schooltoursofamerica

 

COMPASS COURSE

Follow Your Curiosity

 

School Tours of America Student Credit Program

You already know your trip will be unforgettable — now make it unforgettable AND valuable by earning college credit through our partnership with Adams State University.

Develop Your Research Skills

Enhance College Applications

Get a Head Start on College Credits

Discover What Inspires You

 

 

PARTNERING WITH EXCELLENCE:

Our Collaboration with Adams State University

For more than ten years, School Tours of America and Adams State University have worked hand in hand to help educators grow through travel. Now, that same powerful partnership is opening doors for students! We’re thrilled to offer student travelers in grades 9-12 the opportunity to earn college credit while exploring the nation’s most historic and inspiring destinations.

LEARN MORE ABOUT ADAMS STATE UNIVERSITY

 

 

OUR FEATURED PROGRAM

Inquiry-Based Learning with a Video Project (1 SCH Credit)

Students will explore a topic that sparks their curiosity and develop an essential question inspired by their travel experience. They will conduct research, reflect on their findings, and design a final video project that effectively communicates their learning and perspective.

COURSE SYLLABUS

 

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Who is eligible for the STA Compass Course?

  • Students in grades 9-12 traveling with School Tours of America are eligible to participate in the STA Compass Course in partnership with Adams State University.

What is the purpose of the STA Compass Course?

  • This course allows students to reflect deeply on their travel experiences, dive into topics that interest them, and design a personalized project, all while meeting high school academic standards and the expectations of an accredited university.

  • Throughout the program, students will explore, analyze, and create as they connect classroom concepts with real-world travel. The experience promotes meaningful learning, critical thinking, and personal growth.

  • Upon successful completion, students will earn an official transcript from ASU and a certificate of completion from STA. These credentials validate their academic achievement in the STA Compass Course and can strengthen college applications, scholarship opportunities, and résumés.

How does the STA Compass Course work?

  • The STA Compass Course is an open-enrollment, self-paced program designed for students in grades 9 through 12.

  • After registering, students will receive detailed instructions on how to proceed.

  • Students will complete pre- and post-tour activities, as well as participate in discussions with the Instructor of Record.

  • The program must be completed 60 days after the STA travel event to earn the certificate. The estimated completion time is 15 hours, excluding travel time on the tour. The program is flexible, easy to manage, and educational.

What does the student receive for completing the course?

  • Upon successful completion, students will earn an official transcript from ASU and a certificate of completion from STA.

  • These credentials validate their academic achievement in the Compass Course and can strengthen college applications, scholarship opportunities, and resumés.

  • The student will also gain valuable experience successfully completing an online program equivalent to a university online course.
Where can I learn more about Adams State University?
  • Adams State University is accredited by the nation’s most credible and respected educational governing body — the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), a Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, located at 30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 2400, Chicago, Illinois 60602-2504.
Additional Questions?

Contact:

Jamie Schoenbauer
Educational Specialist
education@schooltoursofamerica.com

 

 

MEET YOUR EDUCATIONAL SPECIALIST

With over two decades of experience in K-12 education, Jamie Schoenbauer brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role as Educational Specialist at School Tours of America. A proud graduate of Heidelberg College and the University of St Thomas, Jamie holds a Master of Arts degree in Educational Studies with a K-12 Reading Endorsement and a STEM certification. Having led numerous student and adult trips to Washington, DC, Jamie is passionate about the transformative power of travel experiences. Her dedication to fostering meaningful learning opportunities for students makes her an invaluable asset to our team.

 

 

QUESTIONS?

EMAIL:
education@schooltoursofamerica.com

COST OF PROGRAMS:
$55

HOW TO GET STARTED:
Complete this form and someone will be in touch to schedule a parent/student conference call.

Trip ID# and Participant ID can be found in your registration materials or the online portal.

 
Preferred Contact Method