Bachelor of Sustainability and Outdoor Education
Become an emerging leader in sustainability and outdoor education.
The Bachelor of Sustainability and Outdoor Education is the only outdoor education degree in New Zealand that includes 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 is a broad degree that allows you to tailor your learning to meet the needs of a variety of career aspirations including 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 flora and fauna and consider social geography with the human influences and impacts on our environment including how decisions on land use are made. 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. These are mixed with elective theory and practical courses to foster your personal strengths and interests. Elective course options include climate change, adventure therapy, Māori studies and cultural learning as well as adventure pursuits like rock climbing and ropes courses, white water and sea kayaking, surfing and stand-up paddle boarding.
During your degree, you can further enhance your employment opportunities by gaining industry awards e.g. New Zealand Outdoor Instructors Association Leader Awards and Surfers Rescue 24/7 from Surf Lifesaving and Surfing New Zealand.
Please note: You’ll participate in field trips off-campus and outside of Christchurch. Specialist equipment is provided, however personal clothing and equipment are necessary.
Fees for 2022
Fees for 2023
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)
OR New Zealand Certificate in Outdoor and Adventure Education (Multi-skilled) (Level 4) or equivalent
OR New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 4) Ara Outdoor Education Pathway or equivalent
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:
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.
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 | February 2023 |
| 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 2022
Fees for 2023
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, 325 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 243 KB
- Sustainability Outdoor Ed Additional Requirements PDF, 54 KB
Area of Interest
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