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Best Colleges and Universities in the World for Outdoor Education

Matthew Lynch
Worlds Best Colleges and Universities

With the rise of technology and urbanization, it has become more crucial than ever to reconnect with nature. Outdoor education is an excellent way to do this, and many educational institutions are incorporating outdoor learning into their educational curriculums. In this article, we will be discussing the best colleges and universities in the world for outdoor education.

1. National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS)

Founded in 1965, NOLS is the world’s leading provider of wilderness education. NOLS offers field-based education in some of the most spectacular locations worldwide, from the Rocky Mountains to Patagonia. NOLS curriculum includes leadership, decision making, and outdoor skills such as camping and navigation.

2. Prescott College

Located in Arizona, Prescott is a small, private liberal arts college that emphasizes environmental sustainability and outdoor education. Prescott College has campuses in Arizona and Mexico, and the curriculum integrates the outdoors into the learning experience.

3. University of Alaska Fairbanks

The University of Alaska Fairbanks provides a unique opportunity for students to explore the Alaskan wilderness while gaining a higher education. The curriculum includes outdoor skills, such as wilderness survival and natural history, wildlife ecology, and Northern skills for outdoor professionals.

4. University of Montana

The University of Montana is home to the Wilderness Institute, which offers both undergraduate and graduate programs based on environmental studies and outdoor education. The curriculum includes disciplines ranging from natural resources to wilderness studies, as well as extensive outdoor trips.

5. Sterling College

Sterling College is located in Vermont and offers a range of outdoor-oriented academic programs. The curriculum focuses on environmental sustainability, conservation, and outdoor education. Sterling’s campus includes over 1300 acres of the wilderness study area.

6. Colorado College

Colorado College provides a unique Block Plan, where students take one class at a time during intense three-and-a-half week blocks. Outdoor-oriented classes include outdoor leadership, mountaineering, and backpacking. The college is located in the Rocky Mountains and has a beautiful campus, providing students with plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors.

7. Green Mountain College

Green Mountain College, located in Vermont, has an extensive outdoor-centered curriculum. The curriculum includes programs such as adventure education, environmental science, and teaching programs which integrates outdoor education into the learning experience.

8. Western State Colorado University

Western State Colorado University, located in Gunnison, Colorado, is situated in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. It offers unique outdoor-oriented programs like mountain sports and outdoor leadership. The college also provides opportunities for students to work with national parks and Forest Services to gain field experience.

9. Sterling College

Sterling college is located in northern Europe and focuses on sustainable living, which encompasses outdoor experiences. The School offers students programs like ecology, environmental security and outdoor education.

In conclusion, every institution provides students with the perfect learning experience that blends the knowledge of the natural environment with indoor education. Such programs are ideal in ensuring an equitable balance between physical, mental, and emotional well-being to help students connect with nature.