Introduction to Collegiate Outdoor Programs 101

Course Description

This virtual course explores the foundations of running meaningful outdoor recreation programs—from the theories and leadership philosophies that guide trips, to strategies for supervising and developing student staff, to practical steps for planning programs and managing resources. It also emphasizes the importance of risk management, helping professionals distinguish between perceived and actual risks, create comprehensive safety plans, and align their outdoor program offerings with industry standards. The four modules in the virtual course provide a holistic understanding of how outdoor recreation can connect to university missions, foster student growth, and deliver safe experiences of value.

Module Descriptions

The Professional Role & Student Development module explores the role that campus recreation professionals play in fostering both student and staff growth through outdoor programs. It highlights the history and mission of NIRSA, the value of professional networks, and the importance of aligning outdoor recreation initiatives with broader university goals. Key topics include student development strategies, communication, boundary setting, building staff buy-in, and providing opportunities for leadership and experiential learning. Presenters emphasize best practices while encouraging professionals to adapt them to fit their unique program needs.

The Principles of Outdoor Leadership module introduces foundational theories and models of leadership development in outdoor settings. The presenters explore concepts such as servant leadership, situational leadership theory, and the conditional outdoor leadership theory, while emphasizing vision, selflessness, and adaptability as key traits among effective leaders. Learners will take away a guide and a discussion starter for shaping departmental expectations and outdoor recreation leadership training.

The Outdoor Rec Programs module provides an overview of common programs offered through collegiate outdoor recreation. It covers outlining goals, defining target markets, and key operational considerations like equipment rentals, climbing walls, trips, bike shops, and ropes courses. The module emphasizes the flexibility of outdoor programs, noting that no single model fits all institutions. It provides tips to attendees on how to tailor their offerings to meet campus needs, available resources, and community interests.

The Risk Management module provides an overview of identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks related to outdoor recreation programs. It emphasizes that while risk cannot be fully eliminated, careful planning, communication, and training can significantly reduce it. Key topics include pre-trip planning, staff and participant communication, emergency response preparation, and the role of institutional policies and resources. The module serves as a practical guide for outdoor leaders to create safer and more effective experiences.

Check out the rest of our Recreation 101 lineup here.

Registration for any of these 101 courses includes a 25% discount coupon for any Campus Recreation Essentials book. Limit one use of discount coupon per course registration.

For Institutional Bundle Registrants: Included with the Bundle are 5 free registrations. For each additional after 5, there is a 65% savings over regular individual registration pricing. After the Bundle is purchased, you will be emailed 2 promo codes to be used to register your other attendees.