MSc Study in Outdoor Education
This page gives an overview of issues to consider in the MSc process and our views on creating a stimulating environment where students enjoy studying and successfully complete their degrees.
Through our experience of over 35 years, we have talked with current and former students, reviewed other programmes and practices, and taken a lot of time to understand factors that influence MSc students' experiences. In addition to the specific subject area research students study, the quality of supervision, and the institution, we have found that the learning environment has a strong influence on students learning experience. The University of Edinburgh in general and the Outdoor Education Section in particular has created a strong learning community supporting students and making their MSc experience more productive and enjoyable.
Throughout your MSc studies, your main point of contact will be your supervisor. You will meet with them regularly and they will assist you in completing your study—including guiding you with specific aspects of your research, your research training and introducing you to other MSc students and University staff when appropriate.
Registering to complete an MSc in Outdoor Education at the University of Edinburgh is possible in two ways:
1. Direct entry. Students with significant experience in the field of outdoor education register for the MSc and complete 120 credits of taught courses at the university and then embark on the dissertation worth a further 60 credits. Approximately two years full-time (or equivalent part time) employment will normally be the minimum requirement (the Professional Development Programme counts towards this) for acceptance to this pathway. In this way students gain a total of 180 credits and can graduate with an MSc.
2. PG Diploma route. Students complete a post graduate diploma in Outdoor Education, gain two years of practical experience and complete the Masters dissertation.
Additionally, two other MSc possibilities may be of interest. Students can complete the taught part of the MSc by Research (Education) or the taught part of the MSc Education and then complete a MSc dissertation specialising in outdoor education. Note that students following this pathway receive either an MSc by Research (Education) or MSc Education and not an MSc Outdoor Education.
If you are interested in applying for an MSc please read through the FAQ page. Prospective students might also be interested in reading the guide to the dissertation.
Further details including a course rationale and learning outcomes are available on the dissertation page. There's also a list of recently completed MSc dissertations.
