A destination education
Durango, Colorado

Where the desert meets the Rocky Mountains

At Fort Lewis College, students discover more than just academics; they find a gateway to adventure, culture, and a supportive community. With programs deeply connected to the environment and cultural heritage of the Four Corners, FLC is where new experiences shape their journey and lasting memories are made.

Max Krauss

"I chose Durango due to its incredible accessibility to nature. The mountains always helped recharge my spirit during the stressful life of an [Engineering] undergrad. I also picked up disc golf on campus, mountain biking in town, and cliff jumping at Lake Navajo! The skiing was an awesome bonus too!"

Max Krauss
Computer Engineering, '24

Evan Tyler

"It was like taking a gap year every weekend. We were out in the middle of nowhere, having incredible adventures, all while I was still pursuing my degree. There are things you will learn that you never expect you’ll learn. If you just make it happen, everything will work out at the end."

Evan Tyler
Engineering, '22

Nico Christopher

"I started college not knowing what to major in. I was figuring out who I was and who I wanted to be, and FLC helped with that. Through taking different classes and electives, I figured out I didn’t want to be a biology major and fell in love with the idea of teaching."

Nico Christopher
Educational Studies, '20
Ed.M. Special Education, '24

Your Fort Lewis College adventure starts here

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60
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majors

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& programs

40+
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adventures

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Outdoor Pursuits

5
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student-led clubs

9
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Experience global
learning

A student examining a tree in the Dolores River

Education beyond the classroom

Students immerse themselves in academic experiences that connect rigorous research with the rich cultural and natural environment of the Four Corners region. Whether analyzing microbiomes in local waters, leading the charge in quantum computing education, or engaging in Indigenous language revival, FLC offers dynamic opportunities where learning extends beyond the classroom into the landscapes and communities that define the area. With close faculty mentorship, students dive into hands-on undergraduate research, from dark matter exploration to environmental sustainability, preparing for impactful careers and graduate studies.

Learn outside

Conduct fieldwork in rivers and mountains across the region, like this biology student studying flora along the Dolores River.

Where adventure meets purpose

Adventure at Fort Lewis College isn’t just an activity—it’s a way of life. From backcountry avalanche courses to eco-tours and long-distance hikes for charity, students engage deeply with the stunning landscapes surrounding Durango. Whether bringing clean water to remote villages through the Village Aid Project or studying snow dynamics, FLC students blend outdoor adventure with meaningful, impactful work. This spirit of exploration and service exemplifies the unique opportunities that define an FLC education.

Work hard, play hard

Discover your passion in the San Juan Mountains. A student drops a cliff at Purgatory Resort, just 35 minutes from Fort Lewis College.

A skier doing a trick off of a snow-covered cliff, surrounded by pines

Matt Young

Biology, Environmental & Organismal Biology Concentration, Summa Cum Laude GIS Certificate, '24

"Having the opportunity to become a published researcher is a huge step forward to apply to grad school or apply for [research] positions.”

Matt Young
Biology, '24

Jamie Ayze

Indigenous Community Gardening

"My senior research is about indigenous community gardening and goes into traditional ecological knowledge. Being here inspired me to return home and share what I’ve learned."

Jaime Ayze
Environmental Studies, '24

A destination education Durango, Colorado