Outdoor Careers and Universities to Pursue Them

 If you crave a career that goes beyond a traditional office setting, allowing you to breathe in the fresh air and be inspired by nature, there are a wealth of outdoor jobs to explore.

Whether you dream of scaling towering peaks, protecting delicate ecosystems or leading adventure expeditions, the world of outdoor careers offers endless possibilities. In this blog we outline a range of jobs outdoors and some of the universities across Europe in stunning locations that offer courses to help you achieve your career goals.

Jobs in the outdoors 

Outdoor jobs encompass a wide range of professions in fields such as tourism, sports recreation, environmental science, forestry, agriculture and more. If you’re passionate about conservation, adventure or just want to work under open skies, there are numerous opportunities awaiting you:

Outdoor Education: Combine your passion for the outdoors with teaching and inspiring others. Pursue a degree in outdoor education and become an expert in adventure-based learning, leadership development and environmental education.

Environmental Science: Dive deep into the fascinating world of environmental science and play a crucial role in preserving our planet’s natural wonders. From studying biodiversity and conservation to researching climate change and sustainable practices, a degree in environmental science will empower you to make a positive impact on the environment.

Outdoor Photography: Step into a world where your love for the outdoors meets the magic of photography. Becoming an outdoor photographer isn’t just about capturing stunning images; it’s about sharing the beauty of the outdoors with the world and inspiring others to appreciate and protect our planet. 

Ecotourism and Adventure Tourism: If you love travel and adventure you could choose to embark on a career in ecotourism or adventure tourism. With a degree in adventure tourism, you can create unforgettable outdoor experiences, lead expeditions and promote sustainable tourism practices.

Park and Wildlife Management: If you dream of protecting and preserving wildlife, pursuing a career in park and wildlife management is for you. Become a park ranger, wildlife biologist or conservation officer and help safeguard the natural heritage of Europe and beyond.

Outdoor Sports and Recreation: Combine a passion for sports with a love for the outdoors and set out on a path to become a sports coach, adventure guide, outdoor activity instructor or outdoor sports facility manager. Share your expertise and help others experience the thrill of outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, kayaking and more.

Universities in Europe for outdoor careers 

So, you know you want to pursue a career in the outdoors, but what path should you take? Europe is home to some of the world’s top universities that cater to outdoor enthusiasts, with a wide range of programmes designed to launch you into the very best outside jobs. 

University of Cumbria, England, UK 

Situated in the stunning Lake District National Park, the University of Cumbria offers a haven for outdoor lovers. The university’s Institute of Science and Environment offers specialised courses in conservation, outdoor education, adventure sports and leadership, making it an ideal destination for anyone seeking a career in the field.

The beautiful location provides access to diverse outdoor activities including hiking, climbing, kayaking and mountaineering. 

Technical University of Munich, Germany 

Nestled in the heart of Bavaria, the Technical University of Munich (TUM) is one of the leading universities in Germany and Europe, known for its strong focus on engineering, natural sciences and technology. TUM offers a Bachelor’s programme in Sports Science, which includes courses on outdoor sports and recreational activities. They also have a Master’s programme in Sustainable Resource Management, focusing on environmental aspects of outdoor activities.

Boasting a privileged location near the Alps, there is a wealth of recreational outdoor opportunities year-round and countless opportunities to explore, learn and gain hands-on experience in your field of interest. 

University of Innsbruck, Austria 

Located in the heart of the Austrian Alps, the University of Innsbruck provides an exceptional setting, with awesome ski resorts and world-class facilities for winter sports. The university’s Department of Sports Science offers courses in mountain sports and outdoor education.

It’s an ideal destination for skiing, snowboarding and ice climbing. In the summer, the mountains offer opportunities for hiking, mountaineering, paragliding and other adventure sports. 

University of Savoie Mont Blanc, France 

The University of Savoie Mont Blanc provides an idyllic backdrop with world-class ski resorts, alpine trails and crystal-clear lakes at its doorstep. Here you can go skiing, snowboarding, mountaineering, paragliding and more. The university’s Institute of Mountain Studies offers specialised courses, including sustainable tourism, mountain sports and environmental conservation. 

Falmouth University, England, UK 

If you have a passion for photography and want to use it to inspire people about the environment, Falmouth University has a renowned Institute of Photography that offers a degree course in Marine & Natural History Photography (BA Hons). On this course, the outdoors becomes your studio! Learn how to communicate scientific ideas and conservation stories through still and moving images, and raise awareness of global issues including habitat loss, climate change and plastic pollution.  

University of Padua, Italy 

The University of Padua, one of the oldest universities in Italy, has renowned departments in environmental sciences and biology and is situated nearby the Dolomite Mountains. Whether you are interested in environmental science, sustainable tourism, outdoor recreation management, adventure sports or conservation biology, the university provides courses that equip you with the knowledge and skills demanded by the industry.

One of their newest degree courses which is taught in English – Earth and Climate Dynamics (BA Hons) – is aimed at providing students with the skills needed for facing the challenges associated with climate change. 

Bangor University, Wales, UK 

Nestled just a few miles from the stunning Eryri National Park, Bangor University provides access to breathtaking mountains, pristine lakes and a rugged coastline offering endless opportunities for outdoor exploration and adventure.

The university has a strong focus on outdoor pursuits and offers a variety of courses and programmes related to outdoor activities including courses in environmental conservation, oceanography, adventure sport science, geology and marine biology.  

University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI), Scotland, UK 

With its exceptional location amidst beautiful landscapes and natural beauty, UHI stands out as an ideal choice for students seeking to fulfil their passion for the outdoors. The university provides a range of programmes related to outdoor activities through its School of Adventure Studies, including adventure tourism, environmental science, marine and coastal tourism and outdoor education.

Their range of degrees and one–year courses are delivered from their base in Fort William, at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Scotland. 

University of Tromsø, Norway 

Located in the Arctic wonderland of Tromsø in Norway, the University of Tromsø (also known as UiT The Arctic University of Norway) offers unique outdoor experiences in the land of the Northern Lights.

Whether you’re interested in marine biology, climate change, indigenous cultures or polar research, studying at UiT allows you to explore and understand the unique ecosystems and challenges of the Arctic. You can also learn about sustainable tourism and outdoor guiding in the Arctic via the university’s Arctic Adventure Tourism degree course.

University of Exeter, England, UK 

The University of Exeter is consistently ranked as one of the top universities in the UK. There are a range of academic programmes that align with outdoor-related interests within the Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy, including environmental science, geography, marine biology and more.

Situated in the heart of the picturesque county of Devon, surrounded by stunning natural landscapes such as Dartmoor National Park and the beautiful coastline, there are ample opportunities for recreational outdoor activities too, including hiking, rock climbing, surfing and sailing. You can easily access these areas from the university campus, allowing you to explore and enjoy the outdoors during your studies.  

Europe is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, and these ten universities serve as gateways to unforgettable experiences and unique career opportunities. From protecting delicate ecosystems to leading adventure expeditions, the possibilities are limitless.

Whether you’re teaching others about the environment, preserving natural wonders, capturing its beauty through photography or promoting sustainable tourism, these outdoor careers open the door to a life filled with adventure, purpose and a deep connection with nature.