By Alaska Pacific University
Published: January 30, 2023
A classroom is so much more than a place of study – it’s a vibrant and dynamic learning environment. Classrooms encourage students from diverse backgrounds and perspectives to express themselves and share their thoughts and ideas. It’s also a learning experience that isn’t limited to what is often considered the traditional concept of a classroom, either. In Alaska, some things are best taught by doing.
Experiential learning is a type of education in which students learn through hands-on, practical experience. It’s a process at Alaska Pacific University that immerses students in outdoor and environmental studies through direct engagement with the natural world. Here, you can transform your classroom into a farm, river, tundra, or even a glacier.
The Bachelor of Arts in Outdoor Studies (OS) program
The OS degree program combines the study of outdoor recreation, environmental science, and outdoor education. Students in this program will gain the necessary skills for positions in parks and recreation, tourism, outdoor and environmental education, adventure therapy, and snow science. The program is also an opportunity to participate in a wide range of field-based experiences like backpacking, rock climbing, and skiing.
Students conquer surrounding mountains as part of their snow science class.
Learn more about the OS degree program here.
The Master of Science in Outdoor & Environmental Science (MSOEE) program
MSOEE is designed for students interested in pursuing careers in outdoor and environmental research, education, and beyond. Experiential learning starts early on in this personalized, hands-on program, where you will combine theory with the design and delivery of curricula in the on-site teaching/learning lab that serves children and adults eager to learn about nature, well-being, and the outdoors.
Students embark on a 10-day trip down the Yukon river starting in Eagle Alaska, along the Canadian border, to Circle Alaska, 160 miles away from Fairbanks, AK.
Learn more about the MSOEE degree program here.
Within both of these degree programs, you’ll gain the necessary hands-on experience for industry positions with Alaska State Parks, the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, the University of Alaska, and so much more.
Notably, Emily Miller, a recent APU alum, has landed a new position as a permanent park ranger at Denali National Park and Preserve. Miller’s background in MSOEE, likely helped her to develop the skills necessary for this role, such as knowledge of natural resource management, interpretation and education, and park operations. Congratulations on the new career, Emily!
If you’re currently on the lookout for a career of your own within the Alaska wilderness, reach out to faculty in the OS and MSOEE degree programs for assistance finding upcoming summer positions and more.
