Diploma in Outdoor and Adventure Education
Prepare for an adventurous career in the outdoors.
This programme has been designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge the industry requires to meet increasing demand for outdoor leaders and guides, and to prepare you for a varied, rewarding and adventurous career.
Learning from some of the most qualified educators and instructors in the country you'll become technically competent in a range of outdoor pursuits including sea kayaking, rock climbing, bush walking and mountain biking. You'll gain skills in leadership, sustainability and environmental education, supervision and instruction. You'll also learn how to plan, prepare, instruct and guide participants in a range of outdoor activities while maintaining safe, ethical and professional practice in familiar an unfamiliar outdoor environments. This will include assessing and managing emergency care situations in isolated locations.
During your studies you'll gain an understanding and respect for the tikanga and kawa of local iwi and/or hapū and other cultural groups while operating in a range of outdoor contexts.
You'll learn through a mix of group tutorials, practical outdoor activities, field trips, online learning and work-integrated experiences. The latter includes opportunities to lead clients - e.g. secondary school students and individuals with disabilities - in outdoor activities, giving you real-world workplace experience.
Please note: to participate in this programme and complete it successfully, it’s important that you’re able to swim at least 50m, ride a bike and carry a full overnight hiking pack on multi-day trips.
Fees for 2024
Fees for 2025
New Zealand Certificate in Outdoor and Adventure Education (Multi-skilled) (Level 4)
In addition you need to:
Declare any convictions against the law prior to starting the programmes and complete sections 2 and 3 of the New Zealand Police Vetting Service Request and Consent Form.
- Be capable of swimming a minimum of 50 metres, be able to carry a full overnight tramping pack on multi day trips and ride a bicycle.
- You will need access to all personal equipment and clothing for activities (recommended list provided to applicants).
- Hold a current two-day Comprehensive First Aid Certificate. First Aid training can be completed through any authorised provider.
Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
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.
- What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
- You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.
Overall IELTS 5.5 Academic
- 5.0 Listening
- 5.0 Reading
- 5.0 Writing
- 5.0 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
Employment opportunities for qualified outdoor instructors and guides are growing as tourist numbers increase. This nationally recognised qualification includes a variety of embedded industry awards (in rock and abseil, sea kayaking, mountain biking and white water kayaking) ensuring a broad range of career opportunities for you as a graduate.
Study pathways
On completion of this programme you can progress to a Bachelor of Sustainability and Outdoor Education.
Recommended school subjects
- English
- Maths
- Physical Education
- Biology
- Social Studies
- Outdoor Education
New Zealand Diploma in Outdoor and Adventure Education (Multi-skilled)
Prepare for an adventurous career in the outdoors.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Diploma |
| Code | NZ3766 |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| Credits | 120 |
| Level | 5 |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| Available Part time | Yes |
| May be eligible for Fees Free? | Yes |
| Reference | NZ3766-STRU |
Fees for 2024
Fees for 2025
Placements or workplace assignments are an integral part of this programme. You don’t need to supply evidence of your Covid vaccination status to apply for or to study this programme but please be aware that some workplaces may require evidence from you that you are fully vaccinated for Covid before allowing you to complete work at their organisation. The number of organisations at which your placement or workplace assignment can be completed may be impacted, depending on your vaccination status.
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:
Declare any convictions against the law prior to starting the programmes and complete sections 2 and 3 of the New Zealand Police Vetting Service Request and Consent Form.
- Be capable of swimming a minimum of 50 metres, be able to carry a full overnight tramping pack on multi day trips and ride a bicycle.
- You will need access to all personal equipment and clothing for activities (recommended list provided to applicants).
- Hold a current two-day Comprehensive First Aid Certificate. First Aid training can be completed through any authorised provider.
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
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