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A Master Educator course is typically five days in length and designed for people who are actively teaching others backcountry skills or providing recreation information to the public. 2010 Master Course Schedule
As of January 2010, there are over 3500 Leave No Trace Masters world wide representing nine countries and 50 U.S. states. This valuable training is recognized throughout the world by the outdoor industry and land management agencies. The profile of our graduates is highly varied from USFS and NPS backcountry rangers to scout leaders, from outdoor retail executives to school teachers, from college outing club members to outfitters and guides.
Successful graduates of the Master Educator course have the ability to train others in Leave No Trace skills and ethics, and can offer Leave No Trace Trainer courses (two-day) and Awareness Workshops (one-day or shorter).
The Master Educator Course provides participants with a comprehensive overview of Leave No Trace skills and ethics through practical application in a field-based setting. The first day is spent in a classroom, introducing the course and schedule, providing in-depth information on the overall Leave No Trace program and the Center for Outdoor Ethics, reviewing gear, and packing. The remaining days are spent in the field on a short backcountry trip learning and practicing the principles of Leave No Trace.
Each course is staffed with a minimum of two highly experienced outdoor professionals who are Master Educator Instructors. You will learn Leave No Trace techniques through skits, discussions, and hands-on activities. To practice Leave No Trace teaching strategies in a supportive, educational environment, each participant will teach a short session geared toward minimum impact Leave No Trace concerns.
Every participant on a Master Educator course will receive a one-year membership to Leave No Trace. This membership gives new Master Educators better access to teaching resources, as well as closer contact with the Center for education, training and outreach questions.
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Master Educator Courses are available through one of the Center's official Course Providers. Please visit this page to view this year's schedule.
Tuition for the five-day Master Educator course ranges from $500–$830, depending on the course provider and location. Tuition includes all meals and transportation during the course. Rations, instruction, group equipment and curriculum materials are included in the cost. Participants are responsible for travel to and from their course location, and at some locations, for lodging while not in the field.
Upon enrollment, participants receive a packet of course materials including information regarding travel, equipment, medical screening and a more detailed course description. At completion of the course, graduates receive evaluations, a diploma, extensive educational support, and supplies to conduct their own Leave No Trace education.
Participants provide their own personal equipment suitable for a short backcountry trip. Specific equipment needs vary for different course types and locations. Providers supply all group equipment (tents, stoves, etc.) and some have appropriate equipment available to borrow or purchase for personal use. A detailed equipment list is mailed to participants before their course.
Participants on NOLS Master Educator courses can earn 2 hours of college credit from the University of Utah Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism. This optional credit is an additional $65.00 per semester hour. Details are available from the National Outdoor Leadership School.
Partial scholarships are available through Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics. To be eligible, applicants must be enrolled in an approved Leave No Trace Master Educator course prior to submitting the scholarship application. Unfortunately we are unable to award scholarships to individuals outside of the U.S. at this time. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns.
The deadlines for 2010 scholarship applications are: April 1 and August 1.
Please submit your application before the deadline closest to your course dates. In some cases, scholarships may be retroactive if your course runs prior to one of the deadlines. To complete an application, email grants@lnt.org or visit:
Online Scholarship Application
