The Certificate in Outdoor Recreation and Experiential Leadership introduces students to a variety
of outdoor adventure activities such as backpacking, rock climbing, canoeing,
kayaking, and challenge course facilitation. This cross-disciplinary initiative
combines the resources and services of the School of Recreation, Health,
and Tourism, Mason's Center for Teambuilding and Organizational Learning (the EDGE), and New Century College.
All students must complete a total of 25 credits in the certificate program. The breakdown of required core and elective coursework is outlined below. At least 15 credits must be completed at George Mason University. Any coursework completed at another institution must be approved for transfer by the School of Recreation, Health, and Tourism. Coursework can be completed while pursuing a degree and is open to students majoring in all disciplines.
Becoming an outdoor leader is for those individuals who are interested in exploring, guiding, and facilitating experiences for individuals in the outdoors. The Certificate in Outdoor Recreation and Experiential Leadership coursework focuses on hard (technical) and soft (theory) skills learned experientially while participating in the outdoor curriculum.
Students have options to attain certification as low and high element facilitators and Wilderness First Responders. Students completing the certificate requirements will be fully prepared to work as challenge course facilitators, work as outdoor adventure instructors at Outdoor Education/Adventure Education organizations, and effectively integrate outdoor experiential programs with existing educational curricula.
Dr. Brenda Wiggins
Academic Program Coordinator- Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies
703-993-2068
bwiggins@gmu.edu