Master of Outdoor Adventure and Expedition Leadership FAQs
Who should I email if I have questions regarding the MOAEL program?
Email the MOAEL graduate program coordinator, Adam Elson, at elsona@sou.edu
Should I send transcripts from institutions other than my primary undergraduate institution(s)?
Yes! If you received any credits from studying abroad, community college, summer courses, concurrent or AP (Advanced Placement) tests, you will need to send those in addition to transcripts from your undergraduate institution(s), even if those credits appear on your undergraduate transcript. Your file will not be considered complete until we have official copies of those transcripts.
Is it possible to complete this program online?
No. The MOAEL program takes place entirely on campus and in the field. There is no online component.
Can I send unofficial transcripts via email or snail mail?
Your file will not be considered complete until you submit official transcripts. Your institution(s) must send transcripts directly to the Office of Admissions in sealed envelopes or through a secure email that requires a login. All other forms of transcripts will not be considered for acceptance into Southern Oregon University.
Do I need to take the GRE to apply?
No, you do not need to take the GRE to apply to the MOAEL degree program.
Are there any graduate assistantships for the program?
There are several graduate assistantships offered through the Outdoor Adventure Leadership program. See the GA Positions tab for details about each position, specific benefits, and how to apply if interested.
How long does it take to get a Master of Outdoor Adventure & Expedition Leadership?
It takes five consecutive quarters, starting in the fall and ending the following fall term. This includes the summer term.
What scholarships are available for outdoor and adventure education?
There are scholarships available for our degree program, but unfortunately, they are not located all in one spot. A simple google search will lead you to a few opportunities. We encourage you to reach out and create opportunities for yourself and future students. Here are a few to get you started: 25 Great Scholarships for Outdoor Education Majors
What are the approximate costs of the MOAEL program?
The total cost of the program will vary for each student. Tuition rates for resident and non-resident students can be found here. You are required to complete a minimum of 51 credits for the program. At $430 for each graduate credit, tuition for Oregon residents could range from $21,930 to $24,510.
The MOAEL program is honored to be designated as a Western Regional Graduate Program. Students who apply and accepted to this program from Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Guam, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming pay the in-state graduate tuition rate.
Additional costs will include the summer international expedition, attending two conferences during the program (one will be the AORE conference during the first fall term), a cohort field experience during the first fall term, and the spring field-intensive experience. Please check out the AORE web site for details about the cost and location of the conference. Typically the AORE conference will cost about $460 for student registration plus lodging and travel. To make sure students can attend the conference and apply financial aid towards the class, there is a $1000 course fee attached to OAL 525 Research Methods in Adventure Programming and OAL 503 Thesis to help pay for the conference costs. The international expedition cost will vary according to the destination, activities planned, and daily living allowance. Typical living costs are $50 a day for food and lodging. Plane prices can vary and can be purchased with personal air miles if you so choose. The average length of an expedition ranges from 30 to 40 days. Additional costs will depend on specific activities which will be determined by the cohort. When everything is said and done, the additional cost of an international expedition can range from $3000 to $8000. The Fall Self-Assessment course will have a $450 course fee for a fall group expedition experience. The Spring Guiding Field Practicum will have a $1000 course fee attached for food, transportation, and gear expenses. Financial Aid is available for additional course fees.
Can I transfer graduate credits into the program?
A student may include 16 quarter credits of approved graduate coursework taken prior to regular admission to a master’s degree program at the University. This limitation applies to coursework taken at Southern Oregon University and coursework transferred from other institutions. Such courses must be appropriate for the MOAEL program and must be approved by the graduate program coordinator. All transfer credit must be supported by official transcripts sent directly from the school of origin to Admissions.
If you still have questions regarding the application process or have any other inquiries about this graduate program, please do not hesitate to contact us at elsona@sou.edu.
Contact the Outdoor Adventure Leadership Program
SOU Outdoor Adventure Leadership Program
1250 Siskiyou Blvd.
Ashland, OR 97520
541.552.6526
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