Calling All Adventurers! This Degree Program Could Be For You

Get to know Mount Royal University's Ecotourism and Outdoor Leadership program.

In less than two hours, you can drive from Mount Royal University in Calgary, Alberta, to Banff National Park, one of the world's premier destinations for outdoor recreation. And if you drive an hour and a half in the opposite direction, you'll hit Drumheller and the badlands, offering spectacular trails for cycling, running, and hiking.

With such an adventure-worthy backyard, it should come as no surprise that many outdoor enthusiasts call Calgary home. For those that want to go one step further than being a weekend warrior, MRU's Bachelor of Health and Physical Education - Ecotourism and Outdoor Leadership (ETOL) program can turn your passion into a meaningful career.

What is ETOL?

ETOL is a unique program that explores sustainable tourism, socio-cultural heritage, outdoor adventure programming, entrepreneurship, leadership and communication. Learning alongside peers that share your interests, you'll learn how to become a champion of outdoor adventure, equipped with entrepreneurial savvy and a comprehensive understanding of the links between health, physical activity, and wellness.

You'll also gain foundational skills in a variety of outdoor pursuits, including backpacking, canoeing, cross-country and backcountry skiing, kayaking, mountain biking, wilderness survival, and rock climbing.

Valuable practicum experience

There are two required practicums you must complete throughout the ETOL program:

• The first involves theoretical coursework combined with a 52-hour job shadow in an area of health and wellness.
• The second is a 160-hour industry placement, giving you first-hand experience in the field.

These experiential learning opportunities not only help put classroom theory into practice, but also build valuable connections and skills that will support your future career.

A world of career opportunities

Graduates of ETOL are prepared to provide leadership and strong contributions to the growing eco- and adventure tourism sectors, and often find work at resorts, outdoor adventure outfitters, parks, or universities and colleges. Your job title after ETOL could range from parks interpreter, outdoor adventure guide, or ecotourism planner, to wilderness-based youth worker, outdoor equipment rep, ski patroller, and more.

ETOL Film Night

An exciting tradition of the program is the annual ETOL Film Night, a pinnacle event held every year. Through film and photography, ETOL students, faculty and alumni share stories of field schools, expeditions and adventures. It's a great way for those involved in the program to share and celebrate their unique experiences with friends, family, and the greater community.

Apply today!

If you're ready to take your love for the outdoors to another level and build a diverse skill set of program planning, risk management, leadership and environmental stewardship, ETOL could be the program for you.