Bachelor of Sustainability and Outdoor Education
Become an emerging leader in sustainability and outdoor education.
This is the only outdoor education degree in New Zealand to include sustainability as a major component. It provides a unique combination of theory and practice to ensure you graduate with a sound understanding of contemporary social and cultural issues, geography and sustainability, and a proven capability in outdoor education. It’s a broad degree that you can tailor to meet your specific career aspirations e.g. teaching, conservation, outdoor instruction and guiding.
During your studies, you’ll engage with the natural landscape to develop an in-depth understanding of sustainability, and what it means to our society now and for the future. You’ll explore the environment and consider human influences and impacts. You’ll also develop your inter-personal skills and learn effective methods for teaching, guiding and helping other people to engage with and respect our spectacular natural environment.
Essential studies include health and wellness, geography, environmental science, professional practices, leadership and safety. Elective theory and practical courses will foster your strengths and interests. Elective course options include climate change, adventure therapy, Māori studies and cultural learning, and adventure pursuits like rock climbing and ropes courses, white water and sea kayaking, surfing and stand-up paddle boarding (with industry awards available from NZ Outdoor Instructors Association and Surf Lifesaving and Surfing NZ).
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 2025
University Entrance: NCEA Level 3 (60 credits at level 3 and 20 credits at level 2 or higher) which must include 14 credits at Level 3 in each of three approved* subjects and:
- Literacy* - 10 credits at Level 2 or above, made up of 5 credits in reading, 5 credits in writing,
- Numeracy* - 10 credits at Level 1 or above (specified achievement standards, or unit standards 26623, 26626, 26627)
Due to Covid-19 disruption, if you studied and achieved NCEA Level 3 during 2020, you only need 12 credits per Level 3 subject (i.e. total of 36 credits). Literacy and Numeracy requirements remain the same
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
* NZQA approved subjects: see http://www.nzqa.govt.nz/qualifications-standards/awards/university-entrance/
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.
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.
Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.
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 degree you can seek work as an environmental educator, outdoor instructor, adventure or ecotourism guide, or take your skills into community health, recreation or conservation.
Study pathways
You can continue your studies and enter graduate teacher training, specialising in social studies, health and outdoor education. You can also continue on to Masters study.
Recommended school subjects
- English
- Mathematics
- Physical Education
- Biology
- Geography
- Social Studies
Bachelor of Sustainability and Outdoor Education
Become an emerging leader in sustainability and outdoor education.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Degree |
| Code | CH4025 |
| Next Starts | July 2025 |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| International application close date | 6 January for February start; 2 June for July start |
| Credits | 360 |
| 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 | CH4025-STRU |
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:
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, 427 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 358 KB
Area of Interest
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