy endowment and innovative programs insulate the school from a wave of closures of small liberal arts colleges. Read More
From rare visitors to regular sightings, the bears in Acadia National Park
College of the Atlantic students and faculty will collaborate with the National Park Service and Maine Department of Inland Fisheries on a multi-year study of the bear population in Acadia National Park, The Bangor Daily News reports via Bar Harbor Story. Read More
COA students spin and knit for cancer support in global wool challenge
The College of the Atlantic Spinsters make history as the first collegiate team to compete in the international Back to Back Wool Challenge. Read MoreReady to build your own path?
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