Search Results for: Outdoor Recreation Leadership

Outdoor Recreation Leadership - Tuition/Costs

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Outdoor Recreation Leadership Tuition and Costs

Don’t go deep into debt. Find your affordable education here!

Thanks to the financial support of our mountain communities, Colorado Mountain College offers a quality education at a price you can afford. Our tuition is one of the lowest in Colorado, and is lower than in-state tuition in many other states.

Tuition & Costs for 2022 - 2023 Academic Year

map thumbnail: CMC District

In-district Tuition


$95/credit-hour
Associate & Bachelor's


$120/credit-hour
BA Education


$135/credit-hour
BS Nursing

graphic - CMC in-state map

In-state Tuition


$195/credit-hour
Associate & Bachelor's


$220/credit-hour
BA Education


$235/credit-hour
BS Nursing

graphic - CMC out of state map

Out-of-state Tuition


$480/credit-hour
Associate & Bachelor's


$505/credit-hour
BA Education


$520/credit-hour
BS Nursing

Summer 2022 Tuition Rates

map thumbnail: CMC District

In-district Tuition

$90/credit-hour
Associate & Bachelor's

$115/credit-hour
BA Education

$130/credit-hour
BS Nursing

graphic - CMC in-state map

In-state Tuition

$190/credit-hour
Associate & Bachelor's

$215/credit-hour
BA Education

$230/credit-hour
BS Nursing

map thumbnail: CMC District

Service Area Tuition

$180/credit-hour
Associate & Bachelor's

$205/credit-hour
BA Education

$220/credit-hour
BS Nursing

map showing WUE states: Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.

Western States/WUE

$285/credit-hour
Associate & Bachelor's

$310/credit-hour
BA Education

Out-of-state Tuition

$466/credit-hour
Associate & Bachelor's

$491/credit-hour
BA Education

$506/credit-hour
BS Nursing

Colorado Mountain College Special Rates

Students are permitted only one tuition discount while enrolled at the institution.

Discounted rates for students within the CMC Service Area

CMC Service Area Rates

The Service Area Classification provides reduced tuition rates for those living outside the CMC district but within the region served by CMC. This area includes Chaffee, Grand and Jackson counties.

Our service area does not include the southern part of Routt County which is part of the Colorado Northwestern Community College’s service area.

2020-2021 Service Area Tuition Rates Per Credit Hour

Associate & Bachelor's BA Education BS Nursing
$175 $200 $215

To qualify for CMC’s service area status for tuition purposes, you must:

  • Be a Colorado state resident
  • Be domiciled in the three-county (Chaffee, Grand and Jackson) Colorado Mountain College service area for a minimum period of 32 days prior to the first day of the semester
  • If you are under the age of 23, you must prove emancipation from your parents or legal guardian if they reside out of the service or in-district area.
  • If you attend CMC as an out-of-state student and gain in-state status while residing in the service area, you may earn service area status at the time of your in-state classification.

CMC District Map

CMC District: blue overlay. CMC Service Area: purple overlay.

All discounts are approved by the board of trustees on an annual basis and subject to change or be discontinued at any time.

Special rates for students from western states

WUE / Western Undergraduate Exchange Tuition Rate

New students from WUE western states can save big on tuition through the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) at Colorado Mountain College.

See Complete WUE information and guidelines.

All discounts are approved by the board of trustees on an annual basis and subject to change or be discontinued at any time.

Rates for veteran and military families

Veterans and Military Families Discount Rate

To honor your service, the Colorado Mountain College Board of Trustees is pleased to offer qualifying veterans and military families a 25% tuition discount off your tuition classification rate. This discount is for veterans, active-duty military, their spouses and dependents under 23-years-of-age. To learn more about the discount, please visit:

Veterans

Active Duty

For more information contact the Coordinator of Military Services at military@coloradomtn.edu.

All discounts are approved by the board of trustees on an annual basis and subject to change or be discontinued at any time.

Discounted rates for recent ESL or GED graduates

Continuing Opportunity Tuition Rate

Students who have continuously resided in the CMC service area for at least 24 months and have successfully completed the English as a Second Language (ESL) curriculum or a General Education Diploma (GED) at CMC, as attested by CMC staff, will be charged the current in-state tuition rate for the courses in which they enroll as a part of their bachelor’s, associate or certificate degree program.

Qualifying students must be 23 years of age or older and must not be a resident or have domicile in a region outside of the CMC service area.
Contact an Admissions Representative to learn more.

All discounts are approved by the board of trustees on an annual basis and subject to change or be discontinued at any time.

ASSET program

Colorado’s ASSET bill allows U.S. citizens, permanent resident aliens, and students without lawful immigration status to qualify for in-state tuition rates if they meet certain conditions.

Informacion en español sobre ASSET
See more Information about ASSET

All discounts are approved by the board of trustees on an annual basis and subject to change or be discontinued at any time.

Discounted Rates for the Native American Ute Nation

Native American Ute Nation Tuition Rate

Students who provide proof of membership with the Ute Indian Tribe of the Uintah & Ouray Reservation are eligible for the in-district rate.

Contact an Admissions Representative to learn more.

All discounts are approved by the board of trustees on an annual basis and subject to change or be discontinued at any time.

In-state tuition for Team USA Olympic and Paralympic Athletes

In-state Tuition For Team USA Athletes

More than 60 Olympic and Paralympic athletes have attended Colorado Mountain College. To honor them and support future dreams, the college offers in-state tuition for those training on Team USA.

See Team USA Details and Eligibility

District employer sponsored rate

Your employer may help you qualify for in-state rates

The District Employer Sponsored Rate enables Colorado Mountain College to provide educational services for local tax-paying businesses who are paying for their employees’ credit courses without penalizing them for employees who do not meet state residency requirements.

Under this classification, the employer paying the tuition of the student must be an employer in our district and set up as a third-party organization for billing purposes, and then can pay the in-district rate for employees who are in-state or out-of-state residents involved in job-related training activities.

Contact an Admissions Representative to learn more.

All discounts are approved by the board of trustees on an annual basis and subject to change or be discontinued at any time.

Rates for second home owners

Discounted rates for non-residents with homes in CMC districts

Students who are classified as non-residents (out-of-state) but who own a residence in the Colorado Mountain College district are allowed to register for up to 3 credits per semester at a rate equivalent to in-state rate. This can include one three-credit course or a combination of one-credit or two-credit courses adding up to three credits total. Or, students may enroll in one 4 or 5 credit course at this rate. (Students cannot take a series of courses that add up to either 4 or 5 credits with this rate.)

The tuition reduction is limited to 100 and 200 level courses, and cannot be used for online courses exclusively.

This Second Homeowner discount is only for Homeowners not dependents of homeowners.

If an out-of-state resident student takes more than the allowed number of credits within one semester, all credits (including the original credits) will be charged at the regular out-of-state rate. The tuition reduction is limited to 100 and 200 level courses, and cannot be used for online courses exclusively.

Contact an Admissions Representative to learn more.

All discounts are approved by the board of trustees on an annual basis and subject to change or be discontinued at any time.

Discounted Rates for Seniors

Senior Grant Tuition Rate

Colorado Mountain College provides grants for 50 percent of the tuition charge for in-district residents who are 62 years old or older.

Contact an Admissions Representative to learn more.

All discounts are approved by the board of trustees on an annual basis and subject to change or be discontinued at any time.

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Outdoor Recreation Leadership

Academic Pathway | Outdoor Industry

Associate of General Studies in Outdoor Recreation Leadership

Outdoor Recreation Leadership: Earn a Hands-on Outdoor Recreation Degree in the Colorado Mountains

Follow your passion — live and learn at the highest elevation campus in the U.S.

Follow your passion into the mountains, canyons, and rivers of the American West. As you earn your AGS in Outdoor Recreation Leadership, you will learn wilderness skills and build confidence in technical outdoor situations. We emphasize low-impact techniques for responsible environmental stewardship, as well as human skills for effectively leading groups in unique, outdoor settings.

Real-world courses expose you to technical skills, including mountaineering, emergency medicine, rock climbing, snow travel, avalanche safety, and whitewater rafting. CMC students are in high demand for outdoor jobs as raft, ski, & climbing guides, park rangers, therapeutic instructors, wilderness program managers, and outdoor educators.

Specialized Training

Learn outdoor leadership skills with pack on or paddle in-hand. You will practice leading and following others while traveling on high mountain peaks, glaciated valleys, the canyons of the Southwest, wild rivers, and beautiful desert environments. Earn industry standard certifications like Wilderness First Responder, Leave No Trace trainer, swiftwater rescue, and more.

Associate Degree Program

You can earn an associate degree in two years. Our hands-on approach to learning Outdoor Recreation Leadership prepares you to enter the job market immediately following graduation or stay right here and complete a bachelor’s degree in Sustainability Studies or Business Administration.

Mountain learning, mountain living in Leadville, Colorado

Leadville, Colorado is the place if you love the outdoors. Our campus in Leadville specializes in outdoor and environmental programs in a spectacular mountain setting. With over 250 acres, the campus has miles of cross country ski trails that are maintained by students in the Ski Area Operations program.

Our residence halls offer spectacular views of the two highest mountains in Colorado. Classrooms feature state-of-the art technology and computer labs. There's also a cybercafe/bookstore.

ORL Photo Gallery

Request Program Information

Apply Now
Contact Admissions
graphic: Outdoor Industry in Colorado, $62.5 billion per year
Outdoor Recreation Leadership Program

REAL-WORLD LEARNING

  • Risk management
  • Recreation programming
  • Group development
  • Leadership theory
  • Communication & confict resolution
  • Leave No Trace
Locations Expand

The Outdoor Recreation Leadership is offered at:

  • Leadville

If you live closer to a campus that is not listed above, you may be able to take some classes locally. Contact your campus for more information.

All or part of this operation is conducted on Public Lands and Waters under special permits and agreements from the U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

Curriculum Expand
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Learning Outcomes Expand

Program Learning Outcomes are what we expect each student will learn while earning a degree or certificate. Meeting these learning outcomes is how we assess our performance as a college. Our learning outcomes support both important career skills and future success as a student.

Upon completing the Outdoor Recreation Leadership (AGS) program, CMC students will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate mastery of backcountry travel skills, including navigation, safety and risk awareness, and self-care.
  2. Demonstrate the ability to use good quality judgement and critical thinking in field situations leading to competent program and personal risk management.
  3. Demonstrate appropriate leadership styles and competency in facilitating group issues in either backcountry or front country situations.
  4. Plan an expedition of any duration, incorporating all necessary planning and logistical elements.
  5. Convey environmental literacy with respect to Leave No Trace philosophies and practices, natural and cultural history, and environmental ethics.
  6. Utilize effective outdoor teaching methods to maximize the transfer of skills and knowledge to others.
  7. Communicate effectively using oral, written, and electronic means to succinctly convey information.
  8. Engage effectively with people who do not necessarily share similar heritage, religious views, sexual orientation, gender preference or socio-economic status.

Get Started Expand

Academics and outdoor adventures are both integral to the Outdoor Recreation Leadership program at Colorado Mountain College

Colorado Mountain College provides outdoor gear and safety equipment such as ropes, harnesses, hardware, tents and cooking equipment.

Students applying to the Outdoor Recreation Leadership program must demonstrate college-level proficiency skills through ACT scores, college transcripts or the Accuplacer placement test, administered by Colorado Mountain College. We recommend that you take one of these tests as soon as possible because inadequate skills in reading, writing and mathematics may require you to enroll in developmental courses. This may affect your acceptance into the program.

Students accepted into the college's vocational programs must be physically, mentally, and emotionally self-supportive with reasonable accommodations. If there is a concern about meeting the physical and academic standard, students need to contact the Access Coordinator who will determine the student's ability to participate in this program.

Colorado Mountain College is an open enrollment college. Transfer students should have a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0 on a 4.0 scale at previous colleges.

Essential Eligibility Requirements Expand

This program has certain physical and academic standards which you will be required to meet before you are admitted to the program. Students accepted into the college's vocational programs must be physically, mentally, and emotionally self-supportive with reasonable accommodations. If there is a concern about meeting the physical and academic standard, students need to contact the Access Coordinator who will determine the student's ability to participate in this program.

Careers Expand

photo - outdoor recreation leadership groupPrepare for Careers and Outdoor Recreation Jobs with an ORL Degree

Start a career or move on to a higher degree with the Outdoor Recreation Leadership program at Colorado Mountain College

Our hands-on approach to learning Outdoor Recreation Leadership prepares you to enter the job market immediately following graduation, to transfer to a four-year institution, or stay right here and complete a Bachelors degree in Sustainability Studies or Business.

Colorado Mountain College ORL students become:

  • Adventure travel planners
  • Nature and outdoor center guides
  • Wilderness instructors
  • Forestry technicians
  • Outdoor recreation retail business owners or managers
  • Resort recreation or camp leaders

With education beyond Colorado Mountain College, you can work toward other outdoor positions in research, management and academics.

The field of Outdoor Recreation Leadership is booming. From humble beginnings, the American outdoor field has expanded from one high-adventure school in 1963 to over 10,000 today. The outdoors is big and you can be part of it! The demand for leisure and recreation is increasing and qualified people are needed to facilitate trips and activities all over the country, and the world.

Find a job after graduation
The ORL program prepares you to enter a variety of outdoor careers directly after graduation. Graduates have certificates in Wilderness First Responder (medical), Avalanche Forecasting Level I and Level II (evaluation of safe winter terrain), Leave No Trace (minimum impact camping and travel techniques), and a Swift Water Rescue certificate (moving water rescue). All in all, you will be well prepared to enter the exciting world of outdoor leadership.

Transfer to a four-year institution
Graduates of this program have the opportunity to continue their study at a four-year college or university. Articulation agreements have been completed with Colorado State University-Pueblo and Western State Colorado University. These agreements allow Outdoor Recreation Leadership graduates to transfer directly. Articulation agreements are also being developed with other institutions.

Stay at CMC for a Bachelors degree
Stay at CMC to pursue a Bachelors degree in Sustainability Studies or Business Administration. Once you experience the Rocky Mountains, believe me you are going to want to stay around.

Related Degrees

Bachelor

Sustainability Studies
Ecosystems Science & Stewardship
Business Administration

Associate

Outdoor Education

Certificate

Avalanche Science
Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Professional Fly-Fishing Guide
Rope Rescue Technician
Sustainability Leadership
Wilderness Emergency Medical Services

Program News

Autry Lomahongva

Autry Lomahongva
Class of 2022

“I am learning all that I can from the instructors so I can go back to where I come from [Northern Arizona’s Four Corners region] and help the native youth get out and learn of their surroundings. I will try to instill a sustainability method so that I, them and the next generations that will follow can still enjoy the outdoors experience.”

1000 Words: Air Force cadets boat, climb, bike and backpack at CMC Leadville

Autry Lomahongva
Class of 2022

“I am learning all that I can from the instructors so I can go back to where I come from [Northern Arizona’s Four Corners region] and help the native youth get out and learn of their surroundings. I will try to instill a sustainability method so that I, them and the next generations that will follow can still enjoy the outdoors experience.”

Outdoor Studies Program Manager, Spring Valley

June 16, 2022 By Jessica Smith

 About Colorado Mountain College

Imagine working at a college that welcomes everyone — students, faculty, staff, and community members — regardless of their backgrounds, beliefs, or traditions. An institution that is also integrally connected to, appreciated by, and supported by those same communities.

Envision yourself at a dynamic, innovative, forward-leaning college that has a highly entrepreneurial spirit and deep commitment to every learner – from first-generation college students and new-traditional and adult learners to academically motivated students seeking a more traditional liberal arts education – all within a robust and highly personalized learning environment.

Visualize applying your energy and skills for an organization that respects and cares about its employees enough to offer competitive compensation and benefits while encouraging every team member to renew and recharge in places of inspiration, reflection, and world-class outdoor recreation.

Welcome to Colorado Mountain College and its eleven campus locations sprinkled across a spectacular region of Colorado’s central Rocky Mountains.

Our vision

Colorado Mountain College aspires to be the most inclusive and innovative student-centered college in the nation, elevating the economic, social, cultural, and environmental vitality of its beautiful Rocky Mountain communities.

The college

CMC is a comprehensive, public, open-access dual-mission institution offering 136 academic programs ranging from specialized certificates to associate and bachelor’s degrees, a wide range of online, non-credit and lifelong learning courses, as well as extensive concurrent enrollment opportunities in close partnership with neighboring school districts.

Over 15,000 students attend CMC annually, and 40% of degree-seeking students earn a certificate or degree every year. The college’s Latinx enrollment has doubled in six years to 28%, making CMC a federally designated Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). CMC courses are highly personal and many are highly experiential by design, each with a maximum registration of 25 students.

Colorado Mountain College campuses are located in Aspen, Carbondale, Breckenridge, Dillon, Steamboat Springs, Glenwood Springs, Glenwood Springs-Spring Valley, Leadville, Rifle, the Vail Valley, and Salida. Of these locations, three are residential—Spring Valley, Leadville, and Steamboat Springs — and students in Breckenridge have access to college-owned off-campus housing. CMC campuses are close-knit communities, on average serving between 1,000 – 2,000 students.

The majority of the college’s financial support comes from local property taxes, not tuition or state revenues.  Consequently, CMC is uniquely positioned to be entrepreneurial, nimble, mission-focused, and responsive to community and workforce needs. The college’s Central Services administrative office, which provides administrative support to all campus locations, is located in historic downtown Glenwood Springs, the town from which CMC originally launched in 1965.

Colorado Mountain College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and authorized by the Colorado Commission on Higher Education. For general information about CMC, its programs, locations, students, faculty, and offerings, go to: www.coloradomtn.edu.

Our commitment to an environment where everyone belongs

Our college and beloved mountain communities are enriched by a variety of voices and experiences.

At Colorado Mountain College, we continually work to improve learning and working environments that welcome everyone.  We are deeply committed to promoting a free and open exchange of ideas, improving critical thinking, deepening mutual empathy and respect, and ensuring that every learner and team member has equal opportunities for personal and professional success.

The college prioritizes the recruitment, hiring and retaining of a highly engaged workforce that reflects and supports the backgrounds, characteristics and aspirations of the students enrolled at the college.  CMC therefore values applicants who demonstrate prior accomplishments, training, and a commitment to the concepts of inclusive and equitable practices, as well as an understanding of historic and current social issues that impact groups of different socio-economic and cultural backgrounds.

CMC employees enjoy regular opportunities to raise their awareness about pressing societal issues, develop individual critical thinking skills, and expand their understanding of and empathy toward others regardless of race, gender, ethnicity or other factors. Our goal is to deliver highly personalized teaching methods and effective student support services that enable students to achieve their goals, regardless of academic or financial barriers.

Applicants to Colorado Mountain College must demonstrate a commitment and competence to work effectively with students, employees, and community members of all backgrounds.

For more information about CMC, go to: www.coloradomtn.edu.

The position

The Outdoor Studies Program Manager (OSPM), in coordination with the local program faculty, oversees the day-to-day operations of the Outdoor Studies Programs. Utilizing world-class campus amenities such as our low- and high-ropes challenge course, our indoor climbing wall and our trail system, this position facilities experiential leadership development programs for a wide variety of clients, including local schools and non-profits as well as internal groups such as new student orientations and campus leadership.  In addition, this position manages the logistics of the program including, but not limited to: permit acquisition and maintenance, risk management policies and procedures, curriculum development, equipment purchasing, field class safety support, field equipment procurement, preparation and replacement, course issue and de-issues processes, program budgets, and vehicle scheduling.

View/download job description including hiring salary range: Outdoor S­­­­tudies Program Manager

Pre-requisites for Position (Qualifications Standards)

Education and experience sufficient for the rigors of the position. Examples may include a Bachelor’s Degree in outdoor management, recreation, leadership or related field, plus two years of related experience in outdoor programming with a depth of experience in at least three of the following areas: backpacking, rock climbing, mountaineering, white water kayaking and rafting, backcountry skiing and snowboarding, and challenge course management or equivalent education and experience that will provide the necessary knowledge, skill and abilities to perform the functions of the position.  Master’s Degree is preferred.

Special Skills or abilities directly applicable to the position include, but are not limited to: a beginning to intermediate level of technical competence in a variety of outdoor skills; current certification as a Wilderness First Responder or Wilderness EMT plus CPR; computer competence with word processing and spread sheets using PC platform; highly motivated; excellent written and oral communication skills; well organized; knowledge and experience with federal and state land permit administration, outdoor program management, field course logistics, and budget management skills essential. Teaching is not a required duty for this position, however, the OPSM may teach college-level courses provided credentialing requirements and appropriate part-time teaching approvals are received.

Welcoming. Innovative. Focused on Student Success. These principles reflect the soul of CMC. They guide us in building our teams, cultivating leaders, and expanding our approaches and mindset. They guide us to be an institution of higher education that’s the right fit for every faculty member, staff, student, and community member in its trust. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to working effectively with students, employees, and community members of all backgrounds.

Bilingual (English/Spanish) or conversational language abilities strongly preferred.

To Apply: Please submit the required letter of interest, resume, and list of three professional references. CMC is an EOE committed to diversifying its workforce.

External Applicants: Apply Online

Internal Applicants: Please proceed to the HR page of Basecamp or by searching in Learning Hub for instructions on applying for a full time position as an internal applicant.

Review of application material will begin July 5, 2022.

Filed Under: Employment, Full-time Employment, Full-time Staff Employment Tagged With: Glenwood Springs-Spring Valley

Recreation and Events Manager, Spring Valley

June 16, 2022 By Jessica Smith

About Colorado Mountain College

Imagine working at a college that welcomes everyone — students, faculty, staff, and community members — regardless of their backgrounds, beliefs, or traditions. An institution that is also integrally connected to, appreciated by, and supported by those same communities.

Envision yourself at a dynamic, innovative, forward-leaning college that has a highly entrepreneurial spirit and deep commitment to every learner – from first-generation college students and new-traditional and adult learners to academically motivated students seeking a more traditional liberal arts education – all within a robust and highly personalized learning environment.

Visualize applying your energy and skills for an organization that respects and cares about its employees enough to offer competitive compensation and benefits while encouraging every team member to renew and recharge in places of inspiration, reflection, and world-class outdoor recreation.

Welcome to Colorado Mountain College and its eleven campus locations sprinkled across a spectacular region of Colorado’s central Rocky Mountains.

Our vision

Colorado Mountain College aspires to be the most inclusive and innovative student-centered college in the nation, elevating the economic, social, cultural, and environmental vitality of its beautiful Rocky Mountain communities.

The college

CMC is a comprehensive, public, open-access dual-mission institution offering 136 academic programs ranging from specialized certificates to associate and bachelor’s degrees, a wide range of online, non-credit and lifelong learning courses, as well as extensive concurrent enrollment opportunities in close partnership with neighboring school districts.

Over 15,000 students attend CMC annually, and 40% of degree-seeking students earn a certificate or degree every year. The college’s Latinx enrollment has doubled in six years to 28%, making CMC a federally designated Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). CMC courses are highly personal and many are highly experiential by design, each with a maximum registration of 25 students.

Colorado Mountain College campuses are located in Aspen, Carbondale, Breckenridge, Dillon, Steamboat Springs, Glenwood Springs, Glenwood Springs-Spring Valley, Leadville, Rifle, the Vail Valley, and Salida. Of these locations, three are residential—Spring Valley, Leadville, and Steamboat Springs — and students in Breckenridge have access to college-owned off-campus housing. CMC campuses are close-knit communities, on average serving between 1,000 – 2,000 students.

The majority of the college’s financial support comes from local property taxes, not tuition or state revenues.  Consequently, CMC is uniquely positioned to be entrepreneurial, nimble, mission-focused, and responsive to community and workforce needs. The college’s Central Services administrative office, which provides administrative support to all campus locations, is located in historic downtown Glenwood Springs, the town from which CMC originally launched in 1965.

Colorado Mountain College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and authorized by the Colorado Commission on Higher Education. For general information about CMC, its programs, locations, students, faculty, and offerings, go to: www.coloradomtn.edu.

Our commitment to an environment where everyone belongs

Our college and beloved mountain communities are enriched by a variety of voices and experiences.

At Colorado Mountain College, we continually work to improve learning and working environments that welcome everyone.  We are deeply committed to promoting a free and open exchange of ideas, improving critical thinking, deepening mutual empathy and respect, and ensuring that every learner and team member has equal opportunities for personal and professional success.

The college prioritizes the recruitment, hiring and retaining of a highly engaged workforce that reflects and supports the backgrounds, characteristics and aspirations of the students enrolled at the college.  CMC therefore values applicants who demonstrate prior accomplishments, training, and a commitment to the concepts of inclusive and equitable practices, as well as an understanding of historic and current social issues that impact groups of different socio-economic and cultural backgrounds.

CMC employees enjoy regular opportunities to raise their awareness about pressing societal issues, develop individual critical thinking skills, and expand their understanding of and empathy toward others regardless of race, gender, ethnicity or other factors. Our goal is to deliver highly personalized teaching methods and effective student support services that enable students to achieve their goals, regardless of academic or financial barriers.

Applicants to Colorado Mountain College must demonstrate a commitment and competence to work effectively with students, employees, and community members of all backgrounds.

For more information about CMC, go to: www.coloradomtn.edu.

The position

Under the supervision of the Director of Auxiliary and Recreation, the Manager of Recreation and Events manages the operation of the newly-created campus recreation and wellness center at the Spring Valley Campus and associated programs. This position implements recreation and events policies, determines schedule of new and existing recreation programs offerings and facility maintenance, purchasing/inventory of fitness equipment for under the recreation program, and manages the recreation center budget. The position works collaboratively with other departments of the campus, the College, and external constituents to facilitate campus events, conferences, meetings, etc. for all facilities of the Spring Valley campus in addition to the Outdoor Leadership Center and Field House, and support select campus auxiliary services.

Varying work schedule will be required; evening and weekend hours will be necessary at times based on position responsibilities, scheduled event, and the needs of the campus.

View/download job description including hiring salary range: Recreation and Events Manager

Pre-requisites for Position (Qualifications Standards)

Education and experience necessary for the rigors of the position, such as a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and two years related work experience, or associate’s degree and three years related experience; or High School Diploma/GED and five years related experience, or an applicable combination of education and experience necessary for the responsibilities of the position.  Degree or certification in related field such as exercise science, recreation management, sports/leisure studies, physical education may be preferred.

Knowledge of event management and marketing strategies preferred.

Special skills or Abilities: Knowledge of: generally accepted accounting principles marketing and organizational management essential. Ability to organize and prioritize work; meet deadlines; strong verbal, written, negotiating, and interpersonal skills; lift 25 lbs. and push/pull up to 50 lbs.; use office equipment such as computer, college software, calculator, and point of sale (POS) system. Additionally, knowledge of recreation administration, exercise science, leisure studies or comparable degree/experience is desired.

Position is expected to achieve and maintain current certifications in achieve and maintain current certifications in American Red Cross Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) for the Professional Rescuer, Automatic External Defibrillator (AED), and First Aid or American Red Cross Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers or an approved alternative.

Welcoming. Innovative. Focused on Student Success. These principles reflect the soul of CMC. They guide us in building our teams, cultivating leaders, and expanding our approaches and mindset. They guide us to be an institution of higher education that’s the right fit for every faculty member, staff, student, and community member in its trust. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to working effectively with students, employees, and community members of all backgrounds.

Bilingual (English/Spanish) or conversational language abilities preferred.

To Apply: Please submit the required letter of interest, resume, and list of three professional references. CMC is an EOE committed to diversifying its workforce.

External Applicants: Apply Online

Internal Applicants: Please proceed to the HR page of Basecamp or by searching in Learning Hub for instructions on applying for a full-time position as an internal applicant.

Review of application material will begin on July 5, 2022.

Filed Under: Employment, Full-time Employment, Full-time Staff Employment Tagged With: Glenwood Springs-Spring Valley

Outdoor Education Degree or Certificate Training

Academic Pathway | Outdoor Industry

Associate of Arts - Outdoor Education Emphasis

A group of CMC students pose together on a Technical Canyoneering course in the desert.

Study Outdoor Education with CMC's Popular Outdoor Education Program

Become a leader in the land you love! Our epic location in the heart of the Rocky Mountains will challenge you with high peaks, raging rivers, steep canyons and steep descents. Seasoned outdoor professionals will guide you to build the skills you need to be a confident outdoor leader.

CMC’s Outdoor Education degree provides you with the groundwork of a liberal arts education combined with theoretical and hands-on outdoor leadership experiences. From rafting down a desert canyon to trekking up and over one of the state’s many 14,000-ft. mountain peaks, you’ll push yourself and learn to lead others along the way.

SPECIALIZED TRAINING

Learn outdoor leadership skills with a pack on or paddle in hand. You will practice leading and following others while traveling on high mountain peaks, glaciated valleys, the canyons of the Southwest, wild rivers, and beautiful desert environments.

TWO-YEAR OUTDOOR PROGRAM

The Outdoor Education program strives to be a positive steward of the natural environment, with a special focus on sustainable practices. Faculty provide both experience- based and theory-based learning opportunities through the coursework, with an emphasis on student goals, industry- standard practices, and fun.

WHERE CAN I GO FROM HERE?

A degree in Outdoor Education prepares you to pursue further education or head directly into a career.

  • Guiding
  • Public school outdoor programs
  • Counsel at-risk youth in outdoor therapy programs
  • Technical jobs with federal agencies (Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management)
  • Municipal parks and recreation

OUT Photo Gallery

Request Program Info

Apply Now
Contact Admissions
graphic: 500,000 Jobs in Outdoors Recreation in Colorado
Outdoor Education Program

Real Word Learning

  • Outdoor leadership
  • Mountaineering
  • Backcountry travel and appreciation
  • Avalanche awareness
  • First aid, CPR and safety
  • Biology, ecology and geology
  • Ethics and anthropology
Locations Expand

The Outdoor Education is offered at:

  • Breckenridge
  • Dillon
  • Leadville
  • Spring Valley at Glenwood Springs
  • Steamboat Springs

If you live closer to a campus that is not listed above, you may be able to take some classes locally. Contact your campus for more information.

All or part of this operation is conducted on Public Lands and Waters under special permits and agreements from the U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

Curriculum Expand
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Learning Outcomes Expand

Program Learning Outcomes are what we expect each student will learn while earning a degree or certificate. Meeting these learning outcomes is how we assess our performance as a college. Our learning outcomes support both important career skills and future success as a student.

Upon completing the Outdoor Education (AA) program, CMC students will be able to:

Essential Eligibility Requirements Expand

This program has certain physical and academic standards which you will be required to meet before you are admitted to the program. Students accepted into the college's vocational programs must be physically, mentally, and emotionally self-supportive with reasonable accommodations. If there is a concern about meeting the physical and academic standard, students need to contact the Access Coordinator who will determine the student's ability to participate in this program.

Careers and on-going education Expand

Where can I go from here?

Our program prepares you for a job or further study upon graduation:

  • Pursue a degree in education, business, environmental science or recreation law
  • Counsel at-risk youth in outdoor therapy programs
  • Become an advisor for Outward Bound or NOLS
  • Manage a region of the Student Conservation Association
  • Teach via Experiential Education at an environmental primary school
  • Work with city parks and recreation teams
  • Direct outdoor programs in public schools.

Graduates are prepared to enter the outdoor, adventure and recreation fields including:

  • Guiding
  • Retail sales
  • Resort recreation
  • Military or community outdoor recreation
  • Technician positions with federal agencies such as the Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management.

Colorado Mountain College Outdoor Education program graduates often transfer to four-year institutions to pursue a bachelor's or graduate degree in outdoor education, adventure and recreation, teacher and school counselor certification, and anthropology, philosophy and environmental sciences.

Graduates have gone on to attend Colorado universities, and out-of-state institutions such as the University of New Hampshire, Alaska Pacific University, the University of Washington and Western Washington University.

CMC Outdoor Education
Faculty

Related Degrees

Bachelor

Sustainability Studies
Ecosystems Science & Stewardship
Business Administration

Associate

Outdoor Recreation Leadership

Certificate

Avalanche Science
Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Professional Fly-Fishing Guide
Rope Rescue Technician
Sustainability Leadership
Wilderness Emergency Medical Services

Mountains serve as classroom for Air Force cadets learning leadership

August 20, 2021 By cmctestgenesis

Mountains serve as classroom for Air Force cadets learning leadership

This story appeared in the Aug. 4 edition of the Leadville Herald Democrat 

Col. Lukes kayaking

Col. Clarence Lukes Jr., the vice commandant of cadets at the U.S. Air Force Academy, practices a brace stroke during CMC's outdoor leadership program. Photo by Patrick Bilow/Leadville Herald Democrat

By Patrick Bilow, Leadville Herald reporter

A group of 90 United States Air Force Academy cadets from around the world are taking to the trails, rivers and crags of the Upper Arkansas River Valley this summer. Known as the Outdoor Leadership Development Program, the experience is offered through a collaboration with Colorado Mountain College and is designed to teach cadets leadership skills while improving social and emotion intelligence.

“The Naval Academy and West Point, they have the universities and corporations of the East Coast,” said Lt. Col. David Huston, who works within the United States Air Force Academy’s (USAFA) Center For Character and Leadership Development. “But we are the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs with Leadville and Buena Vista practically in our backyard. There’s so much to learn from here.”

Last week, Huston, Vice Commandant of Cadets Col. Clarence Lukes Jr. and about 15 cadets learned watercraft skills near Buena Vista before playing kayak soccer in Cottonwood Creek. Many of the participants, including Lukes Jr., had never been in a kayak before. Meanwhile, cadets who had already been in the water were mountain biking in Leadville, rock climbing in Buena Vista or backpacking around French Mountain in the Sawatch Range.

The cadets, all juniors and seniors at USAFA who came in three groups of 30 throughout the summer, are staying in dorm rooms at the Colorado Mountain College (CMC) Leadville campus, and will earn academic credit as CMC students this summer. Last year only eight cadets enrolled in the program, due in part to the COVID-19 pandemic, and also because 2020 was the program’s first year. After USAFA and CMC discussed expanding the initiative this year, about 90 cadets either volunteered or were mandated to participate this summer.

“I like to imagine cadets, who CMC can now consider alumni, flying above us in aircraft after they’ve graduated,” said Matt Gianneschi, chief operating officer and chief of staff at CMC. “It’s really great for us to be able to make some contribution to USAFA and the next generation of our nation’s military.”

According to Huston, that next generation needs to develop values like those emphasized in CMC’s outdoor recreation leadership program, which teaches CMC students group development, leadership theory and conflict resolution. In 2019, Huston approached CMC with the idea to collaborate. Since then, program directors have developed a summer curriculum that not only teaches cadets recreation skills, like kayaking, but also social and emotional intelligence in team dynamics. Throughout the three-week program, instructors at USAFA and CMC alternated in demonstrating these values.

Air Force cadets kayaking

Air Force cadets at the put-in at the shore of Cottonwood Creek during the outdoor leadership program, in partnership with CMC Leadville. Photo by Patrick Bilow

“Those interpersonal skills are the emphasis of this program,” said Amy Smallwood, associate dean of academics and student affairs at CMC in Leadville. “We’re working with cadets on broadening their character framework to include things like active listening, communication, transparency and trust — all things that are necessary for these types of recreation activities where there is inherent risk involved.”

Another trait that Huston said the program works to improve is growth mindset, a concept created by psychologist Carol Dweck in 2015 which asserts that people can develop any ability through dedication and hard work. Last week, growth mindset development was especially evident as a few straight-faced, white-knuckled cadets, who had never been in a kayak before, learned to wet exit their watercraft. Although some were skeptical before tipping into the water, all cadets were comfortable enough for kayak soccer just hours later.

So far, cadets seem to be learning from the program. According to a survey of last year’s eight cadet participants, nearly all said that they’d improved aspects of their growth mindset and learned more about their strengths and weaknesses as team members and leaders. Huston said that this year’s cadets have echoed similar sentiments.

Chanyuthea Nou, a squadron 40 class of 2023 cadet from Cambodia,  said that the program pushed him out of his comfort zone and taught him more about himself. When Nou and his group went backpacking near Leadville, they got lost and the cadet helped track down the hidden trail. Nou also took to mountain biking and showed off a few leg scars from a hard fall in Buena Vista.

“These are things I do for fun already,” said Andrew Puseman, a squadron 26 class of 2022 cadet from Bailey, “but it’s been really cool to have the opportunity to bike and climb with new people.” Puseman, along with Chia-Hsiang Shen, a squadron 32 class of 2023 cadet, also spent a lot of time along Harrison Avenue, visiting the Manhattan Bar and the Silver Dollar Saloon, and walking to Tacos La Mina for one-dollar tacos on Tuesdays. “Everyone is really kind,” said Shen. “I’ve really enjoyed being here.”

With the program having grown significantly in its second year, representatives of both USAFA and CMC hope to continue the summer courses. “I’m not sure that outdoor learning was necessarily the intention when USAFA was built in Colorado 70 years ago,” said Lukes Jr. “But this is such a valuable experience for these cadets, and I’d like to see it continued.”

Filed Under: CMC In The News, CMC News Tagged With: migrated

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