FdA Outdoor Activities

UCAS code: N295

Start date: September

Course length: Full time: two years

Campus: Buxton Campus

Faculty: University of Derby Buxton

This course is available to international students

If you are the kind of person that enjoys outdoor  adventurous activities, and you could see yourself leading expeditions, coaching or working independently, then this course could be perfect for you, and it's based in the heart of the Peak District.

You will cover a range of interdisciplinary and work based subject areas that prepare you for employment in the outdoor sector.

You will have the opportunity to investigate the theoretical concepts of outdoor adventure, leadership and coaching as well as the development of independent thinking. The practical elements will provide you with hands-on experience and practice in a range of outdoor activities.

You will also undertake a work based project that encourages you to develop your employability skills and experience in preparation for your future career.

The Outdoor Activities programme works with a variety of organisations within the sector to provide you with up-to-date teaching and opportunities whilst you are studying.

This includes organisations such as

• British Mountaineering Council
• British Association of International Mountain Leaders
• Mammut Technical Equipment Manufacturer

You will study modules like these, but they may change:

Stage 1

• Outdoor Research and Professional Development 1
• Philosophical Perspectives of Outdoor Adventure
• Work Based Project 1
• Introduction to the Natural Environment

Stage 2

• Outdoor Research and Professional Development 2
• Nature Conservation
• Outdoor Activity Leadership
• Work Based Project 2

Our entry requirements are usually 160 UCAS points, of which at least 120 will be from your core A2s (full A levels) or equivalent qualifications such as BTEC Diploma, International Baccalaureate, Scottish Highers etc.

We'll accept up to 40 points towards the total from level 3 qualifications such as AS levels (where those AS levels are not taken on to A2 level), the Extended Project or Music qualifications.

We don't accept points from Key Skills Level 3. If you have any questions about what is or isn't accepted, please contact our Admissions team.

We also accept the Access to HE Diploma.

Your points at level 3 will be in addition to 5 GCSEs at grade C or equivalent level 2 qualifications.

The UCAS tariff points are a guide - we'll also consider all the information that you've included in your application. We'll also want to see that you're enthusiastic and motivated to take this course and that you have the potential to benefit from coming to university.

General undergraduate entry requirements

This is a specialist course.

UK/EU students

• Full time: £8,800 (each year)

International students

• Full time: £10,510 (per year)

*These fees apply if you're starting this course between September 2013 and August 2014. We recommend you check fee details with us though, as they can change. Costs can increase each year.

You will be assessed in a number of ways, including written assignments, group discussions and oral presentations.

Work placements

You will have the opportunity to do a work placement to further develop your knowledge and practical skills.

Previous students on the Outdoor Activities programme at the University of Derby have gone onto:

• Top-up to gain the BA (Hons) in Outdoor Leadership and Coaching
• Youth work
• Outdoor instructing
• Outdoor facility management
• Outdoor coaching
• Public services
• Armed forces
• Outdoor sport development
• Expedition leadership and freelance instructing.

The programme also provides you with an opportunity to work in-house in our department, working as a team building assistant for corporate clients.

"I chose Buxton for many reasons. The University offer a great deal and has introduced me to some of the most motivated and inspiring outdoor and adventure professionals."

Thomas Konsek