Outdoor Education MSc

The course offers qualified graduates and suitably experienced professionals the opportunity to develop their academic knowledge, skills and qualifications.

The course combines theoretical study and work-based practice to consider contemporary issues and professional practice within Outdoor Education. Students are encouraged to adopt an interdisciplinary approach that draws on a broad range of sources, and to develop higher skills in critical analysis and evaluation.

Throughout the course, students are expected to enter into evidence-based critical debate about outdoor education, research into theory and professional practice and, ultimately, to synthesize these into a detailed and critical reflection within their Advanced Independent Study. A significant proportion of the programme is vocationally focused and student driven.

It is possible to achieve a named ‘International Award.’ In order to meet the criteria, students must complete their professional practice in an international setting and have an international focus to their Independent Study.

Factfile
Entry requirements
Course content
Student views

International MSc

In order to achieve an ‘International’ award, students must complete their Professional Practice in an international outdoor education setting and their Advanced Independent Study is required to have an ‘International’ Outdoor Education focus.

Study options

Full or part-time options
Choice of pathway
Opportunities to be awarded the title ‘International Masters’
Develop and demonstrate research and critical thinking
Continuing professional development
Flexible modular scheme means you can study at your own pace

Get in touch

Colin Wood
01905 852235
c.wood@worc.ac.uk

Admissions Office
01905 855111
admissions@worc.ac.uk

Entry requirements
Students will normally have a 2:1 classification in a sport related degree.
Students who hold a sport-related degree classification of either 2:2 (or below), or, a non-sport related degree will be considered on a case by case basis and may be required to submit a portfolio of evidence to demonstrate outdoor education experience.

If English is not your first language, you will be expected to have reached a sufficient standard on admission to the course (e.g. IELTS 6.5, with a minimum of 6.0 in each element).

Admissions procedures
All applicants will be interviewed.
Due to the nature of the programme, all students must complete a criminal records bureau enhanced disclosure check prior to the start of the course.

Mature Students
UW values diversity in its student body and applications from mature students are very welcome. Students with few or no formal qualifications should contact the Registry Admissions Office (01905 855111) or the Course Leader (01905 855270) with details of their age, any work undertaken, including caring or organised voluntary work, and any other relevant experience.

Accreditation of Prior Learning
Candidates with an acceptable academic background and/or relevant work experience may apply for Accreditation of prior learning (APL) and experience (APEL). It is advisable for candidates to discuss this with the Course Leader initially. The programmes follow the UW Policy for Accreditation of Prior Learning (2007).

Please contact the Registry Admissions Office for further information or guidance on 01905 855111.

Modules

Current Issues in Learning and Teaching in Outdoor Education
Theory and Context of Outdoor Education
Dissertation
Professional Practice
Leading and Managing People in Sport
Research Methods

Assessment

A wide variety of assignment methods are used, including written assignments, data handling assignments, case study, oral presentation, projects and Advanced Independent Study.

Academic department

Institute of Sport & Exercise Science

“We are proud of our strong reputation for sporting excellence. Our mission is to enhance the knowledge, skills and understanding of our students so they can continue to make a meaningful contribution to society at all levels.”
Mick Donovan, Head of Institute

Employability

The course is designed to offer qualified graduates and suitably experienced professionals the opportunity to develop their academic knowledge, skills and qualifications in order to enhance their personal career development in Outdoor Education and related fields. The Masters also provides a platform to other research/higher degrees in sport and promotion in other professional organisations.