Adventure Expeditions and Interpretive Leadership
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Program Overview
Prepare for a career in the ecotourism industry leading authentic learning experiences that respect local ecological principles. This outdoor adventure program utilizes an experiential learning approach that allows students to gain hands-on experience, develop skills and earn certifications. What could be better than a career sharing the wonder and beauty of nature with others?
Program Details
Program Code
AEL2J
Credential:
Ontario College Diploma
Duration
60 weeks
Canadian Students
Start Dates
Locations
Availability
Full Time Offerings
2024 September
Simcoe
Open
2023 September
Simcoe
Closed
International Students
Start Dates
Locations
Availability
Full Time Offerings
2024 September
Simcoe
Open
2023 September
Simcoe
Closed
Your Learning Experience
To prepare you for the dynamic and complex ecotourism industry, this outdoor adventure diploma program has been built on three key pillars:
- Adventure Expedition
- Interpretive Naturalist
- Business Entrepreneurship
You’ll study marketing and business strategies, along with ecological and science-based courses in flora and fauna, geology, adventure guiding, environmental interpretation and education, management of national and heritage of natural areas, and wilderness first aid.
Students have the opportunity to receive over 16 outdoor certifications upon graduation, ensuring they have the skills to be successful in a variety of relevant disciplines. When finished the program, you’ll graduate with a holistic view of the natural world, and with knowledge of the conservation, tourism and business sides of the adventure industry.
The Adventure Expeditions and Interpretive Leadership program, leading to a two-year Ontario College Diploma, provides the training, practical skills and eco-tourism industry experience to prepare graduates for work locally, provincially, nationally, and internationally as Interpretive Naturalist leaders.
You'll have the skills to develop and manage resorts, trails, and interpretive projects. You’ll be able to design, deliver, and evaluate programs that will affect people deeply, and serve your passions for the earth in all of its wonder and beauty.
Career Information
Career Information
Graduates of Fanshawe’s Adventure Expeditions and Interpretive Leadership program are prepared to begin their careers as leaders within the eco-tourism industry with the ability to develop, operate and manage attractions, resorts, activities and trails. With the skills needed to design, deliver and evaluate meaningful interpretive programs for a variety of audiences, adventure awaits!
Did you know Fanshawe consistently ranks high in graduation employment rates among large colleges in Ontario?
Here are some examples of career opportunities for graduates of Fanshawe’s Adventure Expeditions and Interpretive Leadership program:
Leadership Adventure Program Director
Connect people with nature by facilitating outdoor recreation and experiential learning.
Wilderness Guide
Lead tours specialized in providing Algonquin Provincial Park educational adventures to travellers from around the world.
Summer Travel Counsellor
Share your passion about the natural wonders and urban adventures to help visitors discover what Ontario has to offer.
Program Progression
| Fall | Winter | Summer |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Level 1 | Academic Level 2 | Off |
| Academic Level 3 | Academic Level 4 |
|
Being a part of this unique and intensive program, that combines both the love of travel and the outdoors, quickly became a very special time in my life. It allowed me to push myself in directions I never thought possible before.
Leanne Gauthier-Helmer
AEL1J Grad and Instructor
Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
1. Perform interpretive naturalist activities using ecological, environmental and geographical concepts related to flora, fauna, and wildlife.
2. Instruct and safely guide others in ecotourism activities and adventure expeditions such as canoeing, snowshoeing, backpacking, and camping.
3. Design, deliver, and evaluate meaningful interpretive programs for a variety of audiences.
4. Develop and present a marketing plan for ecotourism and adventure expeditions.
5. Develop a business plan capitalizing on opportunities in the adventure expeditions and ecotourism industries.
6. Provide safe environments for interpretive and outdoor activity by using current and relevant risk management concepts and strategies.
7. Complete all work in compliance with the appropriate ethical, legislative and regulatory requirements of the ecotourism and adventure-tourism industries.
Related Programs
Academic School
Program Coordinator:
Robin Tapley
International Admission Equivalencies
Admission equivalencies for Fanshawe depends on your country of study. Please enter your location to see the requirements for your country below.
Tuition Summary
Simcoe
*Total program costs are approximate, subject to change and do not include the health and dental plan fee, bus pass fee or program general expenses.