Diploma in Outdoor Environmental Studies
A career that combines environmental studies, exploration and adventure. This diploma equips you with the skills, knowledge and experience to contribute to the leadership of transformative outdoor environmental experiences in natural settings as a guide and scientific interpreter.
In this program you will:
- Learn to navigate diverse terrain using non-motorised modes of travel
- Develop an understanding of environmental management objectives, and learn about unique terrestrial and marine ecosystems and the organisms that inhabit them
- Complete supervised outdoor environmental studies fieldwork (depending on elective choices) in local natural environments and World Heritage Areas
This program is only available to International students
Location
CRICOS code
Duration
Full-time or equivalent part-time Only a full-time option is available to international students on a Student visa. Online programs are not available to Student visa holders.Indicative fees
Indicative 2025 fees (A$)
Annual feeStart
- Semester 1
- Semester 2
Career opportunities
- Entry-level environmental management positions
- Outdoor education leaders
- Outdoor environmental studies
- Start
-
- Semester 1
- Semester 2
- Delivery mode
-
- Blended Learning
- Total courses
- 8
- Total units
- 96
- Duration
- 1 year 1 year
- CRICOS code
- 088627D
- UniSC program code
- ED112
- Program coordinator
Required courses (4) 48 units
Select 4 courses from:
ANM102 Endangered Animals and their Conservation
ANM104 Marine Vertebrates: Sharks, Seabirds, Fish, Turtles and Whales
ENS120 Introduction to Environmental Management
OES100 Outdoor Living and Travel Skills
OES101 Foundations of Outdoor Environmental Studies
OES104 Learning in Australian Landscapes
OES215 Marine Science Education Fieldwork
OES240 Leading Groups in Outdoor Environments
SUS202 Communicating Sustainability
Elective courses (4) 48 units
Select 4 elective courses (48 units) from the undergraduate elective course options which may include the following recommended electives:
ANM103 Animal Form, Function and Evolution
ENS103 Earth's Surface Processes
ENS223 Environmental Impact Assessment
ENS282 Coastal and Marine Ecology
GEO100 The Changing Planet
GEO201 Hydrology and Geomorphology
SCI102 Biodiversity and Ecology
SUS101 Foundations of Sustainability - Investigating Planetary Health
SUS201 Advancing Sustainability: Planet, People and Prosperity
Note: Program structures are subject to change. Not all UniSC courses are available on every UniSC campus. Semester of offer is subject to change, not all courses will be available each semester.
This study sequence reflects the current program structure. Continuing students must follow their commencing structure, which can be found in the previous student handbooks.
International students who have completed studies relevant to the program are eligible for up to four courses credit based on the previous completed studies.
Entry requirements
For entry into most USC undergraduate degree programs, you need to have completed a minimum level of education similar to successful completion of Australian Year 12 with good grades.
Further studies, for example, a semester or more at college or university, can also be considered for entry and may give you credit transfer towards a degree.
Some examples of upper secondary qualifications and a guide to the minimum grades that USC will consider are listed here. These are minimum requirements and do not guarantee entry. Some programs may require higher grades. Alternative qualifications may also be considered on a case by case basis.
If your qualification (grouped by country) is not listed, send the qualification transcripts with your application form to the International Office for assessment.
English language requirements
You will also need to meet the English language requirements for this program. If you do not meet the minimum requirements, you may be able to enrol in our English Language Programs to reach the required level for most of UniSC’s programs (exceptions apply to non-standard English requirement programs).
Additional entry information
Applicants from a non-English speaking background must attain an IELTS (Academic) overall score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each subtest.
- Recommended prior study
- English and at least one of the sciences
In order to graduate you must:
- Successfully complete 96 units as outlined in the Program Structure
Program notes
- Completing this program within the specified (full-time) duration is based on studying 48 unit points per semester (normally 4 courses) and following the recommended study sequence
- The unit value of all courses is 12 units unless otherwise specified
- It is each students responsibility to enrol correctly according to your course requisites, program rules and requirements and be aware of the academic calendar dates
- Courses within this program are assessed using a variety of assessment methods which may include essays, seminar presentations, reports, in-class tests and examinations
- Courses that involve field trips may require a degree of physical fitness and mobility. If you have a disability, medical condition or any concerns that may affect your potential participation in some of the practical components of the program, you are invited to discuss your options with the program coordinator
- Some items of personal equipment will need to be provided/purchased by the students themselves. This would include:
Personal sleeping mat, personal sleeping bag, walking shoes/boots, Backpack, Torch, Daypack - The University will meet most costs of the field trips, but students will be required to pay for their own food. Students may also elect to participate in some additional private trips to refine their skills, knowledge and experience
- Only a full-time study option is available to international students on a Student Visa
- Refer to the Managing your progression page for help in understanding your program structure, reviewing your progress and planning remaining courses.
Prospective students must consider the Inherent Academic Requirements before applying to study this program.
Refer to Bachelor of Recreation and Outdoor Environmental Studies - Inherent Academic Requirements
UniSC strongly supports the rights of all people to pursue studies. The University embraces diversity and endeavours to accommodate all students.
What are Inherent Academic Requirements (IARs)?
The IARs of a program are those fundamental skills, capabilities and knowledge that students must be able to demonstrate in order to achieve the essential learning outcomes of the program, while maintaining the academic integrity of that program.
Students with a disability or chronic health condition may be able to have reasonable adjustments made to enable them to meet these requirements.
UniSC is committed to making reasonable adjustments to teaching and learning, assessment, placement and other activities to enable students to participate in their program.
Reasonable adjustments must not fundamentally change the nature of the IAR.
Consideration is given to a student's cultural and religious background/beliefs, which may impact on participation in their program or course. For further information contact Student Support.
Why are Inherent Academic Requirements (IARs) important?
IARs ensure the academic integrity of a program is maintained and preserves the University's learning, assessment and accreditation processes. They must be met by all students.
How does this affect you?
To successfully complete a program at UniSC, you need to be able to meet all the Inherent Academic Requirements.
If you are applying for a program, you should read the IAR statement carefully to ensure you are able to meet them.
If you have a disability or chronic health condition, contact a UniSC Disability Advisor to talk about the adjustments that may be put in place so you can meet the requirements.
Headstart Program - Years 10 to 12
The Headstart program lets you study uni subjects while you’re still in high school. If you successfully complete two Headstart courses, you’ll get a selection rank that you could use to get into uni.
Early Offer Guarantee scheme - Year 12
The Early Offer Guarantee scheme enables Year 12 students to be offered a place at UniSC on the basis of their Principal's recommendation.
Prior study or work experience
If you:
- have completed Year 12 (no matter how long ago)
- have a TAFE/VET qualification
- have relevant work experience, or
- have studied at university before (even if you didn’t complete your studies)
You may be eligible for a selection rank, which can help you get into uni. For more detailed information selection ranks and how applications are assessed, visit Admissions explained.
Tertiary Preparation Pathway
If you don’t have qualifications or experience that will give you a selection rank, you can complete the Tertiary Preparation Pathway as a stepping stone into most degrees. You can also use TPP to complete subject prerequisites.
If you haven’t studied in a while, TPP is also a great way to brush up on essential study skills like critical reading, assignment writing and referencing.
It can also build your knowledge and confidence in the subject areas you’ll need for your degree, like science or maths. TPP courses are fee-free for eligible domestic students.
Indigenous Direct Entry and Access Scheme (IDEAS)
You may be eligible for direct entry into a UniSC degree based on your potential to succeed, under UniSC’s Indigenous Direct Entry and Access Scheme (IDEAS). All you have to do is complete an online application through our website.
High-school leavers completing year 12 are not eligible, and must apply through QTAC.
- Annual tuition fee (A$, 2025)
- A$24,500
Fee-paying places
A fee-paying place is not covered by any government subsidy, and you are required to pay the full cost of the courses you are studying.
If you accept a fee-paying place, you can defer the cost of your studies via a FEE-HELP loan. Eligibility for a FEE-HELP loan is the same as for a Commonwealth-supported place. You must:
- meet the citizenship and residency requirements
- complete an electronic Commonwealth Assistance Form (eCAF)
- meet the University's entry requirements for your chosen program.
International fee-paying places
Annual tuition fees are based on 2025 rates and the equivalent full-time student load as per the recommended study sequence in the relevant program.
Actual fees payable are based on the actual enrolment load in a teaching period (excluding Study Abroad and Postgraduate Qualifying Pathway).
All prices quoted are in Australian Dollars (A$).
Domestic applicants apply for admission through the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC). Some applicants may be eligible to apply direct to UniSC if they meet certain criteria.
Find out about how to apply and key application closing dates.
No matter what kind of future you’re looking for, you can find it at UniSC. Our programs offer the choice and flexibility you need to get started on any career goal.
Visit How to apply for simple steps to submit your international student application and start your UniSC experience today.
Need help with submitting your application?
UniSC has appointed representatives to assist you with submitting your application and provide information about the steps you need to complete to begin your studies. You can contact a UniSC Representative in your area.
Any questions? Contact us.
Student story
“The teaching staff and their approaches are the best part about UniSC, and I loved taking the learning outside into real environments so often.”
Need advice on what to study or how to apply?
Our Student Central team can help.
Call us +61 7 5430 2890
Email us information@usc.edu.au
For locations and opening hours, visit Student Central.