Bachelor
Gain a competitive edge with this unique degree combining environmental science and outdoor leadership, tailored to meet growing industry demand for outdoor adventure guides, educational practitioners and environmental leaders. Develop a holistic understanding of the bioscience and social science concepts informing this emerging field and become a recognised leader in growing professions such as outdoor education, adventure therapy, ecotourism and environmental interpretation.
Benefit from a curriculum based on well above world-class research in environmental sciences and management,1 with a focus on practical real-world experiential learning and strong foundational research practice skills. Apply your learned skills and knowledge during over 400 hours of intensive and immersive industry placement and fieldwork, including the opportunity to lead groups in outdoor programs and undertake self-guided adventure trips.
You will develop core knowledge and skills in biodiversity, ecology, Earth systems, sustainable ecosystems and caring for country. This critical knowledge base will be further enhanced by studies of leadership, professional practice and management foundations.
12018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).
You will explore an integrated range of industry-relevant topics balancing core concepts of bioscience and social science. Develop foundational knowledge in key areas such as biodiversity, sustainable ecosystems, caring for country, coastal environments and Earth systems.
In your final year, you will strengthen your understanding of professional practice, advanced environmental science, as well as specialised management skills fostering your transition into the workforce.
In addition to placement opportunities within leading industry environments, you will apply your learned skills through intensive fieldwork including:
Develop in-demand research skills alongside world-class researchers during your degree, focussing on areas such as species study, laboratory analysis of soils and contamination, sampling and field-based data collection, and critical analysis of human-nature interactions.
You can gain an extra qualification and broaden your career prospects by completing a Diploma in Languages.
The field of Outdoor Environmental Leadership is currently experiencing rapid expansion, with very strong future growth in employment outcomes predicted.1 In fact, the demand for outdoor adventure guides is expected to increase by more than 19 per cent over the next five years, with low levels of unemployment.2
Outdoor Environmental leaders can be employed in a wide range of settings, with the versatility of expertise applicable to the global industry of nature-based leadership and environmental interpretation.
Graduates will be able to consider careers such as:
Outdoor education practitioner: facilitate nature-based outdoor learning experiences for personal and group development, health and wellbeing, environmental learning, sustainability and social justice
Community development officer: design, implement and lead initiatives and collective solutions to address issues associated with recreational, health, housing and other community welfare matters
Ecotourism guide: plan and lead culturally-aware and environmentally-sustainable experiences to assist with nature-based therapy and responsible tourism practices
Outdoor adventure instructor: provide adventure-based experiential education in nature-based adventure, with specialisations in this field including abseiling, rock climbing and bushwalking
Youth worker: collaborate with social workers, psychologists and support agencies to provide therapeutic outdoor experiences for at-risk youth and community members
Environmental interpretation officer: provide guidance and consultation for human interaction with natural environments and educate visitors and tourists in areas of cultural and conservationist significance.
Further your studies with a Master of Environmental Science, or pursue a career in teaching by following on from this degree with the Master of Teaching (Secondary), enabling you to teach across Biology or Environmental Science. Visit 'How do I become a secondary teacher?' for more information.
Interested in a career using your outdoor and environmental leadership skills and knowledge to help others? Follow this degree with a Master of Social Work. *conditions apply.
Graduates are also well-placed for further study in areas such as psychology, management, engineering, project management or Indigenous leadership.
1Australian Government, Job Outlook 2019.2Australian Government Department of Jobs and Small Business 2019.