Graduate Diploma in Sustainability and Outdoor Education
Advance your professional development in sustainability and outdoor education.
This one-year full time graduate programme combines theory and practice for advanced professional development for established teachers, outdoor educators and instructors or retraining opportunities for graduates of other degrees.
The programme consists of a mixture of compulsory and elective courses, some of which can done by distance learning. You will learn how to implement sustainable practice, journey-based environmental science, contemporary issues in sustainability and outdoor education, resource management, practical skill development and instruction and a course that focuses on the topic of your choosing. This allows you to maintain a broad base to your study, complemented by elective practical and theory courses that develop your personal interests and strengths.
You will be required to participate in a number of field trips to locations outside Christchurch and off campus. Personal clothing and equipment are required and a list will be provided on request. Specialist equipment is provided.
Please check with programme leader for course availability.
Applicants for this programme must already hold a Bachelor Degree.
Part-time up to 3 years.
Fees for 2024
Fees for 2025
A Bachelor's degree
- Or appropriate, documented and verifiable evidence (including references) of relevant work or other experience, equivalent to three years full time in the outdoor education instruction or similar area.
In addition you need to:
Hold a current two-day Comprehensive First Aid Certificate. First Aid training can be completed through any authorised provider.
Consent to Disclosure of Information:
- Applicants will be required to complete a New Zealand Police Consent to Disclosure of Information form depending on your placement.
- The form will be sent to the Police Licensing and Vetting Service, and returned in confidence to the Head of Department. Information on the NZ Police Vetting Service is available from the New Zealand Police website.
What if English is not my first Language?
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
- IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
- What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
- You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.
Overall IELTS 6.0 Academic
- 5.5 Listening
- 5.5 Reading
- 5.5 Writing
- 5.5 Speaking
Funding assistance
If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.
Find out moreCareer opportunities
On successful completion of this programme you will be able to return to your employment with an enhanced understanding of contemporary practice; or seek new opportunities teaching social studies and outdoor education. Work in the fields of outdoor instruction, environmental education, adventure or eco-tourism, community health, recreation and conservation are also open to you with this graduate diploma.
Study pathways
You could further your studies with postgraduate programmes such a Master's degree.
Recommended school subjects
- English
- Mathematics
- Physical education
- Biology
- Geography
- Social Studies
Graduate Diploma in Sustainability and Outdoor Education
Advance your professional development in sustainability and outdoor education.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Graduate Certificate / Diploma |
| Code | CH4032 |
| Next Starts | February 2025 |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| International application close date | 19 Dec |
| Credits | 120 |
| Level | 7 |
| Additional Equipment/Fees | Advised before enrolment |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| Available Part time | Yes |
| May be eligible for Fees Free? | Yes |
| Reference | CH4032-STRU |
Fees for 2024
Fees for 2025
With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…
MoreAdditional Entry Requirements
In addition you need to:
Hold a current two-day Comprehensive First Aid Certificate. First Aid training can be completed through any authorised provider.
Consent to Disclosure of Information:
- Applicants will be required to complete a New Zealand Police Consent to Disclosure of Information form depending on your placement.
- The form will be sent to the Police Licensing and Vetting Service, and returned in confidence to the Head of Department. Information on the NZ Police Vetting Service is available from the New Zealand Police website.
Credit Recognition
If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.
Find out moreDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 426 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 363 KB
Area of Interest
Need some help picking the right course for you?
Send us an enquiry or book a tour and experience Ara for yourself!