Adventure Guide Diploma

The Adventure Guide Diploma is a fast-paced, two-year course of study comprised of field trips, outdoor skills instruction, and self-directed expeditions. Courses cover a wide range of adventure activities and theoretical topics. Field trips make up 60 percent of the course load.

This 60-credit diploma is made up of 36 required credits and 24 elective credits. The diploma transfers into Adventure Studies concentrations in the Bachelor of Tourism Management degree (BTM) or the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies (BIS) degree for students who wish to complete a degree.

The Adventure Guide Diploma is a well recognized credential for those who wish to go directly into employment in the adventure tourism industry. The private sector is a major supporter of this program through training, certifying, and helping students build a network for future employment. Graduates work as outdoor skills instructors, mountain or river guides, and in other wilderness-related leadership occupations.

Areas of study

The Adventure Guide Diploma builds upon the technical skills and leadership within each of the activities achieved in the first year of study. Students will develop focus and refinement within their areas of interest, while having the option to add new technical skill areas as well. Areas study by activity type include:

• Hiking
• Rock Climbing
• Ice Climbing
• Mountaineering
• Ski Touring and Avalanche Education
• Rope Rescue
• Expedition Skill Development
• Canoeing
• Sea Kayaking
• White Water Rafting
• White Water Kayaking
• Swift Water Rescue
• Surfing

Program structure

Students apply to complete the Adventure Guide Diploma after they complete the Adventure Guide Certificate. Completing a second year at the Adventure Studies Department the Adventure Guide Diploma provides students with a solid foundation in adventure activities and adventure industry experience. Compressed, modularized classroom course instruction complements the seasonal field activities. Theory courses include the following:

Requirements

Completion of the Adventure Guide Certificate. 

Application to Adventure Guide Diploma including:

• Cover letter expressing intent
• Summer work/practicum plans 
• Outdoor Experience Log
• Revision of Certificate transcripts and GPA

Note: Admission to the Adventure Guide Diploma is competitive and based on technical skill and experience level. Applications are screened to ensure an adequate level of skill and experience.