If you have a passion for outdoor adventure and a desire to lead, consider becoming an IU Outdoor Adventures outdoor leader. IUOA’s team of approximately 75 student and staff outdoor leaders is responsible for leading more than 40 IUOA trips and workshops each year.
Become an outdoor leader
Becoming an IUOA outdoor leader is a two-step process.
Step 1: Enroll in SPH-W305
For most students, the first step in becoming an outdoor leader is to enroll in SPH-W 305, Introduction to Wilderness Leadership. This eight-week course, which is offered twice during the fall semester and twice during the spring semester, follows the Wilderness Education Association curriculum. Students learn the principles and practices of planning, implementing, leading, supervising, and evaluating outdoor trips and programs and then apply that knowledge by planning and participating in a weekend-long backcountry trip.
Students who have extensive outdoor leadership experience may be exempt from enrolling in SPH-W 305.
Step 2: Submit an application
To apply to become an outdoor leader, complete the outdoor leader application form. You can request a copy of the form by emailing Hannah Nixon at hmnixon@iu.edu.