CIP 31.0301
Degree: Career Studies Certificate
Program Code: 221-459-02
Program Length: 1 Semester
Minimum Credits: 10
Visit the Adventure Tourism & Outdoor Recreation Website.

Program Advisor
Michael Brown
276.964.7703
Davis Hall Room 238

Purpose: The Career Studies Certificate in Guide Essentials prepares students to lead outdoor excursions for a variety of outdoor recreation activities and events. The courses provide the student with the skills they need to be successful working for an outfitter, adventure camp, national, state or local Parks, or other recreational venue. This program is an add-on stackable credential that complements and builds on an individual’s previous education and work experience, enhancing their skill set.

Occupational Objectives:

• Guide
• Outfitter
• Adventure Leader
• Trip Leader
• Camp Counselor
• Summer Camp Instructor

Admission Requirements: Students must meet the general admission requirements established by the College.

Program Requirements: The Guide Essentials program is designed to prepare students to be outdoor leaders. Course work will include the following: adventure excursion planning, Leave No Trace best practices, protection and preservation of natural resources, basic principles of first-aid and CPR in a remote setting, leadership, and problem solving to maximize health and safety and minimize environmental impact leading participants to a quality outdoor experience. Participants have the opportunity to earn Leave No Trace Trainer, First Aid/CPR/AED, and Wilderness & Remote First Aid credentials.

Program Objectives

At the conclusion of the Guide Essentials program, the graduate will be able to:

•  State a philosophy of recreation, use of natural resources and impact recreation activities have on the natural resources and watershed. (RPK 100 , RPK 140 )
• Prepare for a wilderness excursion for both planned and unplanned experiences. (RPK 103 )
• Market adventure tourism and outdoor recreation related activities. (RPK 100 )
• Protect the outdoor environment when implementing outdoor programming by following principles of Leave No Trace. RPK 140 )
• Perform basic First-Aid and CPR and stabilize a patient when help is more than 30 minutes away. (RPK 160 )
• Provide leadership for tourism and recreation related projects and events. (RPK 103 , RPK 141 )
• Design and implement outdoor recreation programming for specific target audiences. (RPK 140 )
• Demonstrate knowledge of outdoor recreational skills and activities. (RPK 140 , RPK 141 )
• Analyze scenario situations related to be a trip leader and apply problem solving skills to maximize health and safety and minimize environmental impact. (RPK 103 , RPK 140 , RPK 141 , RPK 160 )