BSc (Hons) - Outdoor Adventure and Environmental Studies
Harness your passion for the outdoors to learn the environmental, societal and therapeutic benefits of nature and the environment.
Nestled in a UNESCO World Heritage site, our Ambleside Campus, located in the scenic Lake District, provides an unparalleled environment for studying biodiversity and immersing yourself in nature. Here, surrounded by therapeutic landscapes, you'll develop the skills needed for a fulfilling career in the great outdoors, using local fells, valleys and waters as your classroom.
Utilise the stores, where a plethora of equipment stands ready for your exploration. From climbing equipment to kayaks, where once validated you will be able to loan the equipment, ensuring an enriched experience in the stunning Lake District, and propelling your studies to new heights.
You will learn from academics with a passion for the environment and adventure, they will offer personalised support to guide you through your academic journey and ensure you make the most from your time in Ambleside.
Course Overview
Where better to study Outdoor Adventure and Environmental Studies than at the heart of nature itself? As a student at our Ambleside campus, you'll be surrounded by mountains, woodlands, rivers and lakes – making for a truly immersive learning experience.
Our course blends adventurous outdoor lifestyles with social and environmental awareness, tackling the ecological and cultural challenges of our time. You'll develop practical outdoor skills while investigating the environmental, ecological, and geographical processes that shape natural landscapes.
You’ll also explore how outdoor experiences can support health and wellbeing, with opportunities to engage in work-based projects in both outdoor and environmental settings. Field trips across the UK are a core part of the course, and you’ll have the chance to travel independently to Picos de Europa in Spain, gaining valuable international experience.
This immersive approach to learning prepares you for a variety of careers in environmental education, conservation, environmental management, or therapeutic outdoor practice.
On this course you will...
- Learn outdoors experientially to develop outdoor skills and explore contemporary environmental questions.
- Work with and for different outdoor and environmental organisations to gain hands-on experience and contacts with potential future employers.
- Explore how the outdoors has heath and wellbeing benefits and therapeutic applications.
- Learn in inspiring locations like the Lake District National Park, North Wales, Scotland, British coastline, and Spain (including a shared international expedition with Spanish students).
- Meet some of the most inspiring people and students, and have unique once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
What our students say
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I chose this course because it was different – it didn’t seem like studying. Everything you learn is done in such a creative way.
Chloe Price, Outdoor Adventure and Environmental Studies
Chloe, from Wiltshire, came to the University of Cumbria straight from school.
Stay Focused. Go Far.




Location
Ambleside Campus
Nestled in the Lake District National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Ambleside campus is the perfect place for world-savers, animal lovers, and adventurers. There is never a dull moment when surrounded by such natural beauty and opportunity.
Find out more
Find out more about studying with us
Attend an Open Day at Cumbria
An Open Day is your opportunity to explore one of 5 campuses, meet your lecturers, and find out how the University of Cumbria could become your new home.
