PgCert Outdoor and Adventure Therapeutic Practice at University of the Highlands and Islands

Programme overview

The PgCert Outdoor and Adventure Therapeutic Practice is a part-time postgraduate certificate for people wishing to work therapeutically in outdoor and adventure settings. It examines the theory and evidence base for outdoor and adventure therapies and builds reflective practice in forming therapeutic relationships. It is studied in 60 credits through online and on-campus learning with residential periods at Fort William.

Duration: 1-2 years part-time | Intake: September | Study mode: part-time | Location: Inverness, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Three core modules: Theoretical basis of outdoor and adventure therapies, Reflexive therapeutic practice in outdoor environments, and Therapeutic programming in outdoor and adventure practice.

Career pathways

Expedition-based therapeutic programmes, work with vulnerable groups such as child and adolescent mental health services or criminal justice, outdoor facilitation and education leadership roles, and enterprise in outdoor development and adventure tourism.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A 2:1 honours degree or above. Alternatively an honours, ordinary or equivalent degree plus relevant work experience at a suitable level will be considered. Applicants are also assessed on experiential and professional qualifications in therapeutic knowledge, outdoor competence and relevant professional experience, ideally in two of these three areas, case by case.

Domestic applicants: GBP 1,941 for the whole programme (2026/27). Scotland-domiciled students; whole PgCert (3 modules, 60 credits) Source

International applicants: GBP 3,817 for the whole programme (2026/27). Whole PgCert (3 modules, 60 credits) for students studying online from outside the UK or assessed as international; not available to students needing Student Route visa sponsorship Source

Intake: September

Duration: 1-2 years part-time

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