BHSU’s Outdoor Education Program prepares students for professional careers across the broad field of outdoor education which includes adventure education, parks interpretation, and environmental education. Our students are grounded in experiential education theory and natural history knowledge. They develop their skills in outdoor pursuits, education methods, interpretive communications, and outdoor program management. They practice program delivery via our numerous partnerships with regional parks, nature centers, schools, and camps, as well as with BHSU’s Collegiate Outdoor Leadership Program.
A degree in Outdoor Education from BHSU equips students for education careers in parks, nature centers, zoos, aquaria, natural resource management agencies, eco-tourism programs, camps, wilderness programs, 4-H extension programs, field stations, non-profits, lodges, and other locations that value hard-working, knowledgeable, well-rounded educators.
In addition to our excellent, well-rounded major, our program includes several electives (free choice credits) in which students can enhance their knowledge, skills, and abilities in their specific areas of interest; many select one of BHSU’s many or minors such as American Indian studies, archives, art, athletic coaching, biology, business, criminal justice, early childhood education, earth science, entrepreneurial studies, geography, health, history, international studies, graphic design, guitar performance, historical site interpretation, journalism, management, museums, philosophy, photography, professional writing, psychology, social & cultural awareness, social resiliency, sociology, and writing.
Science Core
- Select from courses in biology, geology, zoology, botany, and conservation.
Outdoor Leadership Core
- Select technical outdoor skills courses like archery, backpacking, canoeing, cross country skiing, lifeguarding, orienteering, outdoor skills, rock climbing, or SCUBA.
- Select one or both of these first responder courses: wilderness first responder or emergency medical technician.
- Take the organization and management of outdoor programs course to develop skills to lead outdoor programs.
- Learn to work with people of all abilities by taking an adapted physical education course.
Environmental Interpretation Core
- Environmental Education: Theory and Practice Learn to lead evidence-based, value-fair programs.
- Environmental Interpretation Earn the Certified Interpretive Guide certificate from the National Association for Interpretation.
- Interpretive Media Use the power of the internet to market and educate via websites, video, and social media methods.
- Sustainability Classes Keep up-to-date with best practices that balance societal, environmental, and economic interests.
Electives
Personalize your program and develop a specialty area to enhance your employability. Many students select certifications and minors in the following areas:
Certificates:
- Criminal Justice
- Entrepreneurial Studies
- Management
- Social Media
Minors:
- Biology
- Earth Science
- Psychology
- Historical Site Interpretation