Outdoor Adventure Leadership

KHS Minor

Students in a field.

This minor equips students with the skills and knowledge to pursue entry-level positions in outdoor recreation settings, such as river guiding in Moab, managing a climbing expedition company in Jackson Hole, or teaching skiing in Park City. Through hands-on experience leading and guiding individuals and groups in a range of outdoor environments, including mountains, rivers, lakes, and deserts, students gain practical knowledge and expertise in outdoor recreation.

The outdoor recreation industry is a major contributor to the economy of Utah, with 110,000 jobs and $12.3 billion in consumer spending. Nearly 75% of Utah residents participate in some form of outdoor recreation each year, taking advantage of the state's abundant public lands, which include five national parks, six national forests, over 229 million acres of BLM land, eight national monuments, and 43 state parks. With a wealth of opportunities for outdoor adventures, the agencies, and industries involved in outdoor recreation are constantly seeking qualified and certified seasonal and year-round employees.


More than 60% of the land in Utah is public land available for a wide variety of recreation and adventure opportunities. With five national parks, six National Forests, more than 229 million acres of BLM, 8 National Monuments, 43 State Parks, 14 ski resorts, and countless private companies, there is no better state in the country for outdoor adventures. The agencies and industries listed above are constantly seeking to hire qualified and appropriately certified seasonal and year around employees.

Admission Requirements

New freshmen, transfer students, and students from other USU majors who have at least a 2.5 overall GPA qualify to enter the Parks and Recreation minor.

Program Requirements

The Outdoor Adventure Leadership Minor requires a minimum of 15 credits.

There may be additional program requirements that students need to complete on a case-by-case basis. Meet with your advisor to discuss program requirements and your progress towards graduation. For more information about this program visit USU Catalog.

Tracking Sheet

Graduation Requirements

All graduates, regardless of the type of degree, must satisfy University Studies general education and depth education requirements.

Additional Graduation Requirements:

  • A grade of C or better in all RAM courses.

Contact Information

Alice Kenley

Alice Kenley

Academic Advisor

Kinesiology and Health Science

Phone: 435-797-0837
Office Location: HPER 122F
Schedule an Appointment

Program Director

Jesse Jones

Jesse Jones

Professional Practice Assistant Professor

Kinesiology and Health Science

Phone: 435-797-0669
Office Location: HPER 148