Courses and degrees

A-Z study options

Outdoor education

Why study Outdoor education?

Outdoor education is the study of relationships humans have with nature through outdoor experiences. Experience how knowledge is shaped by environments and how the environment in turn is shaped by our thoughts and practices. You will study concepts drawn from psychology, education, eco-psychology, environmental ethics and eco-philosophy.

From 2013 the areas of specialisation Outdoor Environmental Education, Nature Tourism and Natural Resources Education are offered as majors within the Outdoor Education and Outdoor Recreation Courses rather than as independent courses. The course structures and subject range remain the same.

The five majors offered across the two courses give you choice in subjects, specialisations and outcomes. With the exception of Physical and Outdoor Education, the first year of each course is similar allowing you to apply to transfer at the end of first year when, after a year of study and experience in the unit, you are better equipped to decide which is the right course and major for you.

Be part of the close knit student and staff community at the largest dedicated provider of outdoor and environmental education in the world.

Career opportunities

Graduates are prepared for careers in outdoor and environmental education services to schools, community environmental education, as interpreters and guides in national parks, land and natural resources management, environmental interpretation for government or corporate sector, sustainability and ecology community education, and nature tourism operations. An additional one-year Graduate Diploma in Education qualifies graduates to teach in schools.

Graduates of the physical and outdoor education course are qualified to teach in secondary schools in the specialist areas of physical education and outdoor and environmental studies.

Courses

Local students

2013

Bachelor of Outdoor Education

Duration :: 3 years full-time
Semester starts :: Semester 1 (March)
Campus/ATAR:: Bendigo 82.45

Year: 2013
Course description: This course focuses on environmental knowledge and practical outdoor experience. Students are able to choose from three major areas of study in Outdoor Education, Environmental Sustainability or Nature Tourism. This allows students to choose the amount of either practical studies of different environments or theoretical environmental studies leading towards different career outcomes.

The Outdoor Education major aims to qualify students for careers in outdoor education, adventure guiding, environmental education or related fields.
The Environmental Sustainability Education major encompasses natural history, environmental studies, and social and cultural aspects of the environment leading to careers as educators in outdoor education and environmental education providers or local government agencies.
The Nature tourism major involves the study of environmental interpretation, land management and the practice of nature guiding, and aims to prepare students for professional roles in environmental education and/or interpretation in environmental settings that provide visitor services. These include national parks, zoos, botanical gardens, and private nature tourism operations.
Prerequisite: VCE Units 3 & 4: study score of at least 25 in English (ESL) or 20 in English (any).
Year 12 and non-year 12 extra requirements: Guaranteed Entry (Year 12 applicants only): applicants with an ATAR of 80 or above will receive a first-round offer; those with lower ATARs will be considered through normal selection processes. Non-Year 12 selection may be based on ATAR, VTAC Personal History online, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.

Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal History online if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application.

For more information about VTAC Personal History online please visit our Extra Requirements page.
Middle band: Re-ranking is based on English (any), Outdoor and Environmental Studies, Environmental Science, Geography and Biology. Consideration is also given to Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) criteria; and a may apply.
Costs: Students should allow A$1500 - A$2000 to purchase suitable outdoor field equipment such as a sleeping bag and wet weather gear. These items may be purchased from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Students are encouraged to bring any camping gear they already have and to wait until they have commenced the course before buying any new gear.
How to apply: Apply direct to the University for Semester 1 or Semester 2, 2013.
Professional recognition: When combined with a fourth year of study (Graduate Diploma in Education), the course is accredited and recognised by the Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) for teaching in primary and secondary schools.
Full course details: Outdoor EducationBendigo

Bachelor of Outdoor Recreation Education

Duration :: 3 years full-time or part-time equivalent
Semester starts :: Semester 1 (March)
Campus/ATAR:: Bendigo 61.1

Year: 2013
Course description: This course places an emphasis on environmental and social responsibility, as well as cultural aspects of outdoor recreation and natural resources. This course aims to train future leaders and teachers in fields relevant to the two major areas of study, Outdoor Recreation Education and Natural Resources Education.
The Outdoor Recreation major aims to provide students with expertise in activities across a wide range of environments including bush, rock, alpine and river. Practical electives include subjects in rock climbing, cross-country skiing and paddling.
The Natural Resources Education major is suitable for students who are interested in communicating with others about the natural environment. It provides a thorough grounding in outdoor environmental education and environmental studies relevant to a wide range of roles in conservation, natural resource management and sustainability. Students develop a deep understanding of ecology and the cultural and natural history of alpine, woodland, coastal and river environments of south-eastern Australia.
Prerequisite: VCE Units 3 & 4: study score of at least 20 in English (any).
Year 12 and non-year 12 extra requirements: Guaranteed Entry (Year 12 applicants only): applicants with an ATAR of 65 or above will receive a first-round offer; those with lower ATARs will be considered through normal selection processes. Non-Year 12 selection may be based on ATAR, VTAC Personal History online, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.

Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal History online if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application.

For more information about VTAC Personal History online please visit our Extra Requirements page.
Middle band: Re-ranking is based on English (any), Outdoor and Environmental Studies, Environmental Science, Geography and Biology. Consideration is also given to Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) criteria; and a regional bonus may apply.
Costs: Students should allow A$1500 - A$2000 to purchase suitable outdoor field equipment such as a sleeping bag and wet weather gear. These items may be purchased from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Students are encouraged to bring any camping gear they may already have and to wait until they have commenced the course before purchasing any new gear.
How to apply: Apply direct to the University for Semester 1 or Semester 2, 2013.
Professional recognition: Graduates are eligible for National Outdoor Leader Registration in areas that correspond with their activity electives.
Full course details: Outdoor Recreation Education Bendigo

Bachelor of Physical and Outdoor Education

Duration :: 4 years full-time or part-time equivalent
Semester starts :: Semester 1 (March)
Campus/ATAR:: Bendigo 71.35

Year: 2013
Course description: This course leads to a qualification to teach in secondary schools in the specialist areas of physical education and outdoor environmental studies. It comprises 32 subjects in teaching studies, curriculum studies, and discipline studies (physical education and outdoor education) including outdoor activity electives. Students also undertake 80 days' professional experience in schools.

For those seeking to gain an initial teaching qualification, this is a professional entry teacher training course. The Victorian Institute of Teaching has approved this teacher education course for teacher registration, which is a prerequisite for employment as a school teacher in Victoria.
Prerequisite: VCE Units 3 & 4: study score of at least 30 in English (ESL) or 25 in any other English, and at least 25 in one of Physical Education, Health and Human Development or Outdoor and Environmental Studies.
Units 1 & 2: two units of General Mathematics or Mathematical Methods (CAS) or Units 3 & 4 of Mathematics (any).
Year 12 and non-year 12 extra requirements: Guaranteed Entry (Year 12 applicants only): applicants with an ATAR of 75 or above will receive a first-round offer; those with lower ATARs will be considered through normal selection processes.
ATAR (2011): 70.05

Non-Year 12 selection may be based on ATAR, VTAC Personal History online, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice.

Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal History online if they wish other information to be considered during the selection process. This may include information such as work experience or reasons for applying. Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application.

For more information about VTAC Personal History online please visit our Extra Requirements page.

Non-Year 12 applicants are encouraged to complete a La Trobe Outdoor and Environmental Education Supplementary Information form. For a copy please call (03) 5444 7285 or download from: www.latrobe.edu.au/education/outdoors/study-pathways

All students must complete a Working With Children Check form (available from Post Offices) prior to enrolment.
Middle band: Consideration is given to Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) criteria; and a regional bonus may apply.
Costs: Students should allow A$1500 - A$2000 to purchase suitable outdoor field equipment such as a sleeping bag and wet weather gear. These items may be purchased from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Students are encouraged to bring any camping gear they already have and to wait until they have commenced the course before buying any new gear.
How to apply: Apply direct to the University for Semester 1 or Semester 2, 2013.
Professional recognition: The degree is accredited with the Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) to teach outdoor education and physical education in secondary schools. The Outdoor Education Council of Australia acknowledges it as appropriate for leadership in several outdoor pursuits.
Full course details: Physical and Outdoor Education Bendigo

Want to know more?

Feel free to ask us a question about any course for local students.

Fees and scholarships

Undergraduate courses are Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) for eligible Australian and New Zealand citizens. The domestic fee calculator can be used to calculate the cost of subjects this year.

There is also a wide range of scholarships available for local students.

International students

2013

Bachelor of Outdoor Education (074699C)

Duration :: 3 years
Semester starts :: Semester 1 (March)
Annual Tution Fee (AUD) :: 22 040
Campus: Bendigo

Year: 2013
Course description: This course focuses on environmental knowledge and practical outdoor experience. Students are able to choose from three major areas of study in Outdoor Education, Environmental Sustainability or Nature Tourism. This allows students to choose the amount of either practical studies of different environments or theoretical environmental studies leading towards different career outcomes.

The Outdoor Education major aims to qualify students for careers in outdoor education, adventure guiding, environmental education or related fields.
The Environmental Sustainability Education major encompasses natural history, environmental studies, and social and cultural aspects of the environment leading to careers as educators in outdoor education and environmental education providers or local government agencies.
The Nature tourism major involves the study of environmental interpretation, land management and the practice of nature guiding, and aims to prepare students for professional roles in environmental education and/or interpretation in environmental settings that provide visitor services. These include national parks, zoos, botanical gardens, and private nature tourism operations.
English Language Requirements: IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0;

TOEFL Paper-based Test - a minimum overall score of 550 with a score of 5 or more in the Test of Written English;

TOEFL Internet-based Test - a minimum overall score of 60 with a minimum for SLR 18; W 22;

Satisfactory completion of the English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B (EFS5 UG minimum 60 per cent) which is available from La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.

La Trobe Melbourne Foundation Studies: 60 per cent final result in a course;

English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted. Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English) for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an IELTS 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0.

Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): a minimum score of 57 with no communicative skill score less than 50.

Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher.

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a pass grade of C or higher;

or approved international equivalent.
Academic entry requirements: LTM Foundation Studies - 75
Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2012 (indicative only) - 82.35
International Baccalaureate - 24
GCE A Levels - 8
Hong Kong A Levels - 7
HKDSE - 3 x Level 4
Sri Lankan A Levels - BCC
STPM - 8
MICSS (UEC) - 5
Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 75
Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 4
Sweden Slutbetyg - G/VG
All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 75
Vietnam (Year 12) - 8
Indonesia (SMA) - 7.5
GAC Cert. IV - GPA 2.6
GAO KAO - see:
the website

If you do not meet these entry requirements you might be interested in La Trobe's Foundation Studies and Diploma Programs, which provide an alternative pathway to La Trobe's undergraduate program. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
Additional costs: Students should allow A$1500 - A$2000 to purchase suitable outdoor field equipment such as a sleeping bag and wet weather gear. These items may be purchased from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Students are encouraged to bring any camping gear they already have and to wait until they have commenced the course before buying any new gear.
Additional information: Students should ensure they are aware of the physical components and location requirements of the course. Students with a disability, medical condition or any concerns that may affect potential participation in some of the practical components of the course are invited to discuss their options with the course coordinator:
Outdoor.Education@latrobe.edu.au
Full course details: Outdoor EducationBendigo

Bachelor of Outdoor Recreation Education (074700D)

Duration :: 3 years
Semester starts :: Semester 1 (March)
Annual Tution Fee (AUD) :: 22 040
Campus: Bendigo

Year: 2013
Course description: This course places an emphasis on environmental and social responsibility, as well as cultural aspects of outdoor recreation and natural resources. This course aims to train future leaders and teachers in fields relevant to the two major areas of study, Outdoor Recreation Education and Natural Resources Education.
The Outdoor Recreation major aims to provide students with expertise in activities across a wide range of environments including bush, rock, alpine and river. Practical electives include subjects in rock climbing, cross-country skiing and paddling.
The Natural Resources Education major is suitable for students who are interested in communicating with others about the natural environment. It provides a thorough grounding in outdoor environmental education and environmental studies relevant to a wide range of roles in conservation, natural resource management and sustainability. Students develop a deep understanding of ecology and the cultural and natural history of alpine, woodland, coastal and river environments of south-eastern Australia.
English Language Requirements: IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0;

TOEFL Paper-based Test - a minimum overall score of 550 with a score of 5 or more in the Test of Written English;

TOEFL Internet-based Test - a minimum overall score of 60 with a minimum for SLR 18; W 22;

Satisfactory completion of the English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B (EFS5 UG minimum 60 per cent) which is available from La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.

La Trobe Melbourne Foundation Studies: 60 per cent final result in a course;

English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted. Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English) for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an IELTS 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0.

Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): a minimum score of 57 with no communicative skill score less than 50.

Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher.

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a pass grade of C or higher;

or approved international equivalent.
Academic entry requirements: LTM Foundation Studies - 65
Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2012 (indicative only) - 58.25
International Baccalaureate - 24
GCE A Levels - 7
Hong Kong A Levels - 7
HKDSE - 2 x Level 4
Sri Lankan A Levels - CCC
STPM - 8
MICSS (UEC) - 5
Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 63
Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 3.5
Sweden Slutbetyg - G/VG
All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 60
Vietnam (Year 12) - 8.2
Indonesia (SMA) - 7.5
GAC Cert. IV - GPA 2.6
GAOKAO - see: the website

If you do not meet these entry requirements you might be interested in La Trobe's Foundation Studies and Diploma Programs, which provide an alternative pathway to La Trobe's undergraduate program. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
Additional costs: Students should allow A$1500 - A$2000 to purchase suitable outdoor field equipment such as a sleeping bag and wet weather gear. These items may be purchased from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Students are encouraged to bring any camping gear they may already have and to wait until they have commenced the course before purchasing any new gear.
Additional information: Students should ensure they are aware of the physical components and location requirements of the course. Students with a disability, medical condition or any concerns that may affect potential participation in some of the practical components of the course are invited to discuss their options with the course coordinator.
Full course details: Outdoor Recreation Education Bendigo

Bachelor of Physical and Outdoor Education (056794J)

Duration :: 4 years
Semester starts :: Semester 1 (March)
Annual Tution Fee (AUD) :: 22 700
Campus: Bendigo

Year: 2013
Course description: This course leads to a qualification to teach in secondary schools in the specialist areas of physical education and outdoor environmental studies. It comprises 32 subjects in teaching studies, curriculum studies, and discipline studies (physical education and outdoor education) including outdoor activity electives. Students also undertake 80 days' professional experience in schools.

For those seeking to gain an initial teaching qualification, this is a professional entry teacher training course. The Victorian Institute of Teaching has approved this teacher education course for teacher registration, which is a prerequisite for employment as a school teacher in Victoria.
English Language Requirements: An overall academic IELTS (or equivalent) score of 7.5 with no individual score below 7 and a score of no less than 8 in speaking and listening.
Academic entry requirements: LTM Foundation Studies - 75
Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2012 (indicative only) - 66.45
International Baccalaureate - 24
GCE A Levels - 8
Hong Kong A Levels - 7
HKDSE - 3 x Level 4
Sri Lankan A Levels - NA
STPM - 8
MICSS (UEC) - 5
Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - NA
Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - NA
Sweden Slutbetyg - NA
All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - NA
Vietnam (Year 12) - 8.2
Indonesia (SMA) - 7.5
GAC Cert. IV - GPA 2.6
GAOKAO - see: the website

If you do not meet these entry requirements you might be interested in La Trobe's Foundation Studies and Diploma Programs, which provide an alternative pathway to La Trobe's undergraduate program. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.
Subject prerequisite: One Physical Education or Health or Outdoor and Environmental Studies subject at either Year 11 or Year 12. Year 11 Mathematics (or a bridging course).
Additional costs: Students should allow A$1500 - A$2000 to purchase suitable outdoor field equipment such as a sleeping bag and wet weather gear. These items may be purchased from any supplier; they remain students' personal property. Students are encouraged to bring any camping gear they already have and to wait until they have commenced the course before buying any new gear.
Professional recognition: The course is accredited with the Victorian Institute of Teaching for registration to teach in outdoor education and physical education in secondary schools.
Full course details: Physical and Outdoor Education Bendigo

How to apply?

Enquire now about any course for international students or find out how to apply.

Fees and scholarships

Estimated fees for international students are indicated for each course above. Fees are indicative only and set at 120 credit points per course, unless otherwise stated, and may vary depending on the number of credit points in which students enrol. Some courses may vary in credit point load and fees will be adjusted accordingly.

There is also a range of scholarships available for international students to assist students.

Related study options

Your study experience

Practical work and field trips

Each program includes field trips and practical work experience. You will typically complete between 25 and 45 practical days each year including three-week expeditions for most courses. Develop expertise in local Box-Ironbark environments and the Australian Alps, the Murray basin, the Grampians or the Victorian coast. Extended trips have included South-West Tasmania, Broome and the Whitsunday Islands.

Overseas study opportunities

You may be eligible for our student exchange program.

About the academic staff

You'll get to meet a large number of academics during your course, from tutors through to lecturers. You can view all the staff from the Faculty of Education or focus on staff in Outdoor education.