MA Outdoor and Experiential Learning

The University of Cumbria’s MA Outdoor and Experiential Learning is a unique postgraduate program designed for educators, outdoor practitioners, and leaders who are passionate about transformative learning experiences. This program emphasizes the integration of outdoor education with experiential learning theory, equipping students with the skills to design, implement, and evaluate programs that foster personal, social, and environmental development. The MA encourages reflective practice, innovation, and critical thinking, enabling graduates to become influential practitioners in educational, recreational, and organizational settings. The University’s scenic Cumbria campuses, surrounded by the Lake District National Park, provide an inspiring environment that complements the program’s outdoor-focused pedagogy.

Curriculum: The curriculum combines theoretical frameworks with practical application, ensuring a balance between academic rigor and experiential practice. Core modules typically include Experiential Learning Theory, Outdoor Leadership and Pedagogy, Programme Design and Evaluation, and Environmental Education and Sustainability. Students also engage in a research dissertation or applied project, allowing them to investigate a specific aspect of outdoor learning or leadership in real-world contexts. Flexible delivery modes, including blended learning and field-based sessions, support students in applying theory directly to practice while developing professional competencies.

Research Focus: The program emphasizes research that informs practice in outdoor and experiential learning. Students explore topics such as leadership development, environmental stewardship, risk management, wellbeing through outdoor experiences, and the impact of experiential learning on diverse populations. The University of Cumbria supports research that is both applied and innovative, encouraging students to contribute knowledge that influences policy, practice, and the wider outdoor education sector.

Industry Engagement: MA students benefit from strong connections with local and national organizations, outdoor education providers, schools, and community groups. Collaborative projects, internships, and fieldwork opportunities allow students to gain hands-on experience and develop networks that are essential for career advancement. Industry experts frequently contribute to workshops, seminars, and guest lectures, ensuring that learning is closely aligned with current professional standards and real-world challenges.

Global Perspective: While rooted in the UK context, the MA program promotes a global understanding of outdoor and experiential learning. Students explore international models of outdoor education, cross-cultural leadership practices, and global environmental issues, preparing them to operate effectively in diverse cultural and organizational settings. This global outlook enhances graduates’ ability to design inclusive, culturally responsive programs and positions them as leaders in the expanding field of outdoor and experiential education worldwide.

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 65% or equivalent.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80.
• Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

The University of Cumbria offers a range of scholarships designed to support international students in making their higher education journey more affordable and accessible. These scholarships reward academic excellence, encourage diversity, and help reduce the financial burden of tuition fees.

Merit-Based Scholarships: The University of Cumbria offers merit-based scholarships for international students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance in their previous studies. These awards often cover a percentage of tuition fees, allowing students to focus on their education without financial stress.

International Excellence Scholarship: This scholarship is aimed at high-achieving international students enrolling in full-time degree programs. It provides a significant fee discount and is awarded based on academic merit, leadership potential, and motivation to succeed.

Early Payment Discount: International students who pay their tuition fees in full before the start of their program may be eligible for an early payment discount. This helps students save on overall costs and plan their finances efficiently.

Graduates of the MA Outdoor and Experiential Learning program at the University of Cumbria are well-equipped to pursue diverse careers across education, leadership, outdoor adventure, and community development. 

Outdoor Education Leader: Professionals in this role design, deliver, and evaluate educational programs in outdoor environments, such as national parks, adventure centers, and educational camps, fostering personal development and environmental awareness among participants.

Experiential Learning Facilitator: Facilitators specialize in immersive learning experiences, often within schools, universities, or corporate settings, using hands-on activities to develop skills such as teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving.

Adventure Tourism Manager: Graduates can manage adventure tourism operations, coordinating outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, climbing, and expedition programs while ensuring safety, sustainability, and high-quality customer experiences.

Environmental Education Officer: This role focuses on raising environmental awareness and promoting sustainability through outdoor learning initiatives, workshops, and community engagement projects, often within NGOs or government agencies.

Wilderness Therapy Practitioner: Using outdoor experiences for therapeutic purposes, these practitioners work with individuals or groups to address personal challenges, mental health issues, or behavioural development through structured outdoor programs.

School or University Outdoor Learning Coordinator: Graduates can lead outdoor education programs within educational institutions, integrating experiential learning into curricula and supporting teachers with program development and assessment.

Corporate Team-Building Consultant: Applying principles of experiential learning, these professionals design outdoor-based team-building activities and leadership development programs for businesses, enhancing collaboration, problem-solving, and organizational culture.

Youth and Community Engagement Officer: Working with youth organizations, community centers, and social programs, graduates facilitate outdoor learning activities that promote social inclusion, confidence, and life skills among diverse populations.

Researcher in Outdoor and Experiential Education: Graduates with strong research skills can contribute to the academic field by investigating innovative teaching methods, leadership strategies, and the impact of outdoor education on physical, social, and emotional development.

Outdoor Program Designer and Consultant: Professionals in this field create, evaluate, and advise on experiential learning programs for schools, adventure centers, and recreational organizations, ensuring best practices in pedagogy, safety, and environmental stewardship.