Prepare for an exhilarating career in nature, adventure, or ecotourism sectors.
The two-year Outdoor Adventure Naturalist Ontario College Diploma program, delivered in a compressed format over 43 weeks, is the perfect choice for anyone interested in working as a professional in the adventure/ecotourism sector, guiding and educating clients through the interpretation of natural environments and led outdoor activities (LOAs). The Program is delivered with our partner, Wilderness Tours, Canada`s largest outdoor adventure company.
As a student, you spend approximately 600 hours completing field study and practical skills training in outdoor settings/classrooms.
Explore areas such as:
river touring (kayak touring and gentle rafting)
no-trace camping and wilderness travel skills
cross-country cycle touring
flatwater canoeing
astronomy
winter camping and travel skills
tracking
wildlife viewing
photography
wild edible and small plant identification
birding
Students complete extended activity skills training sessions and take on several expeditions - the last being self-executed. The program`s curriculum also includes business courses in interpretive media, marketing the tourism experience, as well as financial and small business management to enhance and diversify your career options and pathways.
Students also have the option to gain real-world experience through a paid co-operative education (co-op) work term (see Additional Information for more details). Please note that places in the co-op work term are subject to availability and academic eligibility. Please note admission to the co-op program does not guarantee a co-op placement.
In addition, students have the opportunity to obtain several industry-related certifications, such as:
Canadian Wildlife Federation (CWF) Wild Educator Facilitator
Assistant Cycle Tour Guide
Paddle Canada Waterfront Canoe Instructor and Camping Program Instructor
Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
Paddle Canada Level I or II Sea Kayak Skills
Heritage Interpreter Certification
Leave No Trace (LNT) Master Educator
Upon graduation, you are ready for an exciting, in-demand career. Be prepared to work a:
nature and/or heritage interpreter
led outdoor activity guide/facilitator
nature, interpretive or ecotourism guide
program manager
Graduates may also pursue entrepreneurial opportunities in the nature/adventure/ecotourism sectors.
SUCCESS FACTORS
This program is well-suited for students who:
Enjoy a hands-on approach to learning about the outdoor adventure tourism industry.
Are concerned about social, economic and environmental (SEE) sustainability and want to personally learn more about SEE sustainability in the Outdoor Adventure Tourism industry.
Are committed to guiding and teaching others in a variety of environments.
Are interested in learning the skills and abilities required to become an Interpretive/Nature based guiding professional.