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Bachelor of Health and Physical Education — Ecotourism and Outdoor Leadership (BHPE)
Why study ecotourism and outdoor leadership?
Lead sustainable outdoor experiences and build stronger connections between people and nature.
Explore the world of sustainable tourism, cultural heritage and outdoor adventure programming at Mount Royal University in Calgary. Our Bachelor of Health and Physical Education — Ecotourism and Outdoor Leadership helps you build foundational skills in backpacking, canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking, wilderness survival and rock climbing. You’ll gain knowledge in program planning, risk management, leadership, environmental stewardship and tourism planning. This hands-on degree prepares you for rewarding careers in ecotourism, outdoor education and guiding — giving you the tools to lead meaningful and sustainable outdoor experiences.
Program highlights
- Learn technical skills in backpacking, kayaking, mountain biking, rock climbing and wilderness survival
- Complete multi-day expeditions and field experiences in backcountry environments
- Earn industry-recognized certifications in wilderness first aid, paddling and outdoor leadership
- Design and lead outdoor programs focused on sustainability, safety and environmental stewardship
- Gain hands-on experience with tourism operators, parks and environmental organizations
Career possibilities
What jobs can I get with a ecotourism and outdoor leadership degree?
Graduates often pursue fulfilling careers in outdoor education, ecotourism, guiding, conservation and park management. Some of the roles they take on include:
Once I was at a point in my life when I was choosing a university, I discovered the ETOL program and knew it was exactly where I needed to be.
— MRU alum Juan Pablo Quiñonez
BHPE — Ecotourism and Outdoor Leadership (2015)
Curriculum and courses
What courses will I take in ecotourism and outdoor leadership?
Blend environmental knowledge with leadership, risk management and outdoor skills.
Explore full curriculum and coursesYear 1
|Years 2-4
Curriculum snapshot – Year 1
Experiential learning
At MRU, you’ll gain hands-on experience in outdoor leadership, sustainable tourism and adventure programming. Engage in a wide range of activities that develop both technical skills and leadership capabilities, preparing you to make a meaningful impact in Alberta's growing eco and adventure tourism sectors.
- Develop skills in key outdoor activities such as backpacking, canoeing, sea kayaking and fly fishing
- Complete your work experience with environmental organizations and tourism operators
- Earn certifications in wilderness first aid, backcountry travel, paddling and other essential outdoor skills
- Broaden your perspective through immersive study abroad and field school experiences
Admission requirements
When you apply to MRU, you’ll need to meet both general admission requirements and any additional criteria specific to your chosen program. Requirements can vary, so it’s important to review what’s needed for your area of interest.
Select your admission category:
High school
Post-secondary transfer
Mature student
Admission category: High school
High school applicants must submit five Grade 12 courses for admission. These five courses must include the required subjects for the program you’re applying to. These required subjects are part of Group A.
To complete your five courses, additional subjects may be used from Group A, B, or C.
More admissions info for high school applicantsWhat are the requirements for the Bachelor of Health and Physical Education — Ecotourism and Outdoor Leadership?
- English Language Arts 30-1 - 60%
- Mathematics 30-1 or 30-2
Applying from another province or country?
If you're applying from outside Alberta, you'll need to know which of your courses match Alberta Grade 12 courses.
Check out our provincial equivalencies chart if you're from another Canadian province or the international credentials chart if you're applying from outside Canada.
If English is not your first language, you’ll need to meet two separate English requirements to be admitted to Mount Royal:
- You’ll need to successfully complete an English course if it’s part of your program’s admission requirements
- Show that you meet Mount Royal’s English Language Proficiency (ELP) requirements
Admission deadlines
Fall 2026 intake
Early admission
Oct. 1, 2025 - Feb. 1, 2026
Ongoing admission based on program space and availability
Feb. 2, 2026 - programs closed
What is early admission?
During the early admission period, all applications are treated as though they were received at the exact same time. This means all competitively qualified applicants will be accommodated. At MRU, we actually receive most of our applications and fill many of our programs from applications submitted during early admission. It is an ideal time to apply and helps expedite the process so you hear back earlier too.
Early admission deadlines
Fall Semester:
Early admission is open from Oct. 1 to Feb 1.
Winter Semester:
Early admission is open from Oct. 1 to Nov. 1.
Costs
We know your investment in post-secondary education is a big deal. Make sure you’re on the right financial track by reviewing the costs, scholarships and financial support available.
How much does the Bachelor of Health and Physical Education — Ecotourism and Outdoor Leadership cost?
The cost of your studies depends on a few things, like the program you choose and whether you’ll live at home or in Residence.
To get a better idea of what you might spend, try using our first-year student budget estimator. It gives a detailed breakdown of estimated costs.
You can also visit our tuition and costs page for full details on tuition and fees for a full year.
Does MRU offer scholarships or financial aid?
At Mount Royal, we want you to focus on your education, not worry about how to pay for it. There are many ways to help cover the cost of your studies.
Scholarships and bursaries
Mount Royal gives out over $5 million each year in scholarships and bursaries! These awards look at things like your grades, financial need and your involvement in school or the community.
Financial aid
There are financial aid options from the provincial and federal governments for both full-time and part-time students. These include student loans, grants and bursaries.
Other resources
You can also explore other ways to pay, like using RESPs (Registered Education Savings Plans) or CPP (Canada Pension Plan) benefits.
How do I apply for scholarships and bursaries?
To be eligible for scholarships and bursaries, you must apply for Early Admission from Oct. 1 to Feb. 1. You can apply for scholarships and bursaries from Nov. 1 to March 1.
Have questions?
Our info sessions are a great way to explore MRU programs, learn how to apply and connect with people who are here to help.
Book an info sessionConnect with the Admissions and Recruitment Office for more one-on-one support.
Contact us
Why MRU
At MRU, learning is about more than lectures and textbooks. It’s about evolving through experience. With small class sizes, supportive faculty and hands-on opportunities, students are encouraged to think critically, push boundaries and uncover what they’re capable of. MRU helps students build the skills, confidence and curiosity to shape meaningful futures in Calgary and beyond.
Discover why MRULearn about the additional supports and services we have available specifically for:
International students Indigenous studentsFaculty of Health, Community and Education
Mount Royal is pleased to offer four Bachelor of Health and Physical Education degrees, including majors in Athletic Therapy, Ecotourism and Outdoor Leadership, Physical Literacy, and Sport and Recreation Management.
Virtual information sessions
Select a session that suits you. Choose from general information, specific by program, drop in Q&A, or attend an Indigenous or international student session.
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