The Inclusivity in the ORE graduate certificate focuses on developing a more welcoming and inclusive outdoor recreation economy and expanding access to the outdoors to everyone by offering students tools and strategies to effectively lead the transition to a more equitable outdoor industry. Students enrolled in the certificate will learn global best practices in inclusivity through coursework, resources and access to thought leaders who are guiding global organizations to a more diverse and inclusive future. The certificate has an intention to create a safe space for deep learning, honest exploration, and open dialogue.

At the end of this certificate, students should be able to:

  • communicate the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion and access within the Outdoor Recreation Economy.
  • identify opportunities for increasing access and inclusion within the outdoor recreation economy.
  • lead outdoor industry organizations in developing diverse and inclusive recruiting and hiring practices.
  • recognize and champion the outdoor recreation economy’s role in addressing issues of diversity, equity, inclusivity and outdoor access in  all communities.
  • play a leadership role in creating a natural environment where all people feel not only welcome but encouraged to become active participants as outdoor enthusiasts, industry professionals, and stewards dedicated to the protection of the land.

Course Descriptions

Asynchronous Subject Course

We start by creating a safe space for deep learning, honest exploration, and open dialogue. This course will expand your knowledge and understanding around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Everyone has the right to be treated fairly with dignity and respect. These are our human rights. Building a community, work environment, and society that is diverse, inclusive, equitable, and just requires a foundation from which to develop. DEI is an ongoing learning process and requires commitment, personal leadership, and accountability. This course will enable students to be a part of developing an  inclusive foundation for their respective organizations and communities with knowledge, tools, and best practices from global leaders within the outdoor recreation economy and beyond. The course sets the intention to be a stepping stone to help break down the barriers to entry and participation, while creating a more inclusive natural environment where all people can not only feel welcome but encouraged to become active participants as outdoor enthusiasts, industry professionals/leaders, and stewards dedicated to the protection of the land.

At the end of the course, students should be able to:

  • describe what Equality, Diversity and Inclusion is and explain why it matters in organizations, communities, and society at large.
  • be familiar with DEI concepts and language.
  • evaluate the business benefits which arise from maintaining a diverse workforce and ORE industry.
  • examine the key challenges for DEI within the ORE and understand possible solutions
. (inclusive of barriers to entry and participation) 
  • understand legal frameworks that can help strengthen an inclusive foundation in the workplace.
  • conduct an inquiry-based process to advance DEI-forward policies and operations in the workplace.
  • have awareness of their own implicit biases and learn ways to consciously build more inclusive environments.

Additional coursework in the Inclusivity in the Outdoor Recreation Economy certificate will be announced in the coming months, with the full certificate launch planned for Fall 2023.