Our Programmes

Certificate in Outdoor Recreation
Diploma in Outdoor Instruction and Management (level 5)
Diploma in Outdoor Education

What will the programme cover?

This is a very industry focused programme, ensuring good employment opportunities and quality staff for employers. You’ll cover a mix of practical and theoretical topics including rock, mountain, kayak, guiding, outdoor first-aid, as well as education (years 2 & 3) and business papers. Students who complete the Diploma in Outdoor Education will also gain the National Diploma in Adult Education and Training. These qualifications can lead on to a Bachelor of Education (Adult Education) from Massey University (approximately another 18 months). As well as NZOIA awards, most students also take the opportunity to complete their bus driving licence, wilderness pre-hospital care and many other optional courses provided by Aoraki. For more, see the Programme Structure and Timetables.

The Diploma in Outdoor Education can be completed in three stages.

Once you’ve successfully completed year one you’ll end up with a Certificate in Outdoor Recreation. Year two results in the Diploma in Outdoor Instruction and Management (level 5). Finally, successful completion of the third year will give you the Diploma in Outdoor Education and the National Diploma in Adult Education and Training.

The year one Certificate in Outdoor Recreation comprises 50% theory and 50% practical. The programme is experiential in approach, with a strong emphasis on sound teamwork and honest reflection on experiences.

The year two  is the Diploma in Outdoor Instruction and Management (level 5) is more in depth, with in excess of more than 100 hours practical time undertaken in each outdoor pursuit, with a 60/40 per cent ratio of personal skills to instructional opportunities. You’ll complete a blend of practical and theoretical work throughout the year and be taught by some of New Zealand's top outdoor instructors.

Year three of the requires a commitment to a career in the outdoors and involves a mix of business and adult teaching papers and further progress towards the NZOIA instructor scheme awards. Students work independently on research projects and are responsible for organising and instructing certain components of the Certificate programme.  Students graduate with the Diploma in Outdoor Education.

Course Dates:

Starts on the first Monday in February, finishes November. For more see the timetables.

Course Structure:

Each year course is 34 weeks full-time.

What are the entry requirements?

Entry to the programme is limited and quality is a priority. Students should be physically fit and have a strong interest in outdoor activities.
Entry to the second year is not automatic on passing year one, and will depend on the student's maturity levels.

Direct Entry to year two is possible depending on your prior experience. This needs to be supported by a logbook and CV.

Career Opportunities:

Job prospects are extensive in this rapidly expanding industry whether it be in New Zealand or overseas as outdoor instructors, educators, leaders or managers.

What did it cost last year?

In 2008 the course fees were as follows:
Year 1 - $4345, and only $2385 for students given "free tuition fees".
Year 2 - $4445.
Year 3 - $4450.

There is also an additional charge of $200 for year 2 and year 3 mountain skills courses (in order to cover the helicopter and hut nights.
Please note this is indicative only and the cost may change.