FdSc Adventure Sport
Course Details
-
Department
Adventure Sport -
Qualification
Level 4 -
Course Type
Full Time -
Length
2 Years -
Location(s)
York
Course at a glance
Launch your adventure with Askham Bryan University Centre's Outdoor Adventure Sport Foundation Degree! Develop your practical skills in rock climbing, white-water kayaking, mountaineering, caving, and canyoneering, while mastering the theory that underpins safe and effective outdoor leadership. Gain industry-recognised qualifications, build confidence in real-world environments, and prepare to become a leader in the adventure sports industry.
UCAS Code
C5T5
Centre Code
A70
What you will learn
Our dynamic programme combines hands-on learning, epic outdoor trips, and expert guidance, giving you the experience and knowledge to thrive locally, nationally, and internationally opening the door to exciting careers in one of the UK’s fastest-growing sectors.
Our programme has strong links with industry partners, giving you valuable insight into the real-world adventure sector and helping you build professional networks from day one. You’ll have opportunities to work alongside other college groups and industry professionals, gaining authentic experience that reflects the demands of the outdoor industry.
Alongside this, you can achieve industry-recognised National Governing Body qualifications, enhancing your employability and giving you a competitive edge.
This course is 2-years full time (part-time study may also be available – contact he@askham-bryan.ac.uk for more information about part-time study).
Modules:
- Fundamental Skills for Rock, Mountain and Complex Environments
- Leading Water-based Activities
- Sociology for Adventure Sport
- Strength and Conditioning
- Environmental Education
Modules:
- Leading Rock and Mountainous Terrains
- Sustainable Expeditions
- Launching your Adventure Sport Career
- Psychology of Adventure Sport
- Independent Research Project
Key Information
64 UCAS Points (2026/27 entry)
5 GCSEs including Maths, English and Science at Grade C/4 or above. Equivalent qualifications may be accepted in lieu of GCSEs. Applicants must have successfully completed a full Level 3 study and/or have significant industry experience.
Some students may be asked to attend an interview.
Applicants who believe they may be eligible for Accreditation of Prior Certificated and/or Experiential Learning (APCL/APEL) will be considered on an individual basis.
If you have any queries in relation to entry qualifications, please contact the University Centre directly.
On successful completion, graduates may wish to consider progressing onto a top-up course to allow achievement of a BSc or BSc (Hons) degree. Students should discuss with their course manager regarding suitable relevant programmes and entry criteria.
Students completing the course may enter a wide variety of roles in adventure sports and related industries:
Outdoor and Adventure Careers
1. Outdoor Activity Instructor – Leading groups in activities like climbing, kayaking, mountain biking, etc.
2. Adventure Tour Guide – Guiding adventure travel experiences locally or internationally.
3. Expedition Leader – Planning and leading expeditions in remote or challenging environments.
4. Mountain Leader / Climbing Instructor – Specializing in mountain environments and climbing instruction.
5. Watersports Instructor – Teaching kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, or sailing.
Education and Youth Work
6. Outdoor Education Instructor – Working in schools or outdoor centers to deliver educational programs.
7. Youth Worker (Adventure-Based) – Using adventure sports to engage and support young people.
8. Forest School Leader – Running nature-based learning sessions for children.
Health, Fitness, and Therapy
9. Personal Trainer / Fitness Coach – Specializing in outdoor fitness or adventure-based training.
10. Adventure Therapy Facilitator – Using outdoor activities for therapeutic purposes.
11. Rehabilitation Assistant (Outdoor Focus) – Supporting physical or mental health recovery through activity.
Environmental and Conservation Roles
12. Conservation Ranger – Working in national parks or reserves, often involving physical outdoor work.
13. Environmental Educator – Teaching about nature and sustainability through outdoor experiences.
Business and Management
14. Adventure Tourism Entrepreneur – Starting your own adventure travel or outdoor business.
15. Outdoor Centre Manager – Overseeing operations at an adventure or education center.
16. Event Coordinator (Adventure Sports) – Organizing races, festivals, or outdoor events.
Media and Communication
17. Adventure Photographer/Videographer – Capturing and sharing outdoor experiences.
18. Outdoor Blogger/Vlogger – Creating content around adventure sports and travel.
Further Study and Specialization
19. Progression to BSc in Outdoor Education, Sports Science, or Environmental Studies
20. Teaching Qualification (PGCE) – To become a qualified teacher in physical education or outdoor learning.
UK, Isle of Man and Channel Isles Students on BSc Honours Degree/ BSc (Hons) Top up/ Foundation Degree/ Extended Foundation Degree/ Certificate of Higher Education Fees:
2026/27 = £9,525 per academic year
Please note that the fee status of each applicant will be assessed prior to any offer being made (Home Fee or Overseas/International Fee). Where required further information may be requested ensure the correct fee status is allocated. For further information about on studying in the UK and fee status, please visit UKCISA
Non-Home (Overseas Students) on Honours Degree/ Foundation Degree/ Extended Foundation Degree/ Certificate of Higher Education Fees:
2026/27 = £14,500 per academic year
Fees are charged per academic year of the course. Please note that is any restudy is required there will be tuition fees associated with this. Please refer further guidance and information on tuition fees and additional costs – Student Finance
Please note: fee information is correct as at the time of issue; tuition fees may also be subject to an inflationary increase which will be reviewed annually, inline with UK Government and Office for Students guidelines on permitted tuition fee levels.
The programme requires students to undertake 300 hours of work placement, with 150 hours completed each academic year. Work placement is undertaken with an external provider which is arranged by the student.
All work placements are subject to a health and safety check by the college to ensure that placements are suitable and safe. Support can be made available via the course manager to help source and suitable placement.
If you are already working in the sector, it may be possible to APEL (accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning) this element of the programme. Evidence of such employment will be needed, outlining duties etc for consideration at the APL panel, where applications will be considered on an individual basis. If you have any queries in relation to this, then please contact the University Centre team directly.
Students will engage in a range of engaging assessment methods to shape their subject expertise, in addition to transferable skills and graduate attributes.
Students will undertake traditional coursework and presentations, time-constrained assessments and practical activities to link theory with real-world applications.
These costs are in addition to tuition fees and accommodation (where applicable). Students will need to plan and budget for some extra costs as part of this course, which you need to pay for yourself.
Below is a list with approximate additional course costs to help with your planning and budgeting.