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 he/she needs 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 )