Bachelor of Outdoor and Environmental Leadership
Degree Level Undergraduate
Year 2025
You're viewing degree information for International students
You're considered an International student if you are:
- NOT an Australian or New Zealand citizen
- NOT an Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)
Program Code
IBOE
Prerequisites
None
Assumed Knowledge
None
Fees
AUD$ 39,400 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2025
Admissions
Student Profile
English Language Requirements
- IELTS total [6.0]
- IELTS reading [6.0]
- IELTS writing [6.0]
International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements
CRICOS Code
0101602
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Entry requirements
Admission criteria
The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.
Certain conditions apply. For more information refer to Appendix 4 of the University's Selection and Entry policy.
Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements and essential requirements for admission:
Recent secondary education
Meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C- or equivalent
AND- Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and achieved a competitive Selection Rank (ATAR), or
- Complete secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
- Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points
Applicants who have not achieved the Selection Rank required for automatic selection may be selected for any remaining places based on the grades of their year 12 subjects.
OR
Higher education study- Complete or partly complete a recognised higher education program at a recognised higher education institution, or
- Complete at least four Open Universities Australia (OUA) courses at undergraduate level or above
OR
Vocational Education and Training (VET)- Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV or above
OR
Work and life experience- Qualify for Special Entry, or
- Complete a 12-month UniSA Foundation Studies program or equivalent, or
- Hold completed secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE obtained more than 2 years in the past
Essential requirements for admission
Prerequisites
NoneAssumed Knowledge
NoneEnglish language entry requirements
In addition to meeting academic entry requirements, international students who speak English as a second or additional language must also meet the University's English language entry requirements. The minimum language requirements for this program are:English language testPlease access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by UniSA and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements: English Language Equivalence Table (PDF)- IELTS total [6.0]
- IELTS reading [6.0]
- IELTS writing [6.0]
Admission Requirements by Country
HKDSE 15 Nepal NEB 2.61 German Abitur 3.5 Kenya KCSE (average) B+ Malaysia STPM (best 3) 6 Malaysia UEC 30 Norway GPA 3 Bangladesh HSC 4 Pakistan HSSC 85 Canada High School (OSSD) 65 Sri Lanka A Levels (best 3) 7 Eynesbury FSP 330 Sweden GPA 13 UK Board GCE A Levels/HK Board 7 Vietnam 7.5 Australia 70 IB (best 6) 26 USA SAT (1600) 1110 India (best 4) State Board 75 India (best 4) Central Board 65
Degree overview
- Graduate ready to become a recognised leader in outdoor education, adventure therapy, ecotourism and environmental interpretation.
- Develop in-demand skills and knowledge in broadly applicable areas such as health and wellbeing, environmental leadership, social justice and sustainable living.
- Engage with more than 400 hours of practical experience and fieldwork in a wide range of real-world settings throughout your studies.
- Undertake early-career professional development in outdoor education and leadership from your first year of study.
- Study courses providing outdoor leadership accreditation.
- Study with South Australia’s No.1 university for graduate skills in environmental science.1
- Learn from nationally recognised outdoor leaders and educators with a curriculum informed by well above world-class research in environmental sciences and management.2
- UniSA is an unstoppable university for unstoppable people. As one of the World’s Top Young Universities,3 we’ll ensure you get the experience your future profession demands so it’ll feel like you’re studying one minute and in a career the next.
1ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2021-22, Agriculture and Environmental Studies – Skills Development Indicator (Undergraduate). SA public universities. 22018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). 3Ranked #43, 2024 THE Young University Rankings.
Snapshot
As the only degree of its kind in South Australia, the Bachelor of Outdoor and Environmental Leadership combines foundational environmental science and outdoor leadership concepts to equip future outdoor education professionals with a broadly applicable set of skills and knowledge.
This unique degree equips you will develop foundational skills and knowledge for a rewarding career in nature-based tourism, environmental interpretation, experiential education, adventure therapy or adventure-based leadership. Develop the reflective, evaluative and critical-thinking skills required to implement and lead culturally aware and environmentally sustainable outdoor experiences.
You can tailor your studies to your specific career goals with five specialisation options including community engagement and sustainability, management, counselling, Aboriginal cultures, and biology.
Further your studies by choosing from over twelve postgraduate programs including Master of Environmental Science, Master of Social Work, Master of Aboriginal Studies or a Master of Teaching.
What you'll learn
This degree explores an integrated range of industry-relevant topics balancing core concepts of bioscience and social science. Through your studies, you’ll develop core knowledge and skills in biodiversity, ecology, coastal environments, earth systems, sustainable ecosystems and caring for Country.
Your final year will strengthen your understanding of professional practice and advanced environmental science, as well as develop your specialised management skills to transition you into the workforce.
As well as placement opportunities within leading industry environments, you can apply your learned skills through intensive fieldwork including:
- leading an introductory kayaking or canoeing experience for UniSA students
- planning and implementing a four-day experiential learning program
- conducting interpretive experiences such as a ‘Water Workshop’ at a primary school
- undertaking a week-long immersive field trip including a day of service learning in areas such as the Nantawarrina Indigenous Protected Area
Develop in-demand research skills alongside world-class researchers during your degree, focusing on areas such as species study, laboratory analysis of soils and contamination, sampling, field-based data collection, and critical analysis of human-nature interactions.
Study hours
For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.
Global opportunities
Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.
You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.
Take a look at the global opportunities available.
Why Bachelor of Outdoor and Environmental Leadership
Gain a competitive edge with this unique and experiential degree, tailored to meet growing industry demand for outdoor adventure guides, educational practitioners and environmental leaders.
UniSA's curriculum is based on well above world-class research in environmental sciences and management,1 with a focus on experiential learning. You'll develop a holistic understanding of bioscience and social science concepts to become a recognised leader in growing professions such as outdoor education, adventure therapy, ecotourism and environmental interpretation.
UniSA gives you the freedom to align your studies with your interests and career goals. You can major in ecosystem sciences or select courses in the areas of community engagement and sustainability, management, counselling and interpersonal skills, Aboriginal cultures and biology.
Apply your learned skills and knowledge during more than 400 hours of intensive and immersive industry placement and fieldwork, including the opportunity to lead groups in outdoor programs and undertake self-reliant adventure trips.
Depending on your courses studied, you may be eligible to register for qualifications such as a Bushwalking Assistant Leader with Bushwalking Leadership South Australia, a Paddle Supervisor with Paddle Australia, or as a Rock-climbing Assistant Guide with the South Australian Rockclimbing Education Association (SAREA).
12018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).
Your career
The field of outdoor environmental leadership presents an exciting career opportunity. Employment in arts and recreation services is projected to grow by 10.1 over the next five years.1
Outdoor environmental leaders are employed in a wide range of settings, with the versatility of expertise applicable to the global industry of nature-based leadership and environmental interpretation. Graduates can embark on exciting careers such as:
- Outdoor education practitioner: facilitate nature-based outdoor learning experiences for personal and group development, health and wellbeing, environmental learning, sustainability and social justice.
- Community development officer: design, implement and lead initiatives and collective solutions to address issues associated with recreational, health, housing and other community welfare matters.
- Ecotourism guide: plan and lead culturally aware and environmentally sustainable experiences to assist with nature-based therapy and responsible tourism practices.
- Outdoor adventure instructor: provide adventure-based learning experiences with accreditation in bushwalking, kayaking and rock-climbing.
- Youth worker: collaborate with social workers, psychologists and support agencies to provide therapeutic outdoor experiences for at-risk youth and community members.
- Environmental interpretation officer: provide guidance and consultation for human interaction with natural environments and educate visitors and tourists in areas of cultural and conservationist significance.
By choosing two human biology electives, you can undertake the Master of Teaching (Secondary) and be able to teach Biology, Environmental Science and Outdoor Education up to Year 12. Master of Teaching (Early Childhood) and Master of teaching (Primary), are also options. Visit 'How do I become a secondary teacher?' for more information.
1Australian Government National Skills Commission Employment Projections 2021.
Industry facts
How to apply for international students will give you helpful information about the application process at the University of South Australia. When you are ready, apply through our International Application System. If you would like to talk to someone near you about studying at the University of South Australia, we have agents all over the world who can assist you. Find an Education Agent in your country.
Alternative Pathways
Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:
- UniSA College Diploma in Health (Sport)
- UniSA College Diploma in STEM (Science and the Environment)
- UniSA College Undergraduate Certificate in University Studies (Health)
- UniSA College Undergraduate Certificate in University Studies (STEM)
- SAIBT Diploma of Health Science
International
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:
SAIBT Diploma of Health Science
Scholarships
Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.
Vice Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship
Recipients can get a 50% reduction on tuition fees for up to four years of full-time study for selected degrees.
International Merit Scholarship
Recipients can get a 15% reduction on tuition fees for the duration of their chosen degree.
Your study experience and support
As a UniSA student, you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.
Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also gain access to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, business, law and psychology. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and lots more.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.
Student services
Our international student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:
- career advice and mentoring
- help with student visas and health cover
- personal counselling
- academic counselling
- fees and finance help
- common rooms
- prayer rooms
- security officers
- accommodation services
- as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.
We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can offer help with the English language too. When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.
24/7 digital environment
Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.
Your study spaces
Outdoor and environmental leadership students get to study in UniSA’s dedicated biology laboratory as part of their studies. You'll also have access to UniSA Sport gym facilities, including a rock-climbing wall and pools. Plus, enjoy a range of on-campus spaces including modern lecture theatres, libraries, collaborative teaching rooms and relaxed student lounges.
Your program director
I am excited to collaborate with some amazing researchers and teachers to deliver this degree that combines a passion for the outdoors and the environment where students graduate industry-ready and with excellent postgraduate options. Graduates will take on the challenge to develop individuals and communities to promote knowledge and positive relationships essential for the well-being and future of individuals, society and our environment.
Ask UniSA
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How do I apply?
There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.
You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.
Alternatively you can submit an application through one of the University's registered Education Agents.
If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.
If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here.
Postgraduate study by research
For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees. -
Is there a closing date for applications?
There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.
If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC. Key dates for applications can be found here.
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What credit can I receive for previous studies?
You may be eligible to receive credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.
The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.
The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.
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Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?
UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.
Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.
We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.
