Adventure Tourism and Guiding (Level 5)

Program Overview

The Adventure Tourism and Guiding program at NMIT equips individuals with the skills and certifications to become outdoor adventure guides. Through hands-on learning and industry partnerships, students develop advanced abilities in activities like rafting, kayaking, and rock climbing. The program emphasizes personal growth, teamwork, and risk management, preparing graduates for careers in outdoor recreation and education.

Program Outline

Adventure Tourism and Guiding (Level 5) at Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT)

Degree Overview

The program emphasizes real-world learning through industry partnerships, equipping graduates with industry-recognized certifications in chosen specializations.

Objectives

• Develop advanced skills in various adventure activities like whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking, rock climbing, and canyoning.
• Enhance personal and professional skills, including personal growth, teamwork, confidence, and risk management.
• Gain industry-recognized certificates in chosen areas of specialization.

Program Description

This program boasts an emphasis on practical learning, with over 80% of the program taking place in the field. Students benefit from collaboration with reputable adventure operators, gaining valuable real-world experience and connections within the industry. The program's location in Nelson proves ideal, offering the advantage of being close to three national parks, renowned rivers, ski fields, and caves, providing students with a natural classroom at their doorstep.

Course Duration:

40 weeks full-time (including 6 weeks of study break)

Course Credits:

120

Outline

The program consists of eight 15-credit courses. These courses cover various aspects of adventure tourism and guiding, with a strong focus on practical application.

Sample Courses:

• Outdoor Adventure Leadership
• Sustainable Practices in the Outdoors Toitῡ Te Whenua
• Outdoor Adventure Industry Practice
• Advanced Canyoning and Rock Climbing
• Advanced Skiing and Snowboarding
• Advanced Sea Kayaking
• Advanced Rafting
Each course includes a combination of on-campus classes and multi-day expeditions and teaching trips.

Assessment

Assessment methods vary depending on the course. They may include:

• Assignments: These may involve written reports, presentations, or practical demonstrations.
• Exams: Some courses may include written or practical exams.
• Practical Performance: Students will be assessed on their practical skills in various outdoor activities.

Teaching

The program benefits from qualified and experienced tutors, including Lisa Cooper, Andy Fullerton, Sam Russek, and Mark Parfitt, all specialists in various outdoor adventure activities. The program adopts an innovative approach to learning, blending classroom instruction with practical experience in the field.

Careers

This program prepares graduates for various career paths within the adventure tourism industry, including:

• Outdoor Recreation Guide or Instructor: Specializing in areas such as rafting, sea kayaking, hiking, skiing, snowboarding, rock climbing, and canyoning.
• Outdoor Educator: Designing and delivering educational programs in outdoor environments.

Other

• The program offers students opportunities for industry practice through work placements.
• The program requires students to meet specific fitness requirements.
• Students are responsible for covering the costs of textbooks, general equipment, and personal gear.

Fees

• 2024 Fees: $8,976 plus $246 Student Services Levy

Entry Requirements

• Completion of the Level 4 Certificate in Outdoor and Adventure Education (Multi-skilled).
• Relevant experience and knowledge may also be considered.

Application Process

Interested applicants can apply online or contact the Adventure Tourism and Guiding team for more information.