Adventure Education Major

The Adventure Education major will prepare the individual for a career as an adventure educator. The student will gain the theory, knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to successfully plan, implement, administer, and supervise educational experiences in the outdoor setting. Adventure education programs focus on the interpersonal relationships and personal growth that can occur during outdoor adventure activities and includes ropes course experiences, extended wilderness trips, day activities such as rock climbing, caving, and canoeing. Students have the option of spending a semester on a NOLS (National Outdoor Leadership School) course in the Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains, or Desert Southwest.

The curriculum addresses areas identified as key elements of outdoor education such as leadership style, trip planning, environmental issues, risk management, outdoor living skills, and Christian integration models. Career choices include, but not limited, to the following: Adventure Resorts and Travel, Commercial Outfitters, Environmental Education Centers, and Municipality Recreation Programs.

Student Goals

1. The student will demonstrate an understanding of the philosophical and historical foundations of adventure education.

2. The student will demonstrate the ability to design, lead, and evaluate educational experiences for various audiences utilizing adventure activities.

3. The student will demonstrate competency in a variety of adventure skills and will be able to instruct and lead others in these activities.

4. The student will demonstrate an understanding of group dynamics and leadership styles in an adventure context.

5. The student will understand the principles of risk and risk management in adventure education. The student will have the knowledge and skills to respond to unexpected events.

Curriculum Sheets

Adventure Education Major Curriculum Sheet

Adventure Education Major Four Year Program Guide