Outdoor studies (friluftsliv)
See study programmeThe one-year programme in Outdoor Studies is for those who want to develop better knowledge and skills in outdoor life and outdoor activities. These include glacier hiking, kayaking and canoeing, climbing and winter pursuits. Lofoten, Svartisen glacier, Hamarøy and Beiar/Saltfjellet provide good framework conditions for practical learning. The programme of study also provides an introduction to educational and social science perspectives on outdoor life. Together with the practical learning, this will help enable students to plan, implement and assess outdoor activities for relevant target groups, and view the phenomenon of outdoor life in a larger societal context.
After successfully completing the programme of study, students will have achieved the following learning outcomes:
Knowledge
Candidates will:
- Have basic knowledge related to relevant outdoor activities
- Have basic knowledge about outdoor life from a safety perspective
- Have basic knowledge about outdoor education, outdoor life guidance, use of outdoor activities as educational tools, and groups and group processes.
- Have insight into environmental philosophy, outdoor life as a phenomenon, the history and traditions of outdoor life, and the roles and importance of outdoor life in Norwegian society. As a result, the aim is for students to view outdoor life in a larger societal context.
- Have basic knowledge about nature management, the commercialisation of outdoor life and nature-based tourism.
Skills
Candidates will:
- Have basic skills in relevant outdoor activities in different natural categories and seasons
- Master basic techniques in relevant outdoor activities
- Be able to plan, implement and assess outdoor activities for relevant target groups
- Be able to reflect on the educational and societal perspectives of outdoor life
- Ensure safety when taking part in outdoor activities
- Be able to act as a member of a group and contribute to the group’s development
General competence
Candidates will:
- Have insight into the relationship between good personal skills, knowledge and energy levels, and the importance of this regarding safe outdoor activities
- Have insight into how one can use outdoor life as an educational tool and the opportunities this provides in relation to learning and development
- Have insight into the ethical dilemmas associated with outdoor trips and the use of nature
- Be able to view the knowledge and skills in context, and use a combination of these in practical situations
Admission to the programme of study requires Higher Education Entrance Qualifications.
A certificate or good conduct from the police (Childcare Certificate of Conduct) is required.
Combined with other relevant subjects, the programme of study provides expertise in outdoor life within the school system, public administration, NGOs, the travel and tourism industry, healthcare, rehabilitation and social work, or in the private sector.
For example, you can use the programme of study in an elective bachelor’s degree in outdoor life, which in turn may qualify candidates for admission to the Science in Physical Education master’s programme at Nord University, Levanger.
30 credits may be incorporated in primary and lower secondary school teacher education as a relevant school subject.
Read more about student exchange opportunities here
semester registration fee and syllabus literature.
During the programme of study, students are expected to cover expenses regarding necessary training and outdoor equipment. The distinctive character of the programme requires the use of various practical learning arenas. Therefore, students are also expected to cover transport expenses to and from the practical learning arenas at study locations defined as the municipality. Students are responsible for transport to practical learning arenas in the municipality (campus). The faculty’s arrangements for reimbursement of transport expenses apply to teaching that takes place outside the campus/municipality.
Assessment and grading are based on grades A to F, where A is the best grade and F is a fail. Work may also be assessed as pass/fail or approved/not approved.
Please see the applicable laws, regulations and guidelines
Examinations and forms of assessment
Coursework and forms of assessment can be found in the individual course description.
The programme of study is annually evaluated by students through course surveys and by the programme coordinator. These evaluations are part of the University’s quality assurance system.
Please see the applicable regulations and associated guidelines.