PKMT 230 - Outdoor Adventure Program Management

4 Credits: (3 lecture, 2 lab)

Course Description
This course introduces students to design, lead, and manage outdoor adventure programs. Topics include program planning, risk management, group leadership, staff supervision, equipment selection, outdoor skills, and Leave-No-Trace ethics. Students apply knowledge through hands-on field exercises, including overnight trips, emphasizing safety and professional practices.

Note Spring semester only. 

Text
Blanchard, Jim; Strong, Michael; Ford, Phyllis. Leadership and Administration of Outdoor Pursuits, 3rd ed. State College: Venture Publishing, Inc., 2007.

Objectives
The student will be able to:

A. Analyze the structure, organization, and effectiveness of outdoor adventure programs.
B. Apply risk management and safety principles to outdoor program planning.
C. Create logistical plans for outdoor adventure programs.
D. Manage equipment, clothing, and resources for safe outdoor activities.
E. Organize group-based outdoor programs demonstrating professional leadership and teamwork.
F. Develop marketing and promotional strategies, including digital and social media, for      programs.
G. Evaluate program outcomes to guide future planning and improvements.

Content
A. Outdoor adventure industry standards and professional practices
B. Leave-No-Trace ethics and environmental stewardship
C. Core outdoor skills for safe and effective field-based programs
D. Program planning, logistics, and design
E. Equipment, clothing, and resource management
F. Risk management and safety procedures
G. Staff selection, training, and supervision
H. Group leadership and team management techniques
I. Marketing, promotion, and digital communication
J. Program assessment and reflection

Student Evaluation
A- G student evaluation will be tests, assignments and field exercises.