Frequently asked questions

  1. Does ETOL specialize in the training of hard skills?
  2. Can I get outdoor-related certifications through the program?
  3. Can I apply to teacher's college or graduate school with this degree?
  4. Do I have flexibility in choosing my courses to suit my interests?
  5. What is Directed Field Studies?
  6. Do I have to be an expert in a variety of outdoor pursuits?
  7. Will I be doing trips outside of normal class time?
  8. Is the ETOL appropriate for someone who's career interests lean towards planning and management rather than adventure guiding?
  9. What are some other expectations of ETOL students?

 

  1. Does ETOL specialize in the training of hard skills?
    Introductory level courses in a wide range of activity areas are offered but the program emphasizes a broad approach to education reflective of the breadth of the industry. Students entering the program should expect a liberal education.

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  2. Can I get outdoor-related certifications through the program?
    Yes, but it is limited to two to three introductory level certifications within the program itself. Students will be required to achieve advanced level certification in one area by fourth year. However, it is the responsibility of the student to pursue and develop specialized skills outside of the program. It is expected that students who enter into this program are personally motivated to develop their outdoor pursuits skills.

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  3. Can I apply to teacher's college or graduate school with this degree?
    Students have the option to apply to any institution after completingthe ETOL degree. However, because it is fairly new and somewhat unique to Alberta, at this point there is uncertainty as to which institutions will recognize the ETOL degree as a standard undergraduate degree. The experience at Mount Royal University has been that students graduating from other applied degrees (those that have been in operation before the ETOL program) have been successful in some instances in getting the applied degree recognized by other institutions.

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  4. Do I have flexibility in choosing my courses to suit my interests?
    Yes, you are expected to take six courses from the Arts and Sciences list of courses to round out your liberal education at Mount Royal University. However, not every course offered at the college is on the Arts and Science list. Similar to other applied degrees, there is not a "combined degree" option, where students are enrolled in two degrees simultaneously  

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  5. What is Directed Field Studies?
    You are required to complete two Directed Field Studies in order to graduate. Directed Field Studies are paid practicums. The first Directed Field Study (ETOL 2010) occurs in semester five and the second (ETOL 3010) occurs in semester seven. You should be prepared to take the Directed Field Studies 2010 and 3010 at those times. Be aware that pre-requisites for these courses will be enforced. Students should expect to pursue Directed Field Studies within anywhere in Canada, although limited opportunities may exist for international experiences.

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  6. Do I have to be an expert in a variety of outdoor pursuits?
    We expect that students entering the program will have some proficiency and exposure to a wide variety of outdoor pursuits. You do not have to be an expert in these areas. More importantly we expect you to be willing and able to develop your outdoor pursuits skills within and outside of the program.  

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  7. Will I be doing trips outside of normal class time?
    Yes. Most activity courses include a mandatory weekend outing. You should expect to participate in several mandatory weekend outings per term especially for semesters one through four.

    ETOL 3303 - Expedition I is a 10-12 day expedition course that occurs in the last two weeks of August in Semester three. This is a mandatory course and you should be prepared to make the appropriate allowances within your schedule.

    Later in the program you will also be required to complete ETOL 4403 which is an unaccompanied expedition. This expedition will be completed with other students outside of regular course/class time.

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  1. Is the ETOL appropriate for someone who's career interests lean towards planning and management rather than adventure guiding?
    Yes. We recognize that the field is broad and involves many and varied career possibilities. Our students are comprised of an eclectic mix of people with varied and valid career aspirations.

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  2. What are some other expectations of ETOL students?
    We expect you to demonstrate an enormous level of initiative and to recognize that Mount Royal University is a partner in your education. We expect you to seek out opportunities to join the broader Eco/Outdoor community whether through course projects, volunteer work, or outdoor pursuits related club activity. The benefit of community involvement to the student via networking, new skill development and confidence is enormous.

    We expect you to conduct yourself in a professional manner - your career begins when you enter the program.

    We also expect you to challenge yourself in your academic and activity pursuits but also challenge all those around you (including your faculty) to constantly strive for an optimal educational experience.

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