Trailblazing New Pathways: Program Innovations to Empower the Next Generation of Outdoor Recreation Leaders

As another successful semester comes to a close, I am excited to share some impactful changes to our program that will enhance the learning experience of both our current and incoming students.

New Master’s Degree Pathway 

While a hallmark of the master’s in Outdoor Recreation Economy program has always been its flexible design—enabling our students to tailor their coursework to their career goals—they can now take even greater ownership of their education and the material they want to learn. 

Previously, the pathway to a master’s degree required stacking three certificates from five available. Recognizing our students' desire for broader access to courses, we are pleased to announce that—in addition to the option of stacking three certificates to complete a degree—students can now choose to complete two certificates and four individual courses from any of the Outdoor Recreation Economy certificates to earn their master’s degree. 

This new structure allows our students to gain expertise on the topics that matter most to them while also giving them the freedom to explore other areas of interest—all while still progressing toward their master’s degree. 

No matter which degree pathway an individual might choose, they can move through the program with the confidence that they are receiving hands-on learning that bridges theory and real-world application, equipping them to address challenges with creativity and foresight in any role they might pursue.

New Program Course Features for Master’s Students

In addition to completing a 7-week project course after the Introduction to the Outdoor Recreation Economy certificate that focuses on projects related to outdoor recreation, master’s students will enroll in a second cumulative project course that runs for 14 weeks near the end of their program—after completing either two certificates or one additional certificate plus four elective courses. Students in this longer project course, which is experiential and workshop-driven, will apply the concepts, knowledge and skills gained in the other courses throughout their degree to complete an applied project with an external project partner. Students will analyze, research, develop and implement innovative strategies, processes and/or solutions to a defined problem related to the Outdoor Recreation Economy.

During this course, students will engage with industry partners on multiple occasions to produce a meaningful and impactful solution to their real-life challenges. This course is meant to provide students with a portfolio piece to show current or future employers.

We are confident the second project course will equip students with actionable skills and quality connections that help them appeal to employers and break into the outdoor recreation economy industry.

Enhanced Global Focus

Since its inception in 2019, the Outdoor Recreation Economy program has consistently offered accessible education to learners around the globe, empowering our students worldwide to lead and innovate in the outdoor recreation economy. In an increasingly globalized world, however, we acknowledge the need for our program to expand its reach and offer even more opportunities for our students to learn from and collaborate with global stakeholders.

Our vision is to bring together students, industry professionals and thought leaders from around the globe to co-create solutions to some of the most pressing challenges facing our communities and planet. Through a curriculum that emphasizes applied learning, we want to equip our students with the practical skills, critical thinking and global perspective needed to lead in this rapidly evolving field. 

We’re not just teaching theory—we’re helping students turn bold ideas into tangible action. Whether it’s developing scalable innovations, facilitating cross-sector collaborations or designing sustainable business models, our graduates are empowered to make meaningful change in their organizations and communities. They leave our program prepared not just to participate in the outdoor recreation economy, but to shape it.

This work is deeply collaborative. We value diverse perspectives and actively seek out voices from across the world—because we know the challenges we face are global, and the solutions must be too. Through international partnerships, dialogue and shared learning, we are building a vibrant, interconnected community that spans borders and sectors.

Ultimately, our vision is simple but powerful: to empower individuals to lead with integrity, innovate with purpose and act with impact. The Outdoor Recreation Economy program is more than an academic experience—it’s a movement toward a more equitable, resilient and sustainable future for outdoor recreation and the people who depend on it. 

Get Started

If you are interested in our program, attend one of our upcoming Q&As or schedule a meeting with our admissions specialist to discuss how the program fits with your personal and professional career goals.

We are eager to engage with you and help you reach your potential!

Warm regards, 

Mark Gasta

Associate Director for the Outdoor Recreation Economy Program