Outdoor Adventure (Co-op) at Algonquin College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-01-21

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. The curriculum emphasizes adventure tourism and small business management, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for their future careers.

Program structure

The Outdoor Adventure program spans a duration of two years. The structure of the program includes:

Half of the program is spent outdoors in various adventure operations.
Technical training in land-based activities such as mountain biking, rock climbing, skiing, and snowshoeing.
Guiding ability development in water-based activities like whitewater rafting and kayaking.
Classroom courses covering risk management, business management, ecotourism, human resources, and computer applications.
Participation in one expedition per term, culminating in a graduating project executed with classmates.
Opportunity to earn up to 20 industry certifications, including Wilderness First Responder and Swift Water Rescue Technician.

Students will also engage in field placements, providing hands-on experience in real-world settings, which is an integral part of the curriculum.

Featured Experiences

The Outdoor Adventure program offers a variety of unique experiences, including:

Participation in one expedition per term, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world scenarios.
Hands-on training in various outdoor activities, enhancing practical skills and confidence.
Opportunities to earn industry certifications, which are valuable for employment in the outdoor adventure sector.
Field placements that provide practical experience in adventure tourism and outdoor education.
Access to a network of industry professionals and potential employers through partnerships with organizations like Wilderness Tours.

These experiences are designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the outdoor adventure industry, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary for success.

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 managing emergencies.
Canoe Instructors: Teaching canoeing skills and safety to students, often in a camp or educational setting.

These roles often involve seasonal work, allowing graduates to combine multiple positions for year-round employment and travel opportunities. The program's comprehensive training prepares students for various positions within the outdoor adventure industry.

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

Visit Algonquin College official website

Last updated on 2026-01-21

Program overview

Academic Requirements

All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.

College Eligibility:

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent;
Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing, for which a fee will be charged.

Program Eligibility:

English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).
Mathematics, Grade 11 (MBF3C or equivalent).
PART 1:

Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject-specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

PART II:

Prior to commencement of the program, accepted applicants must:

Participate in a mandatory Program Readiness Camp orientation weekend (several dates available, details in Applicant's Handbook available on program website).
Submission of Applicant Personal Information, Consent and Health form (available on program website), prior to attending mandatory Program Readiness Camp orientation weekend.
Provide proof of current Standard First Aid Certification.
Sign and submit an Outdoor Adventure Program Assumption of Risk and Release form (available at program website).
Those under the age of 18 must submit Parental Consent documentation (available on program website).

Prerequisite Courses:

English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).
Mathematics, Grade 11 (MBF3C or equivalent).

For any clarification and support regarding the application process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

For the Outdoor Adventure (Co-op) Diploma program, the following English language proficiency tests are accepted:

IELTS - International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band.
TOEFL - Internet-based (iBT) Overall 80, with a minimum of 20 in each component:
- Reading 20
- Listening 20
- Speaking 20
- Writing 20
Duolingo English Test (DET) - Overall 110, with a minimum of 110 in Literacy and no score below 95.

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!