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Bachelor's Degree

Ecotourism Minor

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Why Pursue an Ecotourism Minor?

Ecotourism is responsible travel that supports biodiversity conservation, builds environmental and cultural awareness and respect, and contributes to local economic and social development. The ecotourism minor combines multidisciplinary knowledge and skills related to ecotourism, protected area management, outdoor recreation, environmental science, and business administration. The ecotourism minor seeks to empower those who plan and implement ecotourism-related activities to see themselves as responsible hosts and stewards of earth’s most incredible natural resources.

Ecotourism Minor Sample Courses

World Ecotourism Destinations and Cultures

This course is a study of top ecotourism destinations around the world. Students will learn about the cultures, environments, and tourist sites that draw tourists to each destination. Students will also learn about push/pull travel motivations, basic tourism theory, and leisure of different cultures.

Interpreting Culture and Nature

This course seeks to develop the knowledge and abilities necessary to plan high-quality cultural/natural interpretation. After the course, students will understand audiences and the significances of resources so that they may select appropriate techniques for the creation of programs, products, and services. They will discuss, compare, and put into practice diverse theories, perspectives, methodologies, and interpretive tools.

Issues in Sustainable and Ecotourism

A capstone course that explores the many facets of ecotourism in a research and seminar format. Special attention will be paid to ecotourism as a responsible form of tourism in which protecting natural environments and cultures while improving local economies are the primary goals. Students will learn about using ecotourism as a means of protecting green space and integrating local people into the tourism process in all stages of development.

Meet the Faculty

Aaron Conover

Director of Norton Outdoor Adventures and Instructor of Ecotourism and Recreation Leadership