faq's
What types of students participate in the CORE Program?
CORE students come from a variety of backgrounds. Most are undergraduates, primarily juniors and seniors, who major or minor in Outdoor Recreation and Resource Management. It is not uncommon for students from other disciplines to take CORE, and this often adds a broader spectrum of ideas and enhances interdisciplinary communication. Graduate students are also eligible and have regularly participated in the program.
How does the selection process for becoming a member of CORE work?
CORE students are selected on the basis of their application and a brief interview to determine if the goals of the applicant are congruent with the goals of the program. Priority is given to upperclassmen in the recreation department, although all students interested in the program are encouraged to apply.
How might I benefit from this program?
Download your CORE application here
CORE provides a unique and challenging opportunity for extensive professional and personal development. The benefits of the CORE experience extend well beyond the technical skills and certifications. The combination of academics and experiential learning components, works together to enhance participants’ understanding of adventure education, natural resource management and outdoor leadership. Students will develop group living skills while at the same time develop and practice individual leadership skills.
What are my responsibilities?
Students accepted into the CORE program are expected to be active participants, both in the classroom and out in the field. Course assignments will include papers and projects, as well as classroom and field presentations. The program is intensive, demanding of both time and energy. The more effort each student puts in the greater the success at the end.
What kind of experience do I need?
More important than the skills one already possesses is the willingness to try new things and the desire to learn. Students are not expected to have extensive field experience. However, some experience in the out-of–doors is beneficial. The CORE program facilitates learning through exposure to different activities in a variety of settings, with the intention of establishing a solid foundation upon which participants can continue to build.
What costs are covered by the $1,900 activity fee?
The fee covers food, transportation, some group equipment and lodging costs for most of the field experiences. It also covers individual certification fees (e.g., Wilderness First Responder, Fundamentals of Search and Rescue). Students are responsible for supplying the basic personal equipment expected of professional outdoor instructors and purchasing their own textbooks.
Can I take other classes and do CORE at the same time?
The amount of time and energy that CORE demands does not allow for students to take classes outside those offered through the program. When students register for CORE they register for all the courses in the CORE block at the same time. Substitutions for a class that a student has already taken prior to CORE can be made on an individual basis.
Is CORE offered in the fall or summer term?
The program is currently only offered in the spring term.
What type of gear will I need?
Students are expected to provide personal gear, consistent with that expected of professional outdoor instructors. This includes, but is not limited to, personal clothing suitable for living in the out-of-doors for extended lengths of time, a sleeping system (sleeping bag, ensolite pad, ground sheet), a backpack, and backpacking boots. A detailed equipment list is provided for all CORE students upon acceptance.
How many credits can I earn through CORE?
Undergraduate students can currently earn up to 17 credits, although the courses and number of credits offered are subject to change. 160 of the 320 professional development hours required for an Outdoor Recreation and Resource Management degree may also be fulfilled. Graduate students can earn up to 13 credits for their participation in the program.