Outdoor Adventure

Program overview

The Outdoor Adventure Ontario College Diploma program is a two-year course designed to prepare students for exciting careers in the outdoors. This program focuses on leading adventure trips and teaching inclusive outdoor skills. Students will spend half of their time outdoors, engaging in various adventure operations, including training at the partner location, Wilderness Tours. The other half of the program is conducted at Algonquin College's Waterfront Campus. Students will receive technical training in land-based activities such as mountain biking, rock climbing, skiing, and snowshoeing, as well as water-based activities like whitewater rafting and kayaking.

Program structure

The Outdoor Adventure program spans a duration of two years, during which students will engage in a comprehensive curriculum that combines both practical and theoretical learning. The program structure includes:

• Half of the program conducted outdoors in various locations.
• Technical training in land-based and water-based activities.
• Classroom courses covering essential topics such as risk management, business management, and ecotourism.
• Participation in one expedition per term, culminating in a graduating project.
• Opportunities to earn up to 20 industry certifications.

Students will also benefit from hands-on experience through field placements, allowing them to apply their skills in real-world settings. The program emphasizes adventure tourism and small business management, preparing graduates for diverse career paths in the outdoor industry.

Featured Experiences

The Outdoor Adventure program offers a variety of unique experiences that enhance learning and skill development:

• Participation in one expedition per term, providing practical outdoor experience.
• Hands-on training in various outdoor activities, including:
• Mountain biking
• Rock climbing
• Skiing and snowshoeing
• Whitewater rafting and kayaking
• Opportunities to earn industry certifications, such as:
• Wilderness First Responder
• Swift Water Rescue Technician
• Canoe and Whitewater Kayak Instructor
• Leave-no-trace Trainer
• Field placements that provide hands-on experience in the outdoor adventure industry.

These experiences are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their future careers.

Career Options

Graduates of the Outdoor Adventure program can pursue a variety of exciting career opportunities in Canada, including:

• Wilderness Trip Leaders: Responsible for planning and leading outdoor expeditions, ensuring safety and enjoyment for participants.
• Kayak Guides: Leading kayaking trips, providing instruction, and ensuring the safety of participants on the water.
• Climbing Instructors: Teaching rock climbing techniques and safety practices to individuals and groups.
• Ski Patrol Members: Ensuring the safety of skiers on the slopes, providing first aid and emergency response as needed.
• Canoe Instructors: Teaching canoeing skills and safety to students, leading trips on various waterways.

With a combination of in-the-field training and technical skills, graduates are well-prepared for entry-level positions and can advance to senior roles in the outdoor adventure industry.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.