Outdoor Education

Some will remember, no doubt, not only that they went to the college, but that they went to the mountain. - Henry David Thoreau

In these times of increasing cultural disconnection of humans from nature, the Sterling College Outdoor Education major invites full participation with the natural and human landscapes through applied learning theory, adventure and environmental programming, and leadership development.  Using experience as an essential theme, outdoor education classes emphasize place-based learning and inspire students to develop technical, leadership, and facilitation skills as well as a sound understanding of learning theory.  Students will find themselves visiting a Waldorf school, writing risk assessments, canoeing local whitewater rivers, instructing groups on the Challenge Course, and designing and running an after-school program. Students quickly learn that paddles as well as pencils are vital to keeping afloat at Sterling and making a mark on the world.  Outdoor education graduates are ready to reconnect people with the natural world whether through rock climbing, public or private education, environmental advocacy, or nature-based education.