Movement Science Degree, Adventure Education Concentration, B.S.

Student mid-climb on a colorful rock wall, focused and determined.

Lead, Inspire, Explore — Prepare for a Career in Outdoor Adventure

The Adventure Education concentration within the Movement Science major offers students a unique blend of classroom instruction and hands-on field experience to prepare for careers in outdoor leadership and education. Designed for those passionate about experiential learning and physical activity, the program emphasizes both scientific knowledge and practical skill development.

Students build a strong foundation in areas such as physical activity and health, kinesiology, and sports psychology, while also gaining specialized experience through courses like Adventure Education Leadership and Introduction to Adventure Education. Activity-based classes—including options like Rock Climbing and Initiative Games and Ropes—help students develop the technical and interpersonal skills essential for leading safe and engaging outdoor programs.

Program Highlights

  • Hands-on experiences that build skills in outdoor environments
  • Activity-based courses in rock climbing, camping skills, and ropes initiatives
  • Leadership-focused curriculum
  • Interdisciplinary learning through electives
  • Career-ready training

Ready to Lead the Way?

Explore the Adventure Education concentration and take the first step toward an exciting future.

Empower Your Outdoor Passion—Develop Skills for Real-World Impact

  • Students in an adventure education course teaching each other how to tie ropes.

    Focused Leadership Development

    Students in the Adventure Education concentration gain specialized leadership training, equipping them to manage outdoor groups and lead safe, effective adventure programs. Emphasizing risk management, team-building, and educational outcomes, this concentration prepares graduates to take charge of both field trips and more structured outdoor learning environments, ensuring a professional approach to leading groups in diverse settings.

  • Student nearing the top of an indoor rock climbing wall.

    Immersive, Hands-On Learning

    The program emphasizes learning by doing. Through field-based courses like Rock Climbing and Camping Skills, students practice the essential outdoor skills needed for adventure leadership, while also honing their problem-solving and communication abilities. This hands-on approach ensures students gain practical, real-world experience, which is crucial for success in the adventure education field.

  • Two students chatting on the campus green on a sunny day.

    Interdisciplinary Perspective on Outdoor Education

    Through a diverse curriculum that includes courses in cultural competence, psychology, and health, students in the Adventure Education concentration are equipped to create inclusive outdoor programs. With classes like Sports and Exercise Psychology, graduates develop the skills to work effectively with diverse groups, ensuring their programs meet the unique needs of various populations and environments.

Program Details

Learning Outcomes
  • Students will understand and demonstrate cultural competence.
  • Students will understand the need for and will demonstrate proficiency in written and oral communications and be able to utilize different forms of current technology.
  • Students will use reflective practices to plan, implement and evaluate program, personal, community and professional goals.
  • Students will demonstrate an ability to explain the relevance of scientific and theoretical knowledge appropriate to his/her chosen field of study to everyday problems.
  • Students will utilize critical inquiry to advance knowledge and apply that knowledge to practice.
  • Students will understand the importance of and will engage in professional behaviors including pursuit of appropriate credentials.
  • Students will understand the role of Physical Activity in the Health and Wellness of individuals across the lifespan.
  • Students will value and participate in Civic Engagement.

What Can You Do with a Movement Science Degree, Adventure Education Concentration, B.S.?

With a Movement Science degree, Adventure Education concentration (B.S.), you can pursue a variety of careers that combine physical activity, outdoor leadership, and experiential learning. Here are some common paths:

  • Outdoor Education Instructor
  • Adventure Program Coordinator
  • Recreation and Parks Specialist
  • Challenge Course or Ropes Course Facilitator
  • Camp Director or Program Manager
  • Adventure-Based Counselor
  • Wilderness Trip Leader or Guide
Instructor demonstrating rope-tying techniques to a student at the rock climbing wall.

Ready to learn more?

Course Requirements

Movement Science Major Core (27 credits)

All majors in the Department of Sports Medicine and Human Performance must complete the twenty-seven (27) credits of courses specified below. A minimum grade point average of 2.5 in the Major Core is required to be eligible to graduate with a degree from the department.

Scientific Foundations (21 credits)

Evidence-Based Practice (3 credits)

The courses listed below are concentration-specific and must be taken depending on the concentration you are studying.

Cultural Competence (3 credits)

The courses listed below are concentration-specific and must be taken depending on the concentration you are studying.

Professional Development Procedures

In order to progress through the Movement Science majors, students must meet the academic and professional development criteria necessary to earn intermediate and advanced standing in the department.

Intermediate Standing

Requirements for Intermediate Standing to progress through the Movement Science majors are as follows:

  • Minimum GPA of 2.5 in the following courses:
  • MOVP 0100 - Science of Physical Activity and Health
  • MOVP 0194 - Musculoskeletal Structure and Function
  •  Additional Requirements:Student Acknowledgement Form Copy of Degree Evaluation First Aid/CPR Certification Earn a minimum of 12 Professional Development points across four (4) different areas (Academic, Clinical, Professional, Social Justice; three in each area) Writing Sample (ENGL 0101; graded B- or higher) Additional requirements that are specific to Physical Education can be found on the Physical Education concentration page.

Advanced Standing

Advanced Standing is required for those completing an internship, ATEP clinical experience, or student teaching practicum. The requirements are as follows:

  • Minimum GPA of 2.5 in the Major Core area (27 credits)
  • Minimum GPA of 2.7 in the courses required within the chosen concentration (Physical Education requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 within the concentration)
  • Minimum overall GPA of 2.8
  • Personal Statement
  • Resume
  • First Aid / CPR Certification
  • Membership in a professional organization
  • Earn a minimum of 16 Professional Development Points across four different areas (Academic, Clinical, Professional, Social Justice; four in each area)
  • Three (3) Faculty Recommendations and two (2) additional recommendations from outside the department

Additional requirements for Physical Education students can be found on the Physical Education concentration page.

Additional information can be found in the SMHP Department manual.

Adventure Education Concentration

Adventure Education administers an experiential curriculum of traditional and alternative teaching methods both in the classroom and in the field that meets the needs of the individual student's technical and theoretical foundation of becoming a professional in the field of outdoor adventure leadership. This concentration prepares students for careers in outdoor education and to lead field trips and adventure trips within the leisure industry.

Required Course List:

 

One of the following:

 

One of the following:

 

As well as three activities’ courses from the following list: 3-5 Credits

 

Also required is:

 

Note:

In consultation with advisor, students may want to pursue a minor in Biology, Business, or Environmental Science.

Additional Graduation Requirements

All students must meet the University Graduation Requirements and complete a general education or common core of studies, distributed among the different academic areas as detailed in General Education: WISE or Common Core.

Get Big School Features with Small School Advantages

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a welcoming campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • 87%

    Of students receive financial aid

  • 17:1

    Student-Faculty Ratio

  • 700+

    Internship opportunities

Personalized Attention from Dedicated Faculty

At our institution, faculty members hold advanced degrees in the subjects they teach. Imagine a learning environment where personalized attention is not just a promise but a reality. Your professors are not just educators; they are mentors committed to expanding your horizons. Through a blend of dynamic coursework and hands-on projects, we're dedicated to not just teaching but elevating your knowledge and skills.

Movement Science students smiling with a faculty member at an academic awards ceremony.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to submit SAT/ACT scores or an essay when I apply?

Westfield State University does not require an application essay, SAT and/or ACT scores, or letters of recommendation (except for special program admissions).     

All first-year applicants are reviewed for admission based on their high school record. First-year applicants must meet the minimum eligibility requirements established by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) in order to qualify for admission to a state university.   

Learn more about the application process and admissions here.

How much does Westfield State University cost?

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more. 

Will I receive academic support?

We’re invested in your success. Whether you need a little help adjusting to college, study strategies, tutoring, or disability services, the team at the Academic Achievement Department is ready to help. Our mission is to provide you with the tools to explore academic opportunities as well as to plot strategies for continued growth. 

Learn more about our student support services here.

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Movement Science Degree, Adventure Education Concentration, B.S.