EcoQuest Education Foundation

Established in 1999, EcoQuest Education Foundation is a non-profit organization based in Aotearoa New Zealand. It offers immersive, field-based study programs focusing on ecology, restoration, environmental policy, sustainability, and sustainable agriculture. EcoQuest collaborates closely with the University of New Hampshire (UNH) in the United States, providing accredited programs that attract students from around the globe.

 

Why Choose EcoQuest Education Foundation?

  • Hands-On Learning: Engage in real-world ecological research and sustainability projects across diverse New Zealand ecosystems.

  • Global Accreditation: Programs are accredited by UNH, ensuring academic rigor and credit transferability to home institutions.

  • Cultural Immersion: Experience New Zealand's unique biodiversity and indigenous M?ori culture, enriching your global perspective.

  • Research Opportunities: Participate in directed research projects that address pressing environmental challenges.

  • Community Engagement: Live and learn within a vibrant, sustainable community, fostering collaboration and personal growth.

 

Campus Locations

EcoQuest operates from two primary locations in New Zealand:

  • Whakat wai: Situated near the Hauraki Gulf, this site serves as the base for the Ecology in Action semester program.

  • Golden Bay: Located at the northern tip of the South Island, this area hosts the Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems Aotearoa (SAFSA) program.

 

Types of Courses (Study Levels)

EcoQuest offers two main programs:

  1. Ecology in Action Semester Program: A 15-week course comprising four interdisciplinary courses, including ecology, restoration, resource management, and sustainability.

  2. Ecology in Action Summer Program: A 5-week, 8-credit course focusing on applied field studies in various New Zealand ecosystems.

  3. Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems Aotearoa (SAFSA): A semester program emphasizing agroecology, sustainable agriculture practices, and food systems.

 

Mode of Learning

All EcoQuest programs are delivered through onsite, immersive field-based learning, combining classroom instruction with hands-on fieldwork in diverse ecological settings. This approach ensures students gain practical experience and a deep understanding of environmental issues.

 

Highlights

  • Accredited Programs: All courses are accredited by the University of New Hampshire, ensuring academic quality and credit transferability.

  • Diverse Ecosystems: Study across various New Zealand ecosystems, from coastal regions to alpine environments.

  • Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in the rich M?ori culture and indigenous perspectives on sustainability.

  • Research Opportunities: Engage in directed research projects addressing real-world environmental challenges.

  • Community Living: Live in sustainable communities, fostering collaboration and personal growth.

Scholarship

1. Education New Zealand (ENZ) Travel Award

  • Value: NZD $2,000

  • Eligibility:

    • Open to international students participating in EcoQuest's programs.

    • Applicants must be enrolled in a recognized tertiary institution.

    • Demonstrated financial need and academic merit.

    • Commitment to promoting New Zealand as a study destination upon return to home country.

  • Application Process:

    • Submit a completed application form to Education New Zealand.

    • Provide supporting documents, including academic transcripts, proof of enrollment, and a personal statement.

    • Applications are typically open in August each year.

  • Note: This award is competitive, and only a limited number are available each year.

 

2. University of New Hampshire (UNH) Financial Aid

  • Value: Varies based on individual circumstances.

  • Eligibility:

    • Students enrolled in EcoQuest programs are eligible to apply for UNH financial aid.

    • Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents.

    • Demonstrated financial need.

  • Application Process:

    • Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

    • Submit the required documentation to UNH's financial aid office.

    • Adhere to application deadlines set by UNH.

  • Note: Most students from North American colleges and universities can transfer their existing financial aid arrangements to the program.

 

3. External Scholarships

  • Value: Varies.

  • Eligibility:

    • Open to international students from various countries.

    • Applicants must meet the specific criteria set by the scholarship provider.

  • Application Process:

    • Research and identify scholarships offered by government agencies, private organizations, and educational institutions in your home country.

    • Follow the application procedures outlined by each scholarship provider.

    • Ensure all required documents are submitted by the specified deadlines.

  • Note: Scholarships may cover partial or full tuition fees, travel expenses, and living costs.

 

Important Notes

  • Limited Availability: Scholarships are limited in number and are awarded based on merit and availability.

  • Eligibility Criteria: Each scholarship has specific eligibility requirements.

  • Application Deadlines: Ensure to check the application deadlines for each scholarship to ensure timely submission.

  • Additional Costs: Any additional costs after the awarded scholarship amount must be funded through other means.

Programs

Whakatiwai, New Zealand