Adventure tourism is a fast-growing sector within the tourism industry. This reflects the fact that travelers are moving away from traditional holidays to personally challenging experiences in the great outdoors. Trends indicate that the demand for unique or ‘authentic’ outdoor experiences will continue to grow worldwide.

Minor content

The module combines practice and theory and focuses on the development of entrepreneurial skills and competencies. Under the supervision of certified outdoor instructors, you learn about organizing and carrying out outdoor activities and tours. As part of the assessment, you develop sustainable adventure products and innovative operational strategies. In addition, leadership, as well as individual and group development form central themes of the programme.

You learn to design, manage and evaluate an outdoor, adventure-themed activity as well as what it takes to be “adventurous”. You have plenty of opportunities to challenge yourself mentally and physically. By meeting and working with experts and professionals from the industry, you get a clear picture of what is happening behind the scenes and what is required from you as a future professional.

In short, you will gain new knowledge about the field which enables you to grow and make progress in your personal and professional development.

This minor is offered by Tourism Management.

 

Structure of the minor

The module Learning Outcome is: The student can demonstrate general knowledge of entrepreneurship and tour operating within the outdoor and adventure business in order to design and manage an outdoor, adventure-themed activity. This module consists of a theoretical and a practical part. You will get insight into theoretical issues, applied to authentic situations. You will also learn the practical side by organising and participating in different activities in Leeuwarden and in the Belgian Ardennes (a week-long field trip)

This minor can be interesting for anyone who has an affinity with the field of Outdoor Leadership and Adventure Tourism. However, that is not all - this minor can be relevant to a much broader audience as many competencies acquired by the students are transferable and can be used in a variety of fields. For example, skills and knowledge related to entrepreneurship and leadership - two of the key components of this module – can easily be used in a variety of settings. The module includes a week-long field trip as well as several day trips, during which the students get a chance to learn more about the industry from professionals. These trips are compulsory and entail extra costs. The exact amount depends on the size of the group and the exact program, which may vary from year to year. 

Diverse (written assignments, presentations, an open question exam, student-led workshops and outdoor activities)and outdoor activities).