Individual research is conducted under the supervision of a faculty member. Topic and format must be approved by the Department Chairperson and Dean.

Individual research is conducted under the supervision of a faculty member. Topic and format must be approved by the Department Chairperson and Dean.

Perspectives on adventure are linked to culture, gender, race, and nationalism. Contemporary adventure is also connected to human development, recreation, tourism, and advertising. This course examines these phenomena across history, while also exploring the ways adventure experiences transcend culture, elucidate our relationship to the natural world, inspire awe, and help us make sense of what it means to be human. 

Students who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency gain experience working with various adventure programs and populations. A minimum 30 days of pre-approved adventure leadership/instruction experience required prior to enrollment in AE 380.

Students establish a mentor relationship with an Adventure Education faculty member and assist in teaching a skills or theory course. Includes regular mentor and/or seminar meetings, plus meetings of class being taught.

Provides an overview of river rescue scene size-up, leadership and scene management strategies, and fast, low-tech, and improvised river rescue techniques. Basic river skills are a prerequisite. Students who successfully complete this course will receive certification in swiftwater rescue from an internationally recognized organization.

An exploration of specialized concepts and techniques in environmental and place-based education (EPBE), with a particular emphasis on applications to adventure education settings. Topics include an overview of different types of environmental education (including nature education, environmental interpretation, conservation education, and education for sustainability); the value and applicability of place-based education in educational settings; and specific instructional strategies.

An introduction to the professional expectations, responsibilities and global opportunities in adventure education. Topics include the meaning of adventure education, clients and settings, the difference between personal recreation and professional preparation, environmental and social impacts, public land resources, and international trends. A weekend reflection/solo experience is included.

Each year this course focuses on a different adventure topic. Topics may include multi-cultural and international adventure pursuits, corporate adventure training, therapeutic adventure, eco-psychology in outdoor adventure, and other topics.

This course provides the skills to process and facilitate the learning experiences of client groups in indoor and outdoor settings using experiential and adventure-based activities, group discussion, active listening, front loading, metaphors, and debriefing. Includes an overview of group development stages, ways to cultivate mindfulness, and inclusive team-building strategies. Students develop and facilitate a one-time program for a client group.