Bachelor of Outdoor and Environmental Education (CRICOS course code 085612B) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Federation University Australia over 3 years. This program is designed for students passionate about the outdoors, environmental stewardship, and education. It falls under the field of Human Movement (069903) within the Health discipline, blending theoretical knowledge with practical outdoor skills. Graduates are prepared for careers in outdoor education, eco-tourism, environmental interpretation, and community health. The course is offered at Federation University's campuses in Ballarat and Churchill (Gippsland), both in regional Victoria. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00103D), Federation University adheres to Australian Government quality standards for international education. All international students are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring tuition assurance and consumer rights. The indicative total cost is A$87,585, including tuition and non-tuition fees. Note: fees are set by the institution and subject to change. This course includes a mandatory work component, giving students hands-on industry experience. Whether you aim to lead outdoor expeditions or teach environmental sustainability, this degree offers a unique pathway.
The Bachelor of Outdoor and Environmental Education is a three-year full-time bachelor degree at AQF Level 7. It is dual-qualification: No. It does not include foundation studies and is not a VET course. The language of instruction is English. The course features a 10-week work-integrated learning component (approximately 360 hours) to build real-world skills. The field of education is 06 Health, subfield 0699 Other Health, detailed 069903 Human Movement. This degree focuses on the relationship between human movement and natural environments, preparing students to facilitate outdoor experiences that promote health, well-being, and environmental awareness. Federation University Australia, a government-owned institution, has been educating students for over 150 years and is known for its strong connections to regional communities. The course is registered on CRICOS, ensuring it meets Australian quality standards for international students. All providers listed on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, and data is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026).
This degree equips students with a comprehensive understanding of human movement in outdoor contexts, environmental education principles, and risk management. Typical learning outcomes include designing and leading outdoor programs, interpreting natural environments for educational purposes, fostering environmental stewardship, and applying experiential learning theories. Students develop leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills through practical activities such as bushwalking, canoeing, and ropes courses. The curriculum also covers environmental science, sustainability, and community engagement. While specific subjects may vary, the overall program is grounded in the human movement discipline (069903), emphasizing the physical and psychological benefits of outdoor activity. Federation University's approach integrates Indigenous perspectives on land and place, adding depth to the educational experience. Graduates are equipped to work in schools, outdoor adventure companies, national parks, and community health organizations. The course's combination of theoretical and practical learning ensures students are job-ready upon graduation.
The Bachelor of Outdoor and Environmental Education runs for 3 years (156 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. It is offered as a full-time program with English as the language of instruction. This is a single qualification (no dual degree) and does not include integrated foundation studies. The course is not part of the VET sector; it is a higher education bachelor degree. Students are expected to engage in on-campus learning, practical fieldwork, and self-directed study. The duration allows for depth in both theoretical and practical components, including the 10-week work-integrated learning placement. International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions. Federation University provides support for international students, including academic skills development and English language assistance. The course structure is designed to be completed within the standard 3-year timeframe, but extensions may be possible with provider approval.
The indicative tuition fee for the entire program is A$86,700, as sourced from the CRICOS register. Non-tuition fees (such as student services and amenities fees) amount to approximately A$885, bringing the estimated total to A$87,585. These fees are set by Federation University Australia and are subject to change; always verify current fees on the provider's website. Additional costs not included: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – mandatory for international students – typically costs A$600–$800 per year for single cover. Living expenses in Ballarat or Churchill are generally lower than in Melbourne. Indicative weekly costs: rent A$200–$300 for shared accommodation, groceries A$80–$100, transport A$30–$50, with a total cost of living around A$20,000 per year (single student). The Department of Home Affairs requires evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The visa application charge (currently A$1,600) is also additional. HeadStart Academy strongly recommends budgeting for all expenses and consulting the provider's financial page for fee schedules.
General entry requirements for the Bachelor of Outdoor and Environmental Education include an overall IELTS score of 6.0–6.5 with no band below 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent English test results such as TOEFL or PTE). Academically, applicants must hold an Australian Year 12 certificate or equivalent international qualification meeting the university's minimum entry requirements. Previous study in physical education, biology, or outdoor ed is beneficial but not mandatory. Federation University may offer pathway programs such as Foundation Studies or diploma courses for students who do not meet direct entry requirements. These pathways allow progression to the bachelor degree upon successful completion. International students should check specific academic requirements for their country on the Federation University website. All applicants must demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status as part of the visa process. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration advice; consult a MARA agent for visa guidance.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component of 10 weeks, with an unspecified number of hours per week, totaling approximately 360 hours. This practical placement may take the form of an industry internship, supervised fieldwork, or a community-based project in outdoor education or environmental settings. Students might work in national parks, outdoor adventure centers, schools, or environmental NGOs. The placement provides hands-on experience in leading groups, delivering educational programs, and managing outdoor activities. It is designed to develop professional competencies and enhance employability. Federation University's strong industry connections in regional Victoria ensure a range of placement opportunities. The work component is integrated into the curriculum and assessed. International students are eligible to undertake this placement as part of their course, and it may count toward the student visa work limitations if unpaid. For specific placement arrangements, contact the provider directly.
This course is delivered at two of Federation University's campuses: Ballarat (main campus) and Churchill (Gippsland campus). Ballarat, located about 90 minutes from Melbourne, is a historic city with a population of over 110,000. It has a vibrant student community, with several CRICOS-registered providers and a relatively low cost of living. Public transport includes trains to Melbourne and local buses. Churchill is a town in Gippsland, approximately 150 km east of Melbourne, with a population around 5,000. The campus is close to natural attractions like Lakes Entrance and the Strzelecki Ranges, ideal for outdoor education. Living costs in both areas are lower than in Melbourne, with average rent around A$200–$300 per week. The number of CRICOS-registered institutions in Ballarat is estimated at 5–10, offering a range of courses. Regional Victoria offers a quieter, more nature-focused lifestyle that complements this degree. Students can enjoy accessible outdoor recreation areas, from Grampians National Park to Wilsons Promontory.
International students enrolling in this course must obtain a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for CRICOS course 085612B, genuine temporary entrant (GTE) declaration, sufficient financial capacity (tuition + living costs + travel), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire stay. Work rights: 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks, subject to visa conditions. Students must maintain full-time enrolment and satisfactory course progress. The ESOS Act provides consumer protection, including tuition assurance and fee refunds if the provider fails to deliver. Health cover (OSHC) is mandatory and typically costs A$600–$800 per year for single cover. The Department of Home Affairs website has full details. HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice; consult a registered MARA agent for personalised visa assistance.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Bachelor of Outdoor and Environmental Education at Federation University Australia:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Verify that Federation University Australia is CRICOS-registered (00103D) and that this course (085612B) is on the CRICOS register. Use HeadStart Academy or the official CRICOS website (cricos.teqsa.gov.au) to check.
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Visit Federation University's website to review specific entry requirements, including English language scores (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE), academic transcripts, and application deadlines. Submit your application online or through an authorised education agent. Ensure you provide all required documents.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you will receive a CoE. Use this to apply for a student visa via the Department of Home Affairs. Arrange OSHC cover and demonstrate financial capacity. For visa assistance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA).
Pursuing an outdoor education degree requires a passion for the natural world and a willingness to work in physically demanding settings. Consider your career goals: graduates often work as outdoor instructors, environmental educators, or park rangers. This field suits those who enjoy hands-on, dynamic work rather than desk-based roles. Location matters – regional Victoria offers rich access to natural environments but may have fewer amenities than big cities. Federation University's campuses provide strong local connections, but you may need to relocate. Financial considerations: while fees are lower than some metro universities, living costs in regional areas are affordable. Also assess the work component: practical placements require flexibility and may involve travel. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, so compare similar programs. HeadStart Academy is a free resource with no referral fees, helping you make an informed choice. Remember, ESOS protections apply to all CRICOS courses, ensuring your rights as an international student.
Ready to start your outdoor education journey? Apply directly to Federation University Australia today.
Bachelor of Outdoor and Environmental Education is a CRICOS-registered programme at Federation University Australia. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.