graduate programs in outdoor education

The MOAEL is designed to meet the needs of outdoor adventure leaders and educators in the regional, national, and international communities. This program targets outdoor educators and adventure leaders seeking a high-level graduate program with a strong foundation in theory and experiential learning, and equips students with the interdisciplinary skills required to grasp and develop new concepts, technologies, methods and trends in the outdoor adventure leadership field. The MOAEL will provide outdoor adventure leaders with the experience, knowledge and tools needed to advance into leadership roles and shape the future of this dynamic field. Above all, students will grasp and embody the concept of the “explorer” mindset: being determined, resilient and inquisitive to meet the demands of a volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous world.

By completing the program, students will gain leadership skills associated with the outdoor and international environment and learn to transfer and redirect their abilities towards any endeavor. In short, MOAEL students will gain the skills to lead any group, in any environment, towards any goal. To achieve this objective, students will develop their own regional, national, and international expeditions to gain key skill-sets that are critical for experiential leaders and modern day explorers. Our students will become leaders, activists and explorers; developing their own unique and innovative leadership styles to shape the future of the outdoor adventure industry and to tackle the unstable, inexact, multifaceted, and unclear obstacles and challenges associated with any transformational expedition.

ADMISSION CRITERIA

• Bachelor degree from an accredited institution; may substitute professional/personal experience or supplemental coursework if degree is not in a field of study that provides sufficient preparation and skills for successful completion of the program;
• Official copy of academic transcripts and minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 (4.0 scale) on last 90 credits;
• Three letters of recommendation that specifically evaluate academic and/or professional skills and abilities to pursue graduate studies in the adventure programing discipline;
• Personal statement (1000 words maximum) describing the nature of the student’s interest in OAEL, their teaching and guiding philosophy, academic and work objectives, and how the Master in OAEL will help the student fulfill those interests and objectives. This writing piece should include references in APA style and will serve as a writing sample;
• Submission of copies of all professional, state, national, and international certifications and certificates, such as American Mountain Guide Association (AMGA), American Canoe Association (ACA), Professional Climbing Instructor Association (PCIA), Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), Rescue 3 International, American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE), and/or Leave No Trace Master Educator (LNT);
• Demonstrated adventure sports skills, leadership experience, and potential for success through submission of a statement of purpose, a resume, and a logbook of appropriate experience.

Year 1 - Fall

(11-13 credits)

• OAL 511 - Self-Assessment for Adventure Practitioners 1 credit
• OAL 512 - Adventure Leadership and Philosophy 4 credits
• OAL 525 - Research Methods in Adventure Programming 4 credits
• 2-4 credits of electives (see list below)

Year 1 - Winter

• OAL 503 - Project/Thesis for OAEL 1 to 6 credits (1 credit required)
• OAL 515 - Expedition Planning 4 credits
• OAL 526 - Outdoor Adventure Risk Management 4 credits

Year 1 - Spring

(10 credits)

• OAL 509 - Guiding Field Practicum 9 credits

(9 credits)

• OAL 545 - International Expedition Experience 9 credits

Year 2 - Fall

(10-12 credits)

• OAL 503 - Project/Thesis for OAEL 1 to 6 credits (4 credits required)
• OAL 575 - Critical Reflection 4 credits

ELECTIVE COURSES

Oal courses.

• OAL 505 - Reading and Conference 1 to 8 credits
• OAL 507 - Seminar 1 to 8 credits
• OAL 510 - Special Topics 1 to 8 credits
• OAL 530 - Outdoor Survival 3 credits
• OAL 533 - Outdoor Adventure Literature 3 credits
• OAL 535 - Adventure Writing and Photography 3 credits
• OAL 552 - Minimal Impact Adventuring 3 credits
• OAL 565 - Adventure Skills Facilitation 1-8 credits
• OAL 570 - Environmental Physiology 3 credits
• OAL 576 - Experiential Leadership Development 3 credits
• OAL 580 - Swiftwater Rescue Technician Level I 2 credits
• OAL 581 - Technical Rope Rescue 2 credits
• OAL 582 - Swiftwater Rescue Technician Advanced 2 credits
• OAL 583 - Avalanche I 1 credit
• OAL 595 - Outdoor Pursuits Field Experience 6 credits

Elective Non-Major Courses

• BA 580 - Introduction to Nonprofit Organizations 4 credits
• BA 583 - Sustainability Leadership 4 credits
• BA 592 - Working with Emotional Intelligence 4 credits
• COMM 507 - Seminar 1 to 4 credits.
• COMM 555 - Conflict Management 4 credits
• COMM 556 - Negotiation 4 credits
• COMM 560 - Topics in Communication 4 credits
• COUN 502 - Counseling Skills and Process 4 credits
• COUN 571 - Counseling Theory 4 credits
• COUN 574 - Group Counseling 4 credits
• COUN 575 - Advanced Crisis Intervention Strategies 4 credits
• EE 524 - Concepts in Environmental Education 3 credits
• EE 526 - Trends in Environmental Education 2 credits
• EE 528 - Environmental Issues 3 credits
• ES 523 - Sustainability and Natural Resources 4 credits
• ES 537 - Conservation in the United States 4 credits
• ES 539 - Land Use Planning 4 credits
• ES 542 - Valuation of Ecosystem Goods and Services 4 credits
• ES 582 - Climatology 4 credits
• LEAD 588 - Cultural and Organizational Leadership 3 credits
• PSY 535 - Environmental Psychology 4 credits
• PSY 537 - Creative Thinking 4 credits
• PSY 538 - Group Dynamics 4 credits
• PSY 539 - Group Facilitation and Assessment 4 credits
• PSY 540 - Organization Development 4 credits
• PSY 543 - Process of Behavior Change 4 credits
• PSY 548 - Mediation and Conflict Management 4 credits
• SOAN 552 - Global Environmental Movements 4 credits

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Outdoor & Environmental Education Master of Science

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Combine your passions for the natural world and for teaching in APU’s master’s degree program in Outdoor and Environmental Education.

Farm and Forest will be your classroom on APU’s Kellogg Campus in Palmer, Alaska, where you will hone your teaching skills at the Kellogg Field School outdoor education lab school.

Join a small cohort of peers while pursuing your interest in outdoor, environmental, adventure and wilderness education in a seamless, place-based program in a place of unparalleled beauty.

Every graduate student spends a portion of their first semester in the MOSEE program teaching at Kellogg Field School

A one credit practicum is integrated with the Curriculum Design course to provide students the opportunity to tie theory to application immediately. This practicum is typically reimbursed as a teaching assistantship to help cover the investment made by the student. It also helps our new graduate students meet our local community of parents and kids and immerse themselves in the kind of active learning they came here to experience. Visit kelloggfieldschool.org for more information.

• Environmental Educator, Alaska Department of Fish & Game
• Field Instructor, Alaska Avalanche School
• Certified Elementary Teacher, Houston Elementary School
• Field Instructor, National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS)
• Certified Elementary Teacher, Northern Pacific Academy
• Faculty and Environmental Educator, University of Alaska Fairbanks
• Recreational Therapist, Northstar Behavioral Health
• Kids Don’t Float Program Coordinator, Alaska DNR – Office of Boating Safety
• Interpretive Ranger, NPS
• Public Safety Ranger, Alaska State Parks
• Site Coordinator, Trailside Discovery Camps
• Professional Development Manager, Camp Fire Alaska

Curriculum Design for Outdoor Educators

Power of place in education, teaching methods for experiential education, research methods, learning theory in outdoor education, outdoor & environmental literacy, elective expeditions and skills: sea kayaking, mountaineering, leadership, thesis seminar i, thesis seminar ii, thesis research/professional project.

Student Thesis Titles

You love the outdoors. You love teaching. You will love this.

Students pursuing a master’s degree in Environmental and Outdoor Education (MSOEE) have the option to pursue a K-8 Teaching Certificate with APU’s Certificate Only Option Program (CO-OP). Students will dual-enroll in the Master of Science in Outdoor and Environmental Education (MSOEE) and the CO-OP, enabling them to obtain both the MSOEE and teacher certification in Alaska that will give you thorough preparation for teaching in public and charter schools with an emphasis in environmental and outdoor education. Your first year of the program will be spent taking classes primarily at APU’s 900 acre Kellogg Campus in Palmer, Alaska. The second year is spent at APU’s Anchorage campus preparing for and completing your student teaching.

This degree option gives you the flexibility to choose from a variety of careers, including positions in public, private or charter schools, interpretive and education specialist jobs in land management agencies and positions in non-governmental organizations and businesses such as conservation organizations and camps.

When other responsibilities aren’t pressing, he can usually be found backpacking, backcountry skiing, biking or reading  – and always ready to share a meal with a friend, old or new. -Eli Conlee – Current MSOEE Student

Community & Place-Based Education

Bachelor of Arts

Environmental Public Health

Bachelor of Science

Marine & Environmental Sciences

Outdoor studies.

Moving and craving adventure? Get paid to do what you love. In Outdoor Studies, we prepare students for meaningful lives and careers working with people in the outdoors through expedition and active learning. Students earn either a bachelors in Outdoor Studies or a master of science in Outdoor and Environmental Education.

Our classes utilize Alaska’s millions of acres of wildlands and diverse human resources to provide unmatched opportunities to experience and learn the skills and knowledge needed to be an outdoor professional. You will be prepared for positions in parks and recreation, commercial recreation, outdoor and environmental education, wilderness therapy, and snow science.

Outdoor Studies Institutes

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From outdoor leadership to camp management to environmental awareness, our program covers every dimension of outdoor education. Numerous opportunities for practical experience complement our curriculum. 

Exceptional Faculty

Professors Amy DiRenzo, Charles Yaple and Anderson Young teach many courses in this concentration. They have held leadership positions with the North American Association for Experiential Education, the Coalition for Education in the Outdoors and the Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education. They also are published authors and boast a wealth of experience with programs such as Outward Bound, the Wilderness Education Association and Leave No Trace.

Outdoor Pursuits

Housed in the Student Life Center, this hub of activity strives to bring students into the outdoors. The office is open seven days a week, overseeing various trips, workshops, outdoor gear rental, the Cortland Bike Project and the climbing/bouldering wall. Monthly trips take students backpacking, kayaking, camping and even skydiving.

Program Highlights

Located in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, the William H. Parks Family Center for Environmental and Outdoor Education at Raquette Lake stretches more than 400 acres and is the only National Historic Landmark in the SUNY system. This educational site applies to many different disciplines and provides a natural environment for hands-on learning.

Career Potential

Our graduates direct university outdoor pursuits programs, lead trips for the National Outdoor Leadership School, guide clients on Adirondack whitewater trips and teach outdoor education in schools. They serve in management positions with state and federal agencies such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, New York State Parks and the U.S. Forest Service. They also teach in local parks and nature centers or direct summer camps and retreat centers.

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Chair: Susan Wilson Main Office:  Professional Studies Building, Room 2213-A  Phone:  607-753-4941  Fax:  607-753-5982  Email:   [email protected]  

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Outdoor Recreation Economy

Master of Science

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How to Apply

Blaze your professional trail.

The Outdoor Recreation Economy program at CU Boulder provides learners with a variety of opportunities to expand their knowledge and advance their careers in the outdoor recreation industry. This program’s flexible options allow you to engage in a way that fits both your career goals and your budget. Become an innovative leader, foster sustainable business operations, govern and promote access to public lands or leverage outdoor amenities to grow local, sustainable economies.

This program explores four central areas of the outdoor recreation business and how they intersect:

• Outdoor recreation business and leadership: The manufacturers, retailers, tour operators and guides who facilitate the public’s enjoyment of open spaces and who can motivate consumer spending toward sustainability and public lands stewardship.
• Public lands policy: The policies and regulations that govern access and sustainable use and that are crucial to the appropriate use, conservation and enjoyment of public lands.
• Resilient communities: The communities that leverage natural resources to enhance or create new recreation economies. They face a variety of challenges, including competition and stressed infrastructure, but also the opportunity to diversify, showcase their culture and grow.
• Inclusivity: The best practices for developing a more welcoming and inclusive outdoor recreation economy and expanding access to the outdoors to everyone.

 I ultimately knew that I’d be working full-time while I was earning my master’s degree, and I loved that the classes were so flexible to fit around my job and spending my weekends outdoors. But at the same time, I wanted to have fully involved and collaborative online classes that were focused on the outdoor industry, which is exactly what the program has offered me. – Cassie Elrod | Outdoor Recreation Economy Program Student

Apply by December 9 for Spring 2025 start

Career-relevant coursework for professional advancement

Flexible courses to fit your schedule

2 to 3 years to complete

• Outdoor Recreation Economy, MS
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Carly McNiece

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Program Offerings Related to this Degree

The Outdoor Recreation Economy program is designed to provide you with the ultimate flexibility in how you gain the education you need. If you'd like to test the waters of the program before applying, you can enroll in one or more graduate certificates or take individual courses for credit as a non-degree student.

Graduate Certificates

If you are not ready to commit to a master’s program or just need background and expertise in a particular topic, you might like to complete one or more of the graduate certificates .

Choose from the following five certificate options:

• Introduction to the Outdoor Recreation Economy
• Public Lands and Natural Resources Policy
• Building Resilient Communities through Outdoor Recreation
• Leading a Sustainable Business in the Outdoor Recreation Economy
• Inclusivity and Belonging in the Outdoor Recreation Economy

Individual Courses

You may take individual credit courses within the Outdoor Recreation Economy Program as a non-degree student, which means you need not be enrolled in a master’s or certificate program.

This option may be a great fit for you if you:

• want to gain knowledge in a specific topic;
• wish to customize your education to fit your particular interests and needs;
• want to sample the program before committing to the degree or a certificate; or
• missed the application deadline for either the master’s or certificate program, but want to start classes as soon as possible.

The Benefits of CU Boulder

The Outdoor Recreation Economy program at CU Boulder is the only completely online graduate program of its kind in the nation. We offer a comprehensive, industry-relevant education taught by recognized leaders in the outdoor and business fields.

The program’s design provides you with the greatest possible flexibility so you can tailor your coursework and schedule to fit your needs, and participate in the program no matter where you are located. It also leverages the university’s location in Colorado—and its deep connection with the outdoor recreation economy—to provide students with real-world problems to work on and learn from.

Required fields are indicated by an asterisk (*).

Best Outdoor Education colleges in the U.S. 2024

Best outdoor education colleges in the u.s. for 2024.

SUNY Cortland offers 1 Outdoor Education degree programs. It's a medium sized, public, four-year university in a faraway town. In 2022, 7 Outdoor Education students graduated with students earning 7 Bachelor's degrees.

Minnesota State University-Mankato offers 1 Outdoor Education degree programs. It's a large, public, four-year university in a small city. In 2022, 7 Outdoor Education students graduated with students earning 7 Master's degrees.

Northern Arizona University offers 1 Outdoor Education degree programs. It's a very large, public, four-year university in a small city.

Western Washington University offers 1 Outdoor Education degree programs. It's a large, public, four-year university in a small city. In 2022, 1 Outdoor Education students graduated with students earning 1 Certificate.

Winona State University offers 1 Outdoor Education degree programs. It's a medium sized, public, four-year university in a faraway town.

Western Carolina University offers 2 Outdoor Education degree programs. It's a large, public, four-year university in a faraway town. In 2022, 18 Outdoor Education students graduated with students earning 18 Master's degrees.

Central Michigan University offers 1 Outdoor Education degree programs. It's a large, public, four-year university in a faraway town. In 2022, 19 Outdoor Education students graduated with students earning 19 Bachelor's degrees.

Plymouth State University offers 1 Outdoor Education degree programs. It's a small, public, four-year university in a remote town. In 2022, 8 Outdoor Education students graduated with students earning 8 Master's degrees.

Fort Lewis College offers 1 Outdoor Education degree programs. It's a small, public, four-year university in a faraway town. In 2022, 21 Outdoor Education students graduated with students earning 21 Bachelor's degrees.

Salisbury University offers 1 Outdoor Education degree programs. It's a medium sized, public, four-year university in a small suburb. In 2022, 5 Outdoor Education students graduated with students earning 5 Bachelor's degrees.

Find local colleges with Outdoor Education majors in the U.S.

List of all outdoor education colleges in the u.s..

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Outdoor Leadership

BA MAJOR & MINOR

What You’ll Study

Outdoor Leadership is more than technical skills training. It’s a liberal arts discipline that combines those outdoor skills (like backpacking, canoeing, kayaking, and rock climbing) with theory and practice in interpersonal communication, behavioral science, counseling, and being a leader.

You’ll take courses in topics like:

• Moral and ethical responsibilities of leadership
• Shaping public attitudes toward the environment
• Education and facilitation techniques
• Examining and adapting to various group dynamics
• Conflict resolution
• Backcountry medical protocols
• Technical Skills such as paddling and rock climbing
• Challenge course facilitation and management
• History and philosophy behind adventure education

You’ll also complete an internship with an organization of your choice.

What Can You Do with a Degree in Outdoor Leadership?

Our goal is to prepare leaders who can analyze, plan, implement, administer, and supervise outdoor adventure education programs of all kinds.

Some of our graduates go into program leadership and administration at outdoor centers, working for park services, colleges and universities, or non-profits. Others become instructors for historically underserved populations and people with disabilities. And some go into the adventure travel and tourism industry, working as guides and program directors for eco-tours, travel companies, resorts, and hotels.

No matter what path you choose to follow, the interdisciplinary curriculum and hands-on experience from our work and service programs will prepare you for it.

Take your internship outdoors!

Whether you’re a river guide in Denali or a wilderness instructor at a local summer camp, your internship will set you up with mind-opening experiences you can’t get in a class.

We learn how to effectively use group activities and games to encourage teamwork and trust. This concept is genius. People like to have fun, and people generally do not equate learning with fun. As a matter of fact, we are learning.

Explore Classes in This Program

Backcountry skills and techniques.

Practice the skills you’ll need to become a great backcountry instructor. You’ll hone outdoor skills, practice on special equipment, learn safety and risk management techniques, and focus on teaching them to groups.

Natural Environments and Health

Why do we often feel better when we are outside, near plants, or we have a window to look outside? We’ll explore current research regarding human-natural environment interactions, with a focus on the how the natural world impacts collective health and well-being.

Leadership for Adventure Education

In this course, you will examine the theories, practices, and problems of leadership in outdoor adventure programming. You’ll also complete direct, first-hand experiences where you will be expected to plan and be in a leadership position in the classroom.

It is through Warren Wilson students that my impact in this world is both magnified and transformed. I feel very fortunate to be a part of such an idealistic, compassionate, and hard-working community.

The best part of the job is watching students graduate with a strong portfolio of experiences and find meaningful work connecting people to places.

This is a community where students, faculty and staff can explore a wide range of interests. It's exciting to work with students on issues where they are passionate and help them fuse these interests with education, community engagement and work experience.

Out of all of the schools and places I have had the honor to work, I have never experienced a sense of community like Warren Wilson. Not only is the campus beautiful, the community support and atmosphere here is unparalleled! I am happy to say that I have found my home!

I am proud to be a part of a community driven by compassion and curiosity here at Warren Wilson. With small class sizes, I can offer individualized attention and build strong relationships with my students, helping them prepare for meaningful careers and adventures in the outdoors.

I enjoy working with students to create and run our programs, and seeing how they develop their confidence, leadership abilities and technical outdoor skills. Plus, we get to introduce our campus community to our beautiful mountains, rivers and lakes!

Warren Wilson students are adventurous, driven, and kind. It is a privilege to teach such inspiring people in such a beautiful place.

I went to school at Warren Wilson and got to explore not only my academic interests, but my outdoor interests as well. I learned to paddle here, among other things, and I love being back giving folks the chance to explore and experience the outdoors in the setting I fell in love with these activities.

I love working at Wilson because of the opportunities it provides students to explore, grow and understand themselves better.

Hands-on, All-in

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Graduate Program in Environmental Education & Equity

Islandwood graduate program, preparing environmental educators to ignite change in our schools, communities + planet.

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The IslandWood Graduate Program in Education for Environment and Community, in partnership with the University of Washington, is a 10-month immersive residency in justice-oriented environmental education; experiential, student-centered learning; and culturally-responsive teaching and curriculum development.

Offered in partnership with the University of Washington College of Education, our graduate residency program runs from late-August to mid-June and is based on our 250-acre campus on Bainbridge Island, WA, a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Seattle. The program includes graduate course work in environmental education through a justice-oriented lens, biweekly outdoor teaching of IslandWood’s School Overnight Program , and 1:1 mentoring.

Our program is based on the following philosophical foundation:

• Justice-oriented education involves examining our personal relationships to systems of oppression, developing asset-based understandings of the youth we work with, and leveraging youths’ cultural and linguistic resources to design inclusive teaching and learning environments.
• Knowledge of ecology and natural habitats is essential to creating healthier relationships between human communities and the natural world.
• Education is most successful when teachers honor the cultural, ethnic, socioeconomic, and religious diversity in their classroom.
• Meaningful education grows out of thoughtfully guided experiences and reflection.
• In learning communities, everyone can contribute as both teacher and student.
• An integrated, experiential curriculum combining science, technology, and the arts allows individuals with different learning styles and aptitudes to succeed.
• Education should help students balance their individuality with their responsibilities as members of human and natural communities.
• Environmental and experiential education is most effective when it relates to real-life experiences in the student’s home community.
• A sustainable future depends upon strengthening our respect for one another and the natural world.

Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

Our faculty and staff are strongly committed to advancing justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) in our program, organization, and field. Within our program’s residential environmental education context, we prepare educators to approach their work with an equity lens and to create culturally sustaining learning experiences for all students. We also strive to contribute to a more diverse educator workforce that mirrors the demographics of our society, and welcome students from a variety of life experiences and backgrounds who share a commitment to justice-oriented education.

In this work, we recognize both the legacy of racism and injustice within the environmental education field, as well as our privileged position as part of a historically white-led organization. We are striving to continuously learn, grow, and be accountable to ourselves, our students, and the communities we serve.

Learn more about how we’re advancing JEDI in the graduate program here  →

And read about IslandWood’s commitment to equity, including our organization’s priorities and our progress on those priorities, here  →

Our Approach to Environmental Education

We approach environmental education through a multidisciplinary, place-based, and culturally responsive lens. Through both the teaching practicum and the courses we offer, the Graduate Program prepares educators to create environmental learning experiences that honor students’ full selves and recognize the validity and importance of multiple knowledge sources and systems.

In classes and through coursework, mentorship, and applied learning sessions, graduate students explore various pedagogical approaches, deepen their understanding of their own positionality, and gain strategies for equity-based education. The teaching practicum allows students to put theory into practice and evolve their skills as educators within a STEAM-focused residential environmental learning environment.

Learn more about IslandWood’s approach to culturally responsive environmental education  here  →

We also recommend checking out the following STEM Teaching Tools from the University of Washington Institute for Science + Math Education for additional insight into our approach to environmental education:

• How Can Environmental Educators Practice Intersectional Environmentalism (co-written by Director of Graduate Program, Dr. Déana Scipio and former Urban School Program Educator, Laura Brown!)
• Focusing Science and Engineering Learning on Justice-Centered Phenomena Across PK-12
• Teaching STEM In Ways That Respect and Build Upon Indigenous Peoples’ Rights
• How Can We Promote Equity in Science Education?

Our Partnership with the University of Washington College of Education

Our program is offered in partnership with top-ranked University of Washington College of Education, whose mission is to transform inequitable systems of education to create just, sustainable, and culturally-thriving democracies. The IslandWood Graduate Certificate completes the first year of a UW Master’s in Education and fulfills the prerequisites for application to the Master’s in Teaching in Elementary Education.

Master’s in Education

Offered through the Curriculum and Instruction program at the UW College of Education, students may choose to complete their M.Ed. with an emphasis in Teaching and Curriculum, or in Science Education . Most students finish their degrees with two additional quarters (six months) after their IslandWood year.

UW’s Curriculum and Instruction program focuses on the nature and interaction of curriculum, teaching, and learning. With a strong commitment to equity, democracy, and justice in education and society, the program employs diverse approaches to teaching and learning.

Master’s in Teaching

Once at IslandWood, students can apply to the UW College of Education’s Teacher Education Program (TEP) to earn their Master’s degree and teacher certification in Elementary or Secondary Education. While our program fulfills prerequisites and can provide experiences that enhance your application to this highly competitive program, completing the IslandWood graduate program does not guarantee acceptance.

The UW’s TEP program has a strong social justice component and provides students with significant practical teaching experience in the Washington state public school system. The Elementary Education program begins the summer after the IslandWood year and IslandWood coursework meets all prerequisites for the program. The Secondary Education program begins the spring after the IslandWood year and prerequisites are determined on an individual basis.

While there are other ways to complete your MiT or earn a teacher certification in less time directly through the UW, IslandWood’s program can provide experience and skills that will help make you a competitive candidate in the MiT admission process.

“Perhaps the most important lesson I learned at IslandWood was that I didn’t need to have a background of sleeping in tents, participating in outdoor recreational sports, or hiking in national parks to be an environmental educator. I just needed to know that I could play a role in connecting people to the environments and communities around them.”

– Ilya Schmulensen, IslandWood Graduate Program Alum

Program Details

Discover the change you can make as an educator with graduate-level coursework in justice-oriented environmental education (including equity and anti-bias work), biweekly teaching experiences, and 1:1 mentoring.

Structure and Design →

Our graduate-level coursework includes topics related to:

• Educational  philosophy,  theory ,  and practice  
• Culturally responsive and sustaining pedagogies  
• Curriculum Development  
• Child Growth & Development  
• Science Teaching Method ologies  
• Inquiry -based   a pproach es  
• Qualitative Research Methods  
• Natural History and Ecology  
• Curriculum and Instruction Methods
• Advanced Instructional Strategies  
• Garden and Arts Integration  

Faculty and Staff →

Housing and Location →

Educational Pathways →

Career Pathways →

Frequently Asked Questions →

Applications for the 2024-2025 cohort are open! 

How to Apply

All students seeking admission to our program must apply and be accepted to  both  IslandWood AND to the University of Washington’s Master’s in Education Program. Applications to IslandWood and the University of Washington’s M.Ed. degree can be submitted concurrently. Letters of reference and transcripts must be submitted for both applications, which are processed through separate systems. Therefore, requesting these items at the same time may be more convenient for your recommenders.

Step 1.  Apply to IslandWood

Application decisions cannot be made until all application materials have been received. Students will be notified of their admission status after a review period following each application deadline.

Step 2: Apply to  University of Washington’s (UW) Master’s in Education Program  

When completing the UW online application:

• Select either the “M.Ed.-Curriculum and Instruction-Science Education (IslandWood)”- OR -“M.Ed.-Curriculum and Instruction-Teaching & Curriculum (IslandWood).” Applicants interested in the UW Master’s in Teaching (MiT) degree must start out as an M.Ed. student.
• Apply as a  matriculated  graduate student. Matriculation status means you intend to eventually earn a Master’s degree, can have up to 31 credits transferred towards the UW M.Ed. degree, and are eligible for federal student loans.

Requirements

IslandWood’s Admissions Requirements: 

• An undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university (minimum 3.0 grade-point average preferred).
• Demonstrated interest or experience in culturally responsive teaching , environmental and social justice issues, experiential education, and working with youth.
• Please note that neither IslandWood or the University of Washington College of Education will require the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) for the 2023 admission cycle. All applicants have the option to self-report GRE scores within the application, if desired.

Deadlines and Incentives

Deadlines for admission to the Fall 2025 quarter are as follows:

Nondiscrimination Policy

IslandWood provides equal opportunities to all applicants for admission without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

We are committed to making graduate-level education accessible, and offer scholarships, service awards, and tuition discounts to applicants.

Apply for IslandWood Financial Aid

Graduate Program Stipend

IslandWood offers a graduate program stipend of $500 a month during the 10-month program ($5,000 per calendar year) to all enrolled students to help cover basic living expenses. The stipend can be spent by graduate students in any way they choose and is intended to help our students focus as much as possible on their learning and less on how to cover basic living expenses.

Tuition and Fees

* Students are responsible for service and activity fees charged by the University of Washington. For the IslandWood Graduate Program Class of 2021, these fees amounted to approximately $1,314 and are subject to change by the University of Washington.

** applied toward tuition costs and due upon commitment to hold student’s place.

Tuition includes:

• 10 graduate courses throughout the year
• Up to 31 credits toward the partnered M.Ed. program at the University of Washington. (These credits often transfer to other universities and colleges.)
• A year-long teaching practicum with extensive mentoring by education staff and faculty
• Applied learning workshops include topics such as cultural competency, local flora and fauna, art and garden education, and social-emotional learning.
• Low faculty/student ratio with extensive advising and mentoring

Scholarships

IslandWood offers the following scholarship opportunities to help put graduate-level studies within reach of all students and to increase the diversity of the education field:

• The Robert P. Karr Scholarship – Applications open January 1. This scholarship awards $20,000 to five students in the IslandWood Graduate Program each year. The award is open to prospective students of color, first-generation college graduates, and those who demonstrate financial need, prioritized in that order. The application deadline is May 1 to align with our final priority deadline and UW’s May deadline. Learn more here .
• Scholarships for candidates from underrepresented communities in the education field . We encourage qualified candidates to complete and submit the relevant sections of the IslandWood Aid application.
• Scholarships for candidates demonstrating financial need . We encourage qualified candidates to complete and submit the relevant sections of the IslandWood Aid application.

Students may also contact the  University of Washington  for more information on grants and scholarship opportunities for graduate students.

Service Awards

To make graduate-level education more accessible, we offer service awards to students affiliated (members, alumni, interns, staff, etc.) with service corps, military, and partner organizations, as well as teachers and paraprofessionals.

This following list is not comprehensive. To learn about eligibility and rates, or to inquire about organizations not listed here, please contact us at  [email protected] .

• Paraprofessional educators

Service Corps 

• AmeriCorps National
• Serve Washington
• AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC)
• AmeriCorps VISTA
• Peace Corps
• Teach for America
• Student Conservation Association
• Washington Conservation Corps
• Veterans Conservation Corps
• Puget Sound Corps
• Active Duty

Undergraduate Institutions

• Antioch University
• University of Washington

Community Organizations

• College Success Foundation
• Natural Leaders
• YMCA BOLD/GOLD
• Doris Duke Conservation Scholars

Once accepted and enrolled in the UW Master’s in Education degree program as a matriculated student you are eligible for federal financial aid.

Students wishing to receive federal financial aid through the UW are encouraged to complete the  FAFSA  application by  January 15  or as soon as possible. Please contact the  University of Washington’s Office of Student Financial Aid (OSFA)  with specific questions regarding the financial aid process.

Opportunities to forgive, cancel, or discharge your loans are available through several programs, such as the Public Service Loan Forgiveness and Teacher Loan Forgiveness programs. Visit the  Federal Student Aid website  for more info.

Work Opportunities

Paid  on-campus work opportunities are available at IslandWood in various departments for all graduate students, regardless of financial need. Examples of on-campus employment opportunities have included: blogging and photography assistant, research assistant, lab assistant, art studio assistant, gear room assistant, garden assistants, facilities assistants, and event assistants.

Students will be invited to apply for employment during orientation training in September. The hourly wage for 2022-2023 graduate students is $17.45. Because employment is in addition to the responsibilities of being a full-time graduate student, most IslandWood graduate students work an average of 5 hrs/week.

We can also help connect graduate students to  off-campus work opportunities  on Bainbridge Island. These opportunities commonly include childcare, house-sitting, pet-sitting, yard work, and other odd jobs.

Other Resources

The following websites offer searchable databases for scholarships. In addition, these sites include general information on applying for and receiving Financial Aid, completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (the FAFSA is required for individuals seeking federal loans), and resources for students of color, students without documentation, and military veterans.

• UW College of Education Scholarships
• Human Rights Campaign LGBTQ Scholarships Database
• Pride Foundation Scholarship
• GoGrad lists scholarships for LGBTQ individuals, Women, and Veterans
• Scholarships for Women
• Scholarships.com various scholarships for underrepresented groups
• BestColleges.com
• Careeronestop.org 
• Open Education Database
• Scholarships for Education Majors

Check Out Campus!

Follow our Graduate Program Manager, Michela Dimond, to see what IslandWood’s campus is like in this 8-minute short tour.

Full Campus Tour

If you have a bit more time and want to see as much of our campus as possible, this longer campus tour video is the one for you!

Read Our Stories →

ALUMNI REUNITE AND REIMAGINE EDUCATION THROUGH A DESIGN CHARRETTE

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FEATURING ARTIST IN RESIDENCE, ANITA SPAETH

Our recent visiting artist, Anita Spaeth, challenges the conventional bo...

POEMS AND SCAVENGER HUNTS: SPRING IN THE GARDEN!

Spring weather can be a fickle friend – one moment it's sunshine, and th...

In our program, we intentionally focus on fostering strong relationships and a supportive learning community. We look forward to connecting with you!

Start a Conversation

Our recruitment and administrative staff are also proud IslandWood Graduate Program alumni. In addition to being able to answer your questions from both an administrative and personal perspective, we can also connect you with a current student or alum pursuing your desired career path.

Start a Conversation →

If you’d prefer to send us an email or call us directly, please do! You can contact Michela Dimond, IslandWood Graduate Program Manager (and Class of 2020 graduate), at [email protected] or 206.855.4324.

Visit Campus

We’d love for you to visit our campus! We offer tours and shadowing opportunities for prospective students. We’re also happy to put you in touch with alumni who can share their perspectives about the program.

Please reach out to Michela Dimond, IslandWood Graduate Program Manager (and Class of 2020 graduate) at [email protected] to set up a tour, phone call, or to connect with current grads or alumni. We can’t wait for you to learn more about the program!

Attend an In-Person or Virtual Event

Attending a virtual or in-person event is the perfect way to learn more about the program, meet our team, and get your questions answered. For a full list of upcoming events, please visit our Events Calendar.

PROSPECTIVE GRAD EVENTS

Visit Our Community Events Calendar →

ASK A GRAD: INFO FOR PROSPECTIVE GRADUATE STUDENTS

May 13, 2025 @ 6:00 pm

May 13, 2025 @ 7:00 pm

Location: Online

Learn More →

INFORMATION SESSION FOR PROSPECTIVE GRADUATE STUDENTS

April 16, 2025 @ 4:00 pm

April 16, 2025 @ 5:00 pm

@islandwoodgraduateprogram

Get even more insight into the day to day of the program – from mentoring, social life, curriculum, guest speakers, faculty, current grad students and more – on our Instagram account.

Student Supports & Resources

The following are a variety of the resources and supports available for graduate students at IslandWood. We believe that it’s important for the graduate program to adapt to students’ needs and feedback, and are continually learning and growing to ensure that our graduates have the support they need. If you have any questions, or would like additional information about any of these resources, please reach out to us at [email protected] .

Mental Health & Wellness Resources

Mental health issues are more common than heart disease, lung disease, and cancer combined, and we believe strongly that mental health should not be stigmatized. When you need support, please consider following the links below. Here’s to a healthy experience at IslandWood!

UW Husky Health and Well-Being

• All UW-Seattle health services in one place. UW-Seattle offers a wide range of health and wellness services, from exceptional medical care and counseling services to recreation classes, safety resources, peer health advocacy, trainings and more. Some services on this site are limited to currently matriculated UW-Seattle students, while others are open to faculty, staff, and the general public.

UW Counseling Center

• The UW Counseling Center provides a safe, inclusive environment to help you explore the challenges of life and learning through: Counseling (individual, group, career and crisis), Consultation with faculty, staff and parents who have concerns about a student, Workshops, and invited presentations. These services are provided at no charge to currently-enrolled, degree-seeking UW students thanks to support by the Services and Activities Fee.

UW Hall Health

• As an enrolled student with UW, you can call their crisis center at 866-427-4747.

Private Insurance

• If you are under 26 and on your families’ insurance plan, see if you have coverage and a referral service nearby already.

Bainbridge Island Psychotherapy Guild

• A non-profit association of psychotherapists practicing on Bainbridge Island. Their website is searchable for type of credentials, insurance, issues, treatment modalities, etc.

Helpline House

• Provides free crisis intervention and referrals to local therapists, as well as complimentary counseling sessions (up to 6).  Helpline House is located in downtown Winslow.

Supports & Resources for Students With Disabilities

Information about IslandWood campus accessibility

• Learn more about the accessibility of our buildings, structures, and trails; equipment and resources available; information about service animals; and our scent sensitivity policy.

Information about UW campus accessibility

• Here, you’ll find a map identifying accessible routes, a guide to accessible parking locations and transportation services, and information on reporting any physical barriers you may encounter on campus.

UW Disability Resources for Students

• We highly recommend visiting this page, which acts as a hub of information for disability services available to UW students, including the D Center (Disability and d/Deaf Cultural Center), the Access Technology Center, the Disability Services Office, and more.

Supports & Resources for LGBTQ+ Students

UW Q Faculty, Staff & Allies Association (QFS)

• An affinity group whose vision is to foster a campus climate at UW where all LGBTQ+ faculty, staff, and allies are valued and respected, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Check out their resources page here .

UW Q Center

• A center on the University of Washington campus that provides resources, mentorship, support groups, and events for LGBTQ+ students.

Counseling & Support Group Resources

• A list of support groups and counseling resources curated for LGBTQ+ students.

UW Directory of LGBTQ+ Health Resources

• A list of health centers, peer support and discussion groups, and advocacy organizations that LGBTQ+ students may want to explore.

UW Directory of LGBTQ+ Career Resources and Professional Associations

• A list of FAQs, professional associations, and job and legal resources aimed at assisting and advocating for LGBTQ+ individuals in the workforce.

Supports & Resources for BIPOC Students

• IslandWood has scholarship funds reserved for applicants who identify as members of nondominant communities in the education and environmental fields.
• The Karr Scholarship is also available for BIPOC students, students who are the first generation in their family to attend college, and/or who demonstrate financial need. The intent of the scholarship is to foster recipients as a ‘community within a community’ and that may include additional activities and networking opportunities for all students of color within the cohort.
• Learn more about these scholarship opportunities here .

Affinity Groups:

• New as of the 2020 – 2021 cohort, and in response to our grad students, we created race-based caucus groups  on campus for both staff and graduate students, recognizing that how students engage with JEDI will be reflective of their identities and lived experiences.

Professional Networks:

We have alumni presence and professional ties with the following organizations focused on supporting people of color in environmental fields:

• Environmental Leadership Program / Ray Fellows
• Environmental Professionals of Color (EPOC)
• People of the Global Majority in Outdoors, Nature, and the Environment (PGM-ONE)

University of Washington Resources:

Several of the supports we recommend most for IslandWood students of color are housed within the University of Washington’s College of Education and Graduate School, which matriculated IslandWood students have full access to:

• UW GO-MAP at the Graduate School – provides leadership and advocacy to achieve equitable representation, access, and success for graduate students of color at the University of Washington
• Office of Student Diversity & Inclusion for the College of Education – dedicated to supporting students of color within the education department, including sharing resources, putting on workshops, connecting students with mentors, and more.

Recommended Reading

Our faculty and staff are currently reading and engaging with the following books, and have shared them with this year’s incoming graduate student cohort to help build the foundation for their professional learning community:

• We Will Not Cancel Us: And Other Dreams of Transformative Justice  by adrienne maree brown
• Lessons from Plants  by Beronda L. Montgomery
• Gathering Moss by Robin Wall Kimmerer

Our team has also been learning from and exploring the anti-racist education resources included on  this page .

ISLANDWOOD GRADUATE PROGRAM ALUMNI CENTER

A vibrant space dedicated to highlighting resources and opportunities for alumni to continue learning, stay connected, network, and share.

Learn more →

“Over the years of our UW-IslandWood connection I have witnessed graduate students arriving from IslandWood on the UW campus with a commitment and passion for environmental education that is rooted in equity and experiential learning. I can say without reservation that IslandWood is a state-of-the-art training space for graduate student educators.”

– Mark Windschitl, Professor of Science Education, University of Washington College of Education

Graduate Program in Environmental Education & Equity

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IslandWood acknowledges that we live and work on the ancestral land of the Coast Salish people, who have been stewards of this region's land and waters since time immemorial, and who continue to protect these lands and waters for future generations, as promised by the Point Elliott Treaty of 1855, the Treaty of Point No Point of 1855, and the Treaty of Medicine Creek of 1854.

While the majority of our work takes place on Suquamish (suq̀ʷabš) and Duwamish (dxʷdɐwʔabʃ) land, we also conduct programs on the land of the Snohomish (sduhúbʃ), Puyallup (spuyaləpabš), Muckleshoot (buklshuhls), Skokomish (sqoqc’bes), and S’Klallam (nəxʷsƛ̕ay̕əm) peoples.

IslandWood is a registered 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Our tax ID number is 31-1654076.

4450 Blakely Ave. NE, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110 206.855.4300

A Special Thanks to our corporate sponsor

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Outdoor Recreation Economy

How to Apply   Request More Information

Graduate Degrees in Outdoor Recreation Economy

The outdoor recreation economy program at CU Boulder provides students with a variety of opportunities to expand their knowledge and advance their careers in the outdoor recreation industry. Flexible options allow you to engage in a way that fits your career goals and your budget. Become an innovative leader, foster sustainable business operations, govern and promote access to public lands, or leverage outdoor amenities to grow local, sustainable economies.

We offer a comprehensive, industry-relevant education taught by recognized leaders in the outdoor and business fields. As the only completely online graduate program of its kind in the nation, our Master of Science program provides you the tools to: 

Degree Types

• College of Arts and Sciences
• Department of Outdoor Recreation Economy

Break into the outdoor recreation industry  

Pivot your career or blaze an entrepreneurial path

Grow the outdoor recreation economy in your community

Deepen your professional experience so you can move up in your organization

Degree Options & Application Requirements

Master of science.

• 30 credits hours of graduate level coursework
• Must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. 
• Fully online and remote coursework. Learn when and where it works for you.
• Set your personal pace. Double up on classes or take a semester off.
• Designed for a wide range of roles within outdoor recreation.

GRE/GMAT Requirements

• Not required

Application Deadlines

• July 1, 2023: Priority application deadline for U.S. master's degree students/final application deadline for international master's degree students
• July 15, 2023: Final application deadline for U.S. master's degree students (all application materials must be submitted)

Spring 2024

• Nov. 1, 2023: Priority application deadline for U.S. master's degree students/final application deadline for international master's degree students
• Nov. 15, 2023: Final application deadline for U.S. master's degree students (all application materials must be submitted)

For program details, review the course catalog for the MS in outdoor recreation economy .

Research Areas

• Public Lands and Natural Resources Policy
• Challenges and Opportunities for Community Economic Development
• Leadership in the Outdoor Recreation Industry
• Building Resilient Communities Through Outdoor Recreation
• Leading a Sustainable Business in the Outdoor Recreation Economy 
• Inclusivity in the Outdoor Recreation Economy

Learn More About Research Areas at CU Boulder

Funding Opportunities

We understand funding opportunities play a major role in helping you to decide whether a program is right for you. At CU Boulder, PhD students are supported through research and teaching assistantships. Students are also encouraged to apply for their own sources of funding.

Explore General Funding     Explore Department-Specific Funding

Graduate Student Resources

Student success is best met with holistic support and resources. CU Boulder offers robust resources, programming and opportunities to help students establish meaningful connections, adjust to graduate student life and find assistance when they need it. Whether it’s academic, social, or health and wellness support, the university provides an array of resources to meet the diverse needs of our students.  

Graduate Student Organizations

Explore ways to connect with other graduate students on campus, online and off campus, locally and internationally.

Diversity, Equity, Access & Inclusion

Learn about our commitment to ensuring our graduate education is accessible and welcoming for all students.

Health & Wellness

Find resources with contact and location information for a broad range of services.

Leadership Development

Attend regular, graduate-specific workshops and seminars to hone practical and professional skills before entering the job market.

Peer Mentoring Program

Connect with an established graduate peer mentor who serves as your guide through the graduate student experience.

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Online Graduate Outdoor Adventure Certificate Reach New Heights

Credit Hours

View Courses

100% online, 8-week courses

Transfer in up to 50% of the degree total

Achieve New Heights with a Graduate Certificate in Outdoor Adventure Sports

If you love the outdoors and want to share that passion with others, then Liberty’s 100% online Graduate Certificate in Outdoor Adventure Sport may be for you! Our program can help provide the foundation you need to advance your career in outdoor education, adventure sports, or outdoor leadership.

Learn how to create dynamic, meaningful adventure experiences for your clients. In this online certificate program, you will study the history and theory behind outdoor adventure sports management. You’ll also study how to design and oversee adventure education programs, advocate for outdoor recreation organizations, and navigate policies related to conservation and protected areas.

A career in outdoor recreation can help you build lasting relationships with others and show them the beauty of God’s creation. Partner with us and prepare to lead people on life-changing adventures!

Ranked in the Top 10% of Niche.com’s Best Online Schools in America

• What Sets Us Apart?
• Private Nonprofit University
• 600+ Online Degrees
• No Standardized Testing for Admission
• Transfer in up to 75% of an Undergrad Degree
• Transfer in up to 50% of a Grad/Doctoral Degree

Why Choose Liberty’s Online Outdoor Recreation Certificate?

Liberty has been a leader in distance education since 1985. A lot has changed since then, but our commitment to Training Champions for Christ has not. We want to help you achieve your career goals and use your skills in service to God and others.

At only 9 credit hours, you can earn this certificate in just 9 credit hours! Our Graduate Certificate in Outdoor Adventure Sports is an excellent alternative to a full-length master’s degree because it allows you to gain new skills while saving time and money.

If you later decide to further your education, credits from this certificate can transfer seamlessly into our M.S. in Sport Management – Outdoor Adventure Sport degree program. Our outdoor adventure certificate is offered 100% online, so you can complete your coursework from anywhere in the world!

What Will You Study in Our Outdoor Adventure Courses?

Our online outdoor education courses can help you navigate the administrative and management aspects of outdoor recreation. You’ll explore topics like land management, risk management, group dynamics, and community engagement. We offer training from industry experts who are committed to your success.

In this program, you’ll be taught how to:

• Analyze and address challenges facing the adventure sports field.
• Build community support for outdoor recreation organizations.
• Create experiential environments that promote the health, safety, and well-being of participants.
• Develop an outdoor education lesson for a chosen population.
• Explain and analyze policies related to wildlands, protected areas, and conservation.
• Navigate the legal aspects of an outdoor adventure sports business.

Potential Career Opportunities

Our outdoor adventure sports certificate can help you prepare for several career paths. Depending on your current knowledge, education level, and experience, there are many different positions that could benefit from our accredited certificate:

• Adventure leader
• Camp director
• Outdoor education leader
• Outdoor program developer
• Park ranger

The managerial and leadership skills that you gain from our certificate in outdoor adventure sports can be an asset in many other aspects of the sports and recreation world as you pursue positions of added responsibility. Additionally, the credits from this certificate may transfer directly into the master’s in sports management – outdoor adventure sports . Take the next step towards your personal and professional goals with an outdoor adventure sports certificate from Liberty University.

Additional education or training may be required for some jobs or occupations. Conferral of a certificate does not guarantee job placement.

Required Courses

• SMGT 611 – Foundations of Outdoor Adventure Sport
• SMGT 612 – Outdoor Adventure Programming
• SMGT 613 – Leadership and Administration of Outdoor Adventure Sport

Certificate Information

• This certificate program falls under the School of Business .
• View the Graduate Business Course Guides (login required) .

Certificate Completion Plan

Not sure what to choose?

Speak to one of our admissions specialists to help you choose the program that best fits your needs.

• Tuition & Aid

Your success is our success, which is why we are committed to providing quality academics at an affordable tuition rate. While other colleges are increasing their tuition, we have frozen tuition rates for the majority of our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs for the past 9 years – and counting.

All Tuition & Fees

Financial Aid & Scholarships

Financial Aid Forms & Eligibility

Scholarship Opportunities

Admission Information for Liberty’s Adventure Sports and Outdoor Education Certificate Online

Admission requirements.

• A non-refundable, non-transferable $50 application fee will be posted on the current application upon enrollment (waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required) .
• Send official college transcripts (mailed as sealed, unopened copies or sent via a direct electronic transcript system). A regionally or nationally accredited bachelor’s degree with at least a 2.5 GPA is required for admission in good standing. Applicants who have earned a master’s degree or at least 12 graduate credits from an accredited institution will be assessed on the basis of the master’s-level degree work.
• Applicants whose native language is other than English must submit official scores for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or an approved alternative assessment. For information on alternative assessments or TOEFL waivers, please call Admissions or view the official International Admissions policy .

Transcript Policies

Official college transcript policy.

An acceptable official college transcript is one that has been issued directly from the institution and is in a sealed envelope. If you have one in your possession, it must meet the same requirements. If your previous institution offers electronic official transcript processing, they can send the document directly to [email protected] .

Admissions Office Contact Information

(800) 424-9596

(888) 301-3577

Email for Questions

[email protected]

Email for Documents

[email protected]

Liberty University Online Admissions Verification

1971 University Blvd.

Lynchburg, VA 24515

Ready to Apply?

Submit your application online or over the phone.

Apply by phone: (800) 424-9595

Liberty University is dedicated to providing world-class educational experiences to military students across the globe.

Who May Qualify?

• Active Duty
• Reserve/National Guard
• Veterans/Retirees
• Spouses of Service Members and Veterans/Retirees
• Current Department of Defense Employees

Available Benefits:

• Tuition discounts – $275 per credit hour for graduate courses
• Additional discount for veterans who service in a civilian capacity as a First Responder (less than $625 per course) *
• 8-week courses, 8 different start dates each year, and no set login times (may exclude certain courses such as practicums, internships, or field experiences)

*Not applicable to certificates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “outdoor adventure sports” mean.

Outdoor leaders oversee adventure activities like rock climbing, mountain biking, kayaking, horseback riding, hiking, and skiing. These outdoor activities are a great way to explore the wilderness, improve one’s physical and mental health, and promote the well-being of nature. Typically, outdoor recreation leaders work for national parks, state parks, camps, or recreation programs.

Who accredits Liberty University?

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ( SACSCOC ).

How fast can this certificate be completed?

You can complete our outdoor education courses online in just 9 credit hours!

Is this certificate program flexible?

Our adventure sports courses are only 8 weeks long with 8 different start dates offered each year and no set login times.

Inner Navigation

• Why Choose Liberty?
• What Will You Study?
• Admission Information

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*Some restrictions may occur for this promotion to apply. This promotion also excludes active faculty and staff, military, non-degree-seeking, DGIA, Continuing Education, WSB, and certificate students.

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Academic Pathway | Culinary, Hospitality and Outdoor Recreation & Leadership

✽ Outdoor Education Emphasis (AA)

Study Outdoor Education with CMC's Popular Outdoor Education Program

Become a leader in the land you love! Our epic location in the heart of the Rocky Mountains will challenge you with high peaks, raging rivers, steep canyons and steep descents. Seasoned outdoor professionals will guide you to build the skills you need to be a confident outdoor leader.

CMC’s Outdoor Education degree provides you with the groundwork of a liberal arts education combined with theoretical and hands-on outdoor leadership experiences. From rafting down a desert canyon to trekking up and over one of the state’s many 14,000-ft. mountain peaks, you’ll push yourself and learn to lead others along the way.

SPECIALIZED TRAINING

Learn outdoor leadership skills with a pack on or paddle in hand. You will practice leading and following others while traveling on high mountain peaks, glaciated valleys, the canyons of the Southwest, wild rivers, and beautiful desert environments.

TWO-YEAR OUTDOOR PROGRAM

The Outdoor Education program strives to be a positive steward of the natural environment, with a special focus on sustainable practices. Faculty provide both experience- based and theory-based learning opportunities through the coursework, with an emphasis on student goals, industry- standard practices, and fun.

WHERE CAN I GO FROM HERE?

A degree in Outdoor Education prepares you to pursue further education or head directly into a career.

• Public school outdoor programs
• Counsel at-risk youth in outdoor therapy programs
• Technical jobs with federal agencies (Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management)
• Municipal parks and recreation

OUT Photo Gallery

Request Program Information

First Name* Last Name* Email Address* Cell Phone Anticipated First Semester* Select a Semester 2025 Spring 2025 Summer 2025 Fall 2026 Spring Questions for Admissions?

Real World Learning

• Outdoor leadership
• Mountaineering
• Backcountry travel and appreciation
• Avalanche awareness
• First aid, CPR and safety
• Biology, ecology and geology
• Ethics and anthropology

The ✽ Outdoor Education Emphasis (AA) is offered at:

• Breckenridge: Mostly in-person
• Dillon: Mostly in-person
• Leadville: Mostly in-person
• Spring Valley at Glenwood Springs: Mostly in-person
• Steamboat Springs: Mostly in-person

All or part of this operation is conducted on Public Lands and Waters under special permits and agreements from the U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

This program has certain physical and academic standards which you will be required to meet before you are admitted to the program. Students accepted into the college's vocational programs must be physically, mentally, and emotionally self-supportive with reasonable accommodations.

If there is a concern about meeting the physical and academic standard, students need to contact the Access Coordinator who will determine the student's ability to participate in this program.

Where can I go from here?

Our program prepares you for a job or further study upon graduation:

• Pursue a degree in education, business, environmental science or recreation law
• Become an advisor for Outward Bound or NOLS
• Manage a region of the Student Conservation Association
• Teach via Experiential Education at an environmental primary school
• Work with city parks and recreation teams
• Direct outdoor programs in public schools.

Graduates are prepared to enter the outdoor, adventure and recreation fields including:

• Retail sales
• Resort recreation
• Military or community outdoor recreation
• Technician positions with federal agencies such as the Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management.

Colorado Mountain College Outdoor Education program graduates often transfer to four-year institutions to pursue a bachelor's or graduate degree in outdoor education, adventure and recreation, teacher and school counselor certification, and anthropology, philosophy and environmental sciences.

Graduates have gone on to attend Colorado universities, and out-of-state institutions such as the University of New Hampshire, Alaska Pacific University, the University of Washington and Western Washington University.

Related Degrees

Sustainability Studies Ecosystems Science & Stewardship Business Administration

Outdoor Recreation Leadership

Certificate

Avalanche Science Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Professional Fly-Fishing Guide Rope Rescue Technician Sustainability Leadership Wilderness Emergency Medical Services

Outdoor Education and Leadership — BS

Equipping Students to Lead 

Pfeiffer University equips outdoor education and Leadership graduates with the skills necessary to succeed in the growth industry of the outdoors. With a bachelor’s degree in Outdoor Education and Leadership, graduates can pursue many different fields including Adventure and Environmental Education, Conservation Law, Outdoor Programing, Youth Ministry, and more.

At a Glance

Campus: Misenheimer Degree Type: Bachelor’s Complete in 4 years

Related Links

Undergraduate Admissions Financial Aid Department of Education

About the Program

Pfeiffer’s undergraduate Outdoor Education and Leadership program provides students who have a passion for the outdoors to build on knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary to utilize aspects of the outdoors to influence people either individually or as groups. The interdisciplinary program includes courses from education, communication, counseling and human services, psychology, business and environmental studies.

With a 340-acre Pfeiffer campus as well as quick access to Morrow Mountain State Park, Uwharrie National Forest, Lake Tillery, Badin Lake, and the U.S. National Whitewater Center, students in this program will have the opportunity to go beyond the traditional classroom experience and be emersed into training and experiences necessary to serve in a variety of outdoor educational experiences.

How to Apply

To be admitted to the Outdoor Education and Leadership program, you must first apply to Pfeiffer using our undergraduate admissions application.

Pfeiffer’s Outdoor Education and Leadership program combines a wide range of courses including psychology, communications, business, health and wellness, sociology, and more, so that graduates can successfully plan, implement, and evaluate programs to meet the diverse needs of those served in the outdoor industry. Students make a minimum investment of 59 semester hours in required courses and specialty studies, in addition to general education requirements and electives. Students will also complete an internship within the field.

Hands-On Experience

With most of the Outdoor Education and Leadership courses having an experiential learning component, students will get hands-on experience throughout their time within the program. Students will also complete a required internship, giving them real-world experience within the field.

Career Opportunities

History majors interested in joining the workforce immediately after graduation may pursue professions such as:

• Outdoor Program Administrator
• Conservation Law Officer
• Outdoor Educator
• National or State Park Ranger
• Camp Director

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Graduate programs in Outdoor Education

While Earlham College does not offer any graduate programs in Outdoor Education, we have many recommendations for those interested in pursuing a graduate degree.

• Alaska Pacific University – MS Outdoor and Environmental Education
• California State University, Chico – MA Kinesiology with a focus in Outdoor Education
• Georgia College – MEd Outdoor Education Administration
• Griffith University – Australia – MA Environment
• Hofstra University – Advanced Certification in Adventure Education
• Indiana University – MS Recreation
• Minnesota State University Mankato – MS Experiential Education
• North Dakota State University – MS Health, Nutrition & Exercise Management with a focus in Recreation Management
• Northern Illinois University – MSEd Outdoor Teacher
• Ohio University – MS Recreation & Sport Science
• Plymouth State – MS Adventure Education
• Prescott College – MA Outdoor Education Leadership, MA Adventure Education
• Southern Adventist University – MdEd Outdoor Education
• Southern Illinois University, Carbondal – MSEd Recreation
• Teton Science School – MS Field Science Leadership
• Texas A&M – MS Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Science
• Trinity Saint David, Wales – MA in Outdoor Education
• University of Akron – MA/MS Outdoor Education
• University of Edinburgh, Scotland – MS Outdoor Education, PGDip Outdoor Education, PGCert OE
• University of Idaho – MS Movement & Leisure Studies
• University of New Hampshire – MS Recreation Management & Policy
• University of Utah – MS Parks, Recreation & Tourism
• West Virginia University – MS Recreation, Parks, Tourism Management

Beyond the classroom: Epic

Our Epic centers work together to make your Earlham experience an impactful and life-changing one. Use the links below to quickly navigate through all Epic has to offer you.

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Graduate Education

Our program provides broad training in neurological processes and phenomena; the experimental methods, results, and theories from the study of psychology, language, and social and cultural issues; and the studies of computational mechanisms. We offer three graduate programs in Cognitive Science: 

Cognitive Science PhD Program

• The Cognitive Science PhD Program

Specialization in Anthropogeny

A  transdisciplinary graduate specialization in anthropogeny with the aim of providing graduate students the opportunity to specialize in research and education on explaining the origins of the human phenomenon. This specialization is not a stand-alone program but aims at providing graduate students who have just embarked on their graduate careers with the opportunity to interact and communicate with peers in radically different disciplines throughout the duration of their PhD projects. Such communication across disciplines from the outset is key to fostering a capacity for interdisciplinary “language” skills and conceptual flexibility.

https://carta.anthropogeny.org/training/specialization-track

Specialization in Computational Social Science

Computational Social Science (CSS) integrates large-scale data analysis with formal, causal models from social science domains, to not only improve predictions but also guide extrapolation and intervention beyond existing data. Students pursuing the specialization will find a clear path to accessing training in computational social science, a formal mechanism for recognizing their efforts, and access to a broad network of relevant scholars.

Eligibility

The graduate specialization in computational social science is only available to students currently enrolled in a PhD program at UC San Diego in the following School of Social Sciences departments: anthropology, communication, cognitive science, economics, education studies, ethnic studies, linguistics, political science, psychology, and sociology. Doctoral students in these departments may apply for the specialization through the CSS administration, housed in the Department of Psychology, with the endorsement of the student’s primary research adviser and department chair. Students are eligible to join the CSS specialization at any time pre-candidacy; post-candidacy requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and may require additional justification relating to time to degree.

Requirements

In addition to the PhD requirements of their home department, admitted students are required to complete the following requirements:

• Three quarters of CSS 209. Computational Social Science Research Seminar.
• Three courses from a list of electives, at least one of which must not count toward the home department PhD requirements, with at least one of these electives drawn from the subset of “advanced data” courses.
• Appointment to the dissertation committee of at least one CSS affiliated faculty member not affiliated with the student’s home department.
• Satisfactory completion of a dissertation including a technical and/or computational social science component.

Specialization in Human-Centered Design

• Specialization in Human-centered Design

The   graduate specialization   is a set of courses students can choose to take that fits into their home degree program requirements. It is analogous to receiving a minor, but at the graduate level. As such, the specialization does not alter home program requirements. Instead, the courses fit into their home program as either electives or as courses that were already part of their core requirements. The graduate specialization is created so that it can be integrated into a one- or two-year master’s program or a PhD program.

All students who seek the specialization are required to take:

DSGN 201 (four units)

DSGN 219 (one unit)

Cognitive science students should take two courses from this list:

COGS 220. Information Visualization

COGS 230. Topics in Human-Computer Interaction

COGS 231. Design Seminar on Human-Centered  Programming

COGS 260. Crowdsourcing

Cognitive science students should take one course to meet the power, privilege, and ethical response requirement, from this list:

FMPH 258C. Ethics in Public Health Research and Practice

FMPH 460. Design and Public Health

COGR 275. Ability/Cultures of Care

COGR 275. Design and Politics

COGR 275. Mediated Ability: Media, Technology, and [Dis]ability

COGR 275. Researching Creative Labor: Media Production Cultures

COMM 275. Advanced Topics in Communication: Designing for Access

COMM 275. Advanced Topics in Communication: Disabling Modernism

All other requirements (e.g., projects such as theses/dissertations, teaching requirements, support) are set in accordance with a student’s home degree program. Just as a minor does not alter a student’s major as an undergraduate, the specialization does not alter any of cognitive science’s home degree program requirements. This specialization is simply a collection of classes that, if taken, represents sufficient training in human-centered design to warrant a specialization designation.

San Diego State University (SDSU) and the University of California San Diego (UC San Diego), offer jointly a doctoral program in Language and Communicative Disorders. The program’s focus is the interdisciplinary study of language and communicative disorders. A major emphasis of the program is to apply techniques developed in cognitive science and neuroscience to the study of language and language disorders. The program involves study and research in normal language (including sign languages of the deaf and language impairments), and in the neural bases of language use and language loss.

http://slhs.sdsu.edu/phd/

Cognitive Science

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Graduate Advising

Virtual Advising: vac.ucsd.edu

8:30 - 12 p.m. & 1 - 4 p.m. Monday through Friday

Email: [email protected]  

Cognitive Science Building First Floor, CSB 145

• County Superintendent of Schools

Inside the Outdoors marks 50 years of inspiring environmental stewardship in Orange County

For half a century, Inside the Outdoors has been at the forefront of environmental education in Orange County, fostering a deep connection between students and the natural world. Since its inception in 1974, the program — administered by the Orange County Department of Education — has reached over 3.5 million students, offering immersive outdoor experiences that bring science to life. 

The journey began with the opening of the Outdoor Science School in 1974, a milestone that set the stage for decades of growth. By 1981, Inside the Outdoors — also known as ITO — expanded to include day programs, ensuring that more students could experience the wonders of nature firsthand. 

“Inside the Outdoors has been a transformative force in environmental education, touching the lives of millions of students,” said Orange County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Stefan Bean. “For many of these young learners, ITO provides a first-time opportunity to connect with nature in ways they’ve never experienced before, opening doors to a world of discovery and stewardship.” 

“As we celebrate our 50th year, we remain dedicated to ensuring that every student, regardless of their background or circumstances, has the chance to explore the outdoors and be inspired by the wonders of the natural world.”

Representatives from ITO, who accompany teachers and students on field trips, play a role in supporting and guiding hands-on learning experiences. They aim to help students develop a deeper connection to the environment and an appreciation for their role in its stewardship. “Over the decades, Inside the Outdoors has touched the lives of countless students, teachers and community members by emphasizing the importance of learning beyond the classroom, encouraging exploration and curiosity about their local environment and beyond,” said Stephanie Smith, who has been with the program since 1999.

Smith, who serves as the operations manager, emphasizes that the program’s goal has always been to share knowledge about local ecosystems, science and indigenous cultures, all while fostering a love for the outdoors. 

Explore engaging learning opportunities

This 2024-25 school year, ITO is celebrating its golden anniversary with a series of events designed to reconnect the community with its mission. From volunteer opportunities to special field trips, the program invites past participants, educators and the public to join in commemorating 50 years of environmental education.

Local schools and districts can take advantage of fully-funded Traveling Scientist programs , which are now open for applications. These free programs, available to students in grades three through 12, are designed to bring learning to life through engaging, hands-on experiences. The Scientist of the Sewers program, supported by the Orange County Sanitation District, introduces fifth-grade, middle and high school students to the importance of sanitation and public health. 

For younger students, the Drip Drop Assembly program, sponsored by the Municipal Water District of Orange County and the Family of Orange County Water Providers, offers valuable water education to third-, fourth- and fifth-graders.

Middle school and high school classes can also explore water-related topics through the Wonders of H2O program, which is similarly funded by the Municipal Water District of Orange County and the Family of Orange County Water Providers. 

Additionally, in the City of Anaheim, Anaheim Public Utilities is sponsoring the Renewable Energy Traveling Scientist programs, available to fourth-graders and high school students, providing an in-depth look at renewable energy sources and their impact on the environment.

In partnership with OC Waste & Recycling, ITO launched the EcoChallenge curriculum in 2021, aiming to challenge local leaders and students alike to adopt sustainable behaviors. Available for grades K-12 and after-school programs, this curriculum raises awareness of landfill processes, organic waste diversion and resource recovery through standards-aligned lessons and activities.

Field trips return to Mt. San Antonio College

Teaching programs will resume at Mt. San Antonio College in Walnut starting in October 2024, with opportunities available one week each month for TK-5th grade students.

The Ecosystem Extravaganza field trips , designed for students in grades TK-2, will offer an engaging introduction to various ecosystems. The Native American field trips, aimed at third- and fourth-grade students, will explore Native American history and culture. Calendars are now open for registration, inviting schools to take advantage of these educational experiences.

To learn more about upcoming events and how to get involved, visit www.insidetheoutdoors.org .

Course Catalog 2024-2025

Applied behavior analysis, m.a., program description.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the application of scientific principles taken from behavior analysis to socially significant behavior change. The goal of ABA is to improve learning and decrease challenging behavior, which may impact the individual’s quality of life. ABA is an effective intervention for many problems and populations, including those with and without specific diagnoses, across settings.

The program consists of 33 hours of coursework which will allow students to obtain a Master of Arts Degree in ABA. Completion of the course work will allow students to qualify to sit for the exam to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and, where applicable, licensed to practice. Marshall University psychology, special education, counseling, school psychology, business, and social work students may want to seek this additional degree to enhance their employment options. Students pursuing graduate degrees related to rehabilitation services (e.g., communication disorders, counseling, nursing, and social work) or business may want to complete coursework in the area to learn more about evidence-based practices derived from ABA.

Admission Requirements

All applicants (including those seeking admission as professional development (certification only), should follow the admissions process described in this catalog or at the Graduate Admissions website at  www.marshall.edu/graduate/admissions/how-to-apply-for-admission .

In addition to Marshall University’s requirements for admission, applicants must have:

• An undergraduate Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.80 or higher on a 4.0 scale, or a graduate degree from an accepted, accredited institution; and
• Two letters of recommendation from professionals who know the candidate well.

Students currently enrolled at Marshall University:

Students currently enrolled at Marshall University as a graduate student and who are in good academic standing may complete courses in ABA as electives by adding them to their Plan of Study .

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