Outdoor and Experiential Learning (Ambleside) at University of Cumbria - UCAS

University of Cumbria

Degree level: Postgraduate

Outdoor and Experiential Learning (Ambleside) (Taught)

There are other course options available which may have a different vacancy status or entry requirements – view the full list of options

Course summary

If you love the outdoors and are passionate about helping others to be confident in who they are and the contribution they are making to society, the environment and the planet, then this outdoor experiential learning masters program is for you. Our outdoor experiential learning masters will challenge your current understanding and practice by looking through the alternative lens of outdoor experiential learning. Based at our Ambleside campus in the heart of the Lake District National Park, you will live and study surrounded by mountains, woods, rivers and lakes – an unrivalled location for outdoor education. COURSE OVERVIEW This course uses the fundamental process of actual lived experience to explore the cultural, ecological and political lenses which influence our thoughts and behaviour. In contrast to more formal approaches to learning, this course exemplifies experiential learning in its delivery, as well as in the content of its curriculum. To reflect this contemporary trend, there are 3 pathways to choose from which reflect current applications of experiential learning. • Outdoor & Experiential Learning • Outdoor & Experiential Learning (Bushcraft) • Outdoor & Experiential Learning (Health & Wellbeing) You will consider the histories, contemporary application and growth of outdoor and experiential learning at the intersections of professional practice, pedagogy and philosophy via debate & discussion, creative reflection, critical analysis and critique of research and evidence. From your base in Ambleside, you can take advantage of more than 150 lofty peaks, 16 lakes and an abundance of rivers across the Lake District – quite literally a classroom on your doorstep. ON THIS COURSE YOU WILL...

  • Be part of a Lake District campus that prioritises hands-on and skills-based learning.
  • Be part of an innovative and creative course that is tailored to the individual for professional development and enhanced employability
  • Have the opportunity to be creative and critical in challenging accepted ideas about both the contexts of experiential learning and about yourself.
  • Be part of a transdisciplinary course including teaching on anthropology, philosophy, Bushcraft, therapeutic landscapes, art, pedagogy, eco-psychology, outdoor and environmental education, experiential learning, environmental humanities, and more.
  • Explore options for your personal and professional lives derived from many disciplines and cultures based on a reconsideration of the very processes of sensation, perception and cognition.
  • Be taught by an internationally renowned, highly-qualified, experienced, empathetic, and diverse staff team with a breadth of expertise in pathway areas and in creative and imaginative teaching and learning.
WHAT YOU WILL LEARN There are three pathways to choose from in order to complete the MA qualification. Compulsory modules
  • Introduction to Outdoor and Experiential Learning
  • The Reflexive Practitioner
  • Independent Inquiry
  • Dissertation
Pathway modules Bushcraft Pathway
  • Histories and Principles of Bushcraft
  • Cultures and Practices of Bushcraft
Outdoor & Experiential Learning Pathway
  • Know Your Place: Place Responsive Approaches to the Outdoors
  • Learning from Adventerous Journeys
Health & Wellbeing Pathway
  • Querying Therapeutic Landscapes & Outdoor Psychotherapies
  • Therapeutic Opportunities in the Outdoors

Assessment method

Assessment is an integral part of the course and takes place during and at the end of modules. In most modules, there is a blend of formative and summative assessment tasks that students complete which reflect the breadth of skills and competences required by graduates. Students are expected to show critical analysis, evaluation, creativity and autonomy in assessment.


Entry requirements

1st or 2nd class honours degree. Students with other qualifications may be admitted to the course, please contact the Enquiry Centre for further details. Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) may be considered for relevant prior learning at the same academic level.


Fees and funding

Tuition fees

England £6125 Year 1
Northern Ireland £6125 Year 1
Scotland £6125 Year 1
Wales £6125 Year 1
International £13250 Year 1

Additional fee information

No additional fees or cost information has been supplied for this course, please contact the provider directly.
Outdoor and Experiential Learning (Ambleside) at University of Cumbria - UCAS