Careers in the ORE
Career opportunities in the outdoor industry exist far beyond guiding, outfitting, lodging, and park services. The outdoor recreation industry employs product developers in small and large retailers and creates jobs for highly skilled workers in diverse fields such as policy advocacy, community economic development, manufacturing sustainability, and global commerce.
CU Boulder’s Outdoor Recreation Economy program is designed to meet the needs of individuals looking to break into or advance their career in the outdoor industry, as well as the organizations that comprise the industry itself.
The coursework is career-relevant and responds to the needs expressed by leaders from outdoor retail companies, non-profit organizations, municipal, state and federal agencies, and industry trade groups.
No matter your background, our program offers opportunities for you to update your knowledge and skills to have an immediate impact on your career and community.
Explore sample careers related to three areas of study below.
Find Your Career in the ORE
Admitted Outdoor Recreation Economy students can take advantage of dedicated career counseling services, including high-level strategic planning, skills gap analysis, general career coaching, resume and cover letter building, LinkedIn support, networking, interview preparation and mocking, and more.
Sample Project Courses
In addition to asynchronous subject courses, master's degree and certificate students must also complete synchronous project courses. They are an excellent opportunity for students to explore their area of interest, network with industry leaders, and create portfolio pieces that can be utilized in future positions.
Students apply the concepts, knowledge, and skills gained from other courses within a given certificate to complete a project-based assignment. These courses have an experiential foundation and require collaboration with colleagues, stakeholders, and partner organizations.
Below are two actual examples of projects that previous Outdoor Recreation Economy students have completed.
Have questions about the program? Email us at oreadmin@colorado.edu.