Education

Outdoor education

Why study Outdoor education?

The Outdoor and Environmental Education unit in Bendigo has an international reputation and is the largest dedicated provider of outdoor and environmental education in the world. Combine outdoor environmental experiences with environmental and naturalist studies. Focus on developing knowledge about nature, interpreting the environment, building relationships with the land by living and travelling simply, and understanding culture, language and experience. Study environmental science and outdoor education concepts drawn from psychology, education, eco-psychology, environmental ethics and ecophilosophy.

Choose your level of emphasis between environmental studies and activity-focused fieldwork. Students in the BA (Outdoor Recreation Education) specialise in paddling, rock climbing and winter alpine environments. BA (Outdoor Education) students choose two activity areas in second and third year and three elective subjects to strengthen their studies or build a submajor in another discipline. The BA (Outdoor and Environmental Education) is the most environmentally focused course. Study environmental interpretation, sustainability, bush environments and spend three weeks paddling up the Murray River to observe and experience the environment. The Bachelor of Physical and Outdoor Education combines outdoor and environmental education with teaching to offer a four-year secondary teaching qualification.

Career opportunities

Graduates are prepared for careers in outdoor and environmental education services to schools, community environmental education, and as interpreters and guides in national parks. Many graduates complete an additional one-year Graduate Diploma in Education and work as school-based outdoor education teachers or in school-owned residential camps.

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

Outdoor education courses (Mid year entry)
Offer year	Course title	Campus(es)	Duration	Semester starts
2013	Bachelor of Outdoor Education	Bendigo	3 years full-time	Semester 1 (March)
Bachelor of Outdoor Education continued… Course description This course aims to qualify students for careers in outdoor education, adventure guiding, environmental education or related fields. It strongly emphasises environmental knowledge and practical experience. The curriculum covers environmental science studies and outdoor education concepts, drawing from psychology, education, eco-psychology, environmental ethics and eco-philosophy. Theoretical studies help students explore the ways in which new environments shape our knowledge, and how we shape the environment by our attitudes and practices. Core fieldwork subjects include bushwalking, paddling, cross-country skiing, rock climbing, and naturalist studies. Please note: teaching in Australian government schools requires completion of a further Graduate Diploma in Education or Master of Teaching. Prerequisite VCE Units 3 & 4: study score of at least 25 in English (ESL) or 20 in English (any). Extra requirements Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Pi form 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. Non-Year 12 applicants are encouraged to complete a La Trobe Outdoor and Environmental Education Supplementary Information form. For a copy call (03) 5444 7285 or download from www.latrobe.edu.au/education/outdoors/study-pathways Selection ATAR 82.35 (2012) 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, Pi form, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice. 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. Fee type Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) 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. How to apply VTAC 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
2013	Bachelor of Outdoor Environmental Education	Bendigo	3 years full-time or part-time equivalent	Semester 1 (March)
Bachelor of Outdoor Environmental Education continued… Course description Aimed at students who wish to lead and teach in fields relevant to outdoor environmental education, this course encompasses natural history, environmental studies, and social and cultural aspects of the environment. While it aims to provide some outdoor skills and knowledge, it focuses mainly on outdoor environmental education studies. Please note: teaching in Australian government schools requires completion of a further Graduate Diploma in Education or Master of Teaching. Prerequisite VCE Units 3 & 4: study score of at least 25 in English (ESL) or 20 in English (any). Extra requirements Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Pi form 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. 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 Selection ATAR 74.15 (2012) Guaranteed Entry (Year 12 applicants only): applicants with an ATAR of 90 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, Pi form, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice. 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. Fee type Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) 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. How to apply Apply through VTAC. For more information, call La Trobe's Future Students Centre on 1300 135 045 or send an email to study@latrobe.edu.au Professional recognition When combined with an appropriate fourth year of study (e.g. La Trobe's 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 Environmental EducationBendigo
2013	Bachelor of Outdoor Recreation Education	Bendigo	3 years full-time or part-time equivalent	Semester 1 (March)
Bachelor of Outdoor Recreation Education continued… Course description With an emphasis on environmental and social responsibility, as well as cultural aspects of outdoor recreation, this course aims to train future leaders and teachers in fields relevant to outdoor recreation education. In line with this, it 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. Please note: teaching in Australian government schools requires completion of a further Graduate Diploma in Education or Master of Teaching. Prerequisite VCE Units 3 & 4: study score of at least 20 in English (any). Extra requirements Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Pi form 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. Non-Year 12 applicants are encouraged to complete a La Trobe Outdoor and Environmental Education Supplementary Information form. For a copy call (03) 5444 7285 or download from www.latrobe.edu.au/education/outdoors/study-pathways Selection ATAR 58.25 (2012) 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. may be based on ATAR, Pi form, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice. 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. Fee type Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) 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. How to apply Apply through VTAC. 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
2013	Bachelor of Physical and Outdoor Education	Bendigo	4 years full-time or part-time equivalent	Semester 1 (March)
Bachelor of Physical and Outdoor Education continued… 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). Extra requirements Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Pi form 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. 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. Selection ATAR 66.45 (2012) 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, Pi form, GPA, STAT Multiple Choice. Middle band Consideration is given to Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS) criteria; and a regional bonus may apply. Fee type Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) 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. How to apply VTAC 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 are also a wide range of scholarships available for local students.

International students

Outdoor education international courses
Offer year	Course title (CRICOS)	Campus(es)	Duration	Semester starts	Annual Tuition Fee (AUD)
2012	Bachelor of Outdoor Education (074699C)	Bendigo	3 years	Semester 1 (February)	$21 320
Bachelor of Outdoor Education continued… Year 2012 Course description This course aims to qualify students for careers in outdoor education, adventure guiding, environmental education or related fields. It strongly emphasises environmental knowledge and practical experience. Core fieldwork subjects include Bushwalking, Paddling, Cross-Country Skiing, Rock Climbing, and Naturalist Studies. Theoretical studies investigate how knowledge is shaped by new environments and how the environment, in turn, is shaped by our thoughts and practices. The program encompasses environmental science studies and outdoor education concepts drawn from psychology, education, eco-psychology, environmental ethics and eco-philosophy. English Language Requirements IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0; or TOEFL Paper-based Test: a minimum score of 550 with a score of 5 or better in the Test of Written English; or TOEFL Computer-based Test: a minimum score of 213 with a score of 5 in essay writing; or TOEFL Internet-based Test: a minimum score of 80 with no individual score less than 20; or Satisfactory completion of an English language subject at Year 12 or equivalent level. This must have been completed in the last two years and at an academic level acceptable to the University; or Approved equivalent. Academic entry requirements LTM Foundation Studies - 75 Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2011 (indicative only) - 85.45 International Baccalaureate - 26 GCE A Levels - 8 Hong Kong A Levels - 7 HKDSE - 8,5 Sri Lankan A Levels - BCC STPM - 8 MICSS (UEC) - 3A 3B 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 Thailand (Matayoma 6) - GPA 2.8 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. Course details Outdoor EducationBendigo
2012	Bachelor of Outdoor Environmental Education (074701C)	Bendigo	3 years	Semester 1 (March)	$21 320
Bachelor of Outdoor Environmental Education continued… Year 2012 Course description This course aims to prepare students to teach and lead in fields relevant to outdoor environmental education, with emphasis on natural history, environmental studies, and social and cultural aspects of the environment. While the course provides the opportunity for students to develop some outdoor skills and knowledge, it focuses mainly on outdoor environmental education studies. Please note: teaching in Australian government schools requires completion of a further Graduate Diploma in Education or Master of Teaching. English Language Requirements IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0; or TOEFL Paper-based Test: a minimum score of 550 with a score of 5 or better in the Test of Written English; or TOEFL Computer-based Test: a minimum score of 213 with a score of 5 in essay writing; or TOEFL Internet-based Test: a minimum score of 80 with no individual score less than 20; or Satisfactory completion of an English language subject at Year 12 or equivalent level. This must have been completed in the last two years and at an academic level acceptable to the University; or Approved equivalent. Academic entry requirements LTM Foundation Studies - 65 Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2011 (indicative only) - 82.35 International Baccalaureate - 27 GCE A Levels - 7 Hong Kong A Levels - 7 HKDSE - 8,4 Sri Lankan A Levels - CCC STPM - 8 MICSS (UEC) - 3A 3B Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 75 Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 4 Sweden Slutbetyg - G/VG All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 60 Vietnam (Year 12) - 8.2 Thailand (Matayoma 6) - GPA 2.8 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. Course details Outdoor Environmental EducationBendigo
2012	Bachelor of Outdoor Recreation Education (074700D)	Bendigo	3 years	Semester 1 (February)	$21 320
Bachelor of Outdoor Recreation Education continued… Year 2012 Course description This course aims to prepare students to teach and lead in fields relevant to outdoor recreation education, with an emphasis on environmental and social responsibility and cultural aspects of outdoor recreation. Students develop expertise in activities across a wide range of environments including bush, rock, alpine and river. Practical electives include subjects covering rock climbing, cross-country skiing, cycling and paddling. English Language Requirements IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0; or TOEFL Paper-based Test: a minimum score of 550 with a score of 5 or better in the Test of Written English; or TOEFL Computer-based Test: a minimum score of 213 with a score of 5 in essay writing; or TOEFL Internet-based Test: a minimum score of 80 with no individual score less than 20; or Satisfactory completion of an English language subject at Year 12 or equivalent level. This must have been completed in the last two years and at an academic level acceptable to the University; or Approved equivalent. Academic entry requirements LTM Foundation Studies - 65 Aust. Yr 12 (ATAR) 2011 (indicative only) - 60.20 International Baccalaureate - 24 GCE A Levels - 7 Hong Kong A Levels - 7 HKDSE - 8, 4 Sri Lankan A Levels - CCC STPM - 8 MICSS (UEC) - 3A 3B Canada Secondary School (or CPU) - 63 Norway Upper Secondary Certificate - 3.5 Sweden Slutbetyg - G All Indian Sen SC (Best 5 Subjects) - 60 Vietnam (Year 12) - 8.2 Thailand (Matayoma 6) - GPA 2.8 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. Course details Outdoor Recreation Education Bendigo
2012	Bachelor of Physical and Outdoor Education (056794J)	Bendigo	4 years	Semester 1 (February)	$21 970
Bachelor of Physical and Outdoor Education continued… Year 2012 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) 2011 (indicative only) - 70.05 International Baccalaureate - 24 GCE A Levels - 8 Hong Kong A Levels - 7 HKDSE - 12, 6 (the student must meet the higher than standard English language requirement) Sri Lankan A Levels - NA STPM - 8 MICSS (UEC) - NA 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) - NA Thailand (Matayoma 6) - 2.8 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. Special requirements Applicants are required to provide evidence of a National Criminal or Police Check clearance from each country or countries in which they have lived for 12 months or more within the previous 10 years (after the age of 18 years). The criminal record check must be presented at enrolment in the course before the start of semester. 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. 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.