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Outdoor Recreation Management at Capilano University Celebrates 40 Years

Back To News May 17th, 2012

LinkBC Feature Program: Passion. Purpose. Profession... Perfect.

In September 1972, the inaugural Outdoor Recreation program at Capilano University (Cap College at the time) welcomed its first 18 students to class. Unlike your average classroom, this program was set in the great outdoors and assignments were in the form of backcountry expeditions and survival skill training.As was characteristic of the 70s, the program thrived on its reputation within the college of being on the fringe, rejecting the status quo, and comprising of a collective of students and instructors who marched to the beat of their own drum.

Forty years later, the program's classroom still draws heavily on the inspiration of the natural environment, and its grads now populate senior level industry positions across the province and beyond. The program has not only survived, but has thrived and evolved to become a vital component in the delivery of outdoor leadership and environmental education in BC, professionalizing the industry along the way.

And the culture of the program still remains true to its roots. Students who choose to study Outdoor Recreation Management today seek a career that embodies their passion and commitment to preserving a world that's precious and fragile. Outdoor Rec students have strong values and are action oriented. They want to be the change in the world.

The demand for qualified, well-trained professionals in the outdoor recreation field is expanding rapidly with the growth of nature-based and adventure tourism. Over 16 months, and through a unique curriculum combining classroom study, field expeditions and a practicum, students in the Outdoor Recreation Management program gain the skills, knowledge and attitude necessary to contribute to this exciting and challenging industry.

Careers cross a range of industries such as adventure, community recreation, parks and conservation, tourism, and experiential education. Students study a diverse range of subjects including: environmental stewardship, entrepreneurship, events management, tourism marketing, adventure and eco-tourism and more. Outdoor Recreation Management students may also apply their credits towards Capilano University's Tourism Management Degree program.

Click here to learn more about Outdoor Recreation Management at Capilano University.

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