Bachelor of Sustainability and Outdoor Education
Environment
A course by
Ara Institute of Canterbury
The only degree in NZ combining outdoor education with a major sustainability focus. Graduates gain knowledge of sustainability, society, and outdoor education, preparing for roles in education, conservation, outdoor instruction, and guiding.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Ara Institute of Canterbury, Christchurch
It will take a total of 3 years
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Develop effective teaching and leadership skills outdoors
Graduates will possess methods for guiding, teaching, and leading others in outdoor environments with an emphasis on interpersonal effectiveness and safety.
Understand and apply principles of sustainability
Gain knowledge of environmental issues, sustainability practices, and the influence of human activity on natural landscapes.
Demonstrate practical outdoor skills
Achieve competency in a range of outdoor activities (e.g., kayaking, rock climbing, mountain biking) with a strong safety and risk management focus.
What You're Signing Up For
This degree uniquely integrates sustainability and outdoor education, balancing theory and fieldwork to develop skills in environmental science, leadership, teaching, and inter-personal communication. Students engage with NZ's landscapes, exploring geography, climate, cultural and social issues, and develop practical outdoor skills including water and land-based activities. Career outcomes include environmental educator, outdoor instructor, adventure and ecotourism guide, and roles in health, recreation or conservation. The degree includes a range of electives, hands-on skill development, and engagement with relevant industries.
Course Content
- Health and wellness outdoors
- Human and physical geography of Aotearoa NZ
- Professional practices
- Teaching and learning in outdoor settings
- Leadership and decision making
- Safety and resource management policy
- Environmental science and sustainability challenges
- Land-based and water-based practical outdoor skills
- Māori studies and indigenous perspectives
- Climate change
- Adventure therapy
- Adventure pursuits (rock climbing, kayaking, surfing)
- Capstone project and research
- Applied instruction
What you need to know first
University Entrance: NCEA Level 3 (60 credits at level 3, 20 credits at level 2 or higher), with 14 credits in three approved subjects
Literacy: 10 credits at Level 2 or above (5 reading, 5 writing)
Numeracy: 10 credits at Level 1 or above
Comprehensive two-day First Aid Certificate
NZ Police Vetting (depending on placement)
Ability to swim 50m, ride a bike, and hike with full pack
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Environmental Education
Adventure Tourism
Conservation
Recreation
Future employment opportunities might be
Environmental educator
Outdoor instructor
Adventure/ecotourism guide
Community health/recreation roles
Conservation sector roles
Coming Soon: Nexties Explorer
Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.
More details