The UW Outdoor Guide Certification course is an online training certification course offered through the University of Wyoming Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources, Outdoor Recreation and Tourism Management Program.
The course is an online, standardized, competency-based training program, designed
to provide aspiring or established guides the knowledge and skills they need to thrive
in the industry, regardless of their area of outdoor expertise. If you are considering
becoming or growing as a rock climbing, rafting, hunting, wildlife viewing, fishing,
cycling, hiking, snowmobiling, ATVing, horseback riding, skiing, paddle sports (or
any other form of outdoor guide) this training is specifically designed for you!
The course contains videos from industry experts, readings, discussions, knowledge
checks, and short assignments. It is self-paced and flexible and should take approximately
32 hours to complete. Outdoor guide employers can use this course to supplement or
enhance any internal training program already offered. Competency areas include 1)
becoming a more effective outdoor educator, 2) improving naturalist skills, and 3)
developing professional skills.
Students must obtain (or have) and maintain a current First Aid and CPR or greater (e.g., Wilderness First Aid, Wilderness First Responder, etc.) certification after successful completion of the outdoor guide course.
Upcoming dates/registration links:
September 8 - October 20, 2025 (link to this course will become available after the enrollment deadline to the previous course)
January 5--February 16, 2026
March 30--May 11, 2026
Was the course above booked? Do you Want to be notified when a future course opens?
Sign up for our waiting list to be the first inline next time!
For additional dates, please contact Dr. Dan McCoy: dan.mccoy@uwyo.edu
Enrollment caps and price:
Max enrollment: 30
Price: $325
Q: How much background or experience do I need to take this course?
A: We have had students with no background or experience and people with decades of outdoor leadership experience take the course. Both report that this course provided them with a lot of great ideas and tools they will take with them into the field.
Q: Are there mandatory times I need to attend the course?
A: No. The course is self-paced. You can complete the course as fast or slow as you want. However, you must complete the course in the time period listed, typically six weeks.
Q: Is there a syllabus for the course?
A: Yes, please see the syllabus here.
Q: How is the course structured?
A: The course is structured into distinct modules. Each module has readings, short videos, assignments, and quizzes. You must complete all modules, assignments, and quizzes satisfactory. Grading is satisfactory/unsatisfactory. There is an instructor who grades all assignments and monitors your completion of the course.
Q: Do I need to apply to UW to be a student?
A: No, the Outdoor Guide Certification course is non-credit. You do not need to be a UW student. A for-credit option is available. See the Professional Development Credit option, above.
Q: Can I register late?
A: Yes, we typically allow registration up to one week after the course starts. Late registration does not affect your ability to complete the course as long as you complete the course prior to the last day of the course.
Q: What will I receive upon successful completion?
A: You will receive a certification in the form of a certificate you can print. In addition, you will be emailed a digital logo for web sites.
Q: What happens if I do not complete the course?
A: We do not provide refunds for individuals who start but do not complete the course except for extenuating circumstances. Please contact the instructor to request accommodations.
Students seeking Professional Development Credit (e.g., PDU or CEUs) such as teachers, school districts, foundations, and other non-governmental agencies, can elect to receive credit for this course. These credits are primarily used by practicing teachers who have already completed a bachelors degree. Please note several important details about these credits:
If you are interested in this option, complete the following steps (in this order):
Testimonials:
“The Outdoor Guide Certification course developed by the University of Wyoming is
a significant step toward professionalizing the outdoor guiding industry in Wyoming
and beyond. It gives the next generation of guides the tools and qualifications needed
to share, interpret, and help conserve National Parks and public lands everywhere.”
Katy Canetta, Grand Teton National Park Concessions Office.
University of Wyoming
Bim Kendall House
804 E Fremont St
Laramie, WY 82072
Phone: (307) 766-5080
Fax: (307) 766-5099
Email: haub.school@uwyo.edu
