Program Overview

The Outdoor Education Minor combines study in both education and environmental studies to help prepare students interested in environmental education, adventure education, experiential education, and a variety of other outdoor and environment-related career fields. It is particularly recommended in conjunction with a major in Environmental Studies or Environmental Science though any major/minor combination is appropriate. Theoretical coursework includes courses on education and teaching, environmental philosophy and natural history. Practical field components include a variety of skill development experiences from team building and group facilitation work to adventure activities such as climbing to working in community gardens.

The Program features expeditionary-based learning programs and courses. Month-long courses in Utah and Canada (August Wilderness and May Terms), and shorter field courses provide students with opportunities for in-depth, intensive study combined with real, hands-on teaching and learning. 

Outdoor Education and the Liberal Arts Since 1971

The Outdoor Education program at Earlham is one of the oldest of its kind in the United States and has been mentioned in several books including Outward Bound USA: Crew Not Passengers (2002, published by The Mountaineers Press). The program aims to develop critical, socially aware outdoor educators in the true spirit of the liberal arts. More than the simple acquisition of technical skills and know-how, Earlham's program has a well deserved reputation for developing thoughtful outdoor leaders capable of working in diverse group environments. We have an excellent placement record with Outward Bound, the National Outdoor Leadership School, and many other outdoor and environmental organizations. Graduates have gone on to careers in environmental education, park management, wilderness guiding and youth social work.