The outdoor adventure education concentration in the physical education major is designed to provide students with an opportunity to gain experience and knowledge in outdoor adventure education appropriate for physical education settings. This program prepares students in adventure models and theory as well as develops leadership and practical skills needed to effectively implement this type of curriculum in schools.

Practical experiences include, but are not limited to, inclusive outdoor education, practicum in adventure activities or outdoor adventure activities for teachers, and several outdoor activity classes.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

1. Identify and apply discipline-specific scientific and theoretical concepts critical to the development of physically educated individuals.
2. Demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to demonstrate competent movement performance and health enhancing levels of fitness as delineated in the NASPE K - 12 Standards.
3. Plan and implement developmentally appropriate learning experiences aligned with local, state, and national standards to address the diverse needs of all students.
4. Demonstrate effective communication and pedagogical skills and strategies to enhance student engagement and learning.
5. Apply assessments and reflection to foster student learning and inform instructional decisions.

Career Potential

• K-12 physical education teacher focusing on outdoor and adventure education
• Educator at an outdoor center
• Educator at an environmental center
• Trip leader for outdoor programs such as Outward Bound and National Outdoor Leadership School

Program Requirements

Students must fulfill all the requirements for the Physical Education [PEM]  major. Additional courses required for the outdoor adventure education concentration are listed below.