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Powered by a love of nature
(June 8, 2023) – The world is increasingly acknowledging East Tennessee State University
as an outdoor lover’s dream. Earlier this year, readers of Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine
named the university the 2023 Top Adventure College.
From Clemson University to Virginia Tech, ETSU bested a range of other schools throughout
the South.
Professors want current and potential students to know that jobs exist for those who
enjoy spending time outdoors.
“ETSU has incredible programs that can help you find a career based on your love of
nature and adventure,” said Dr. Janna Scarborough, dean of the Clemmer College of
Education and Human Development where two such programs are housed.
One opportunity is the graduate certificate in nature-based therapy, a five-course
program where students learn theory as well as programming.
“Grounded in ecocentrism, the graduate certificate in nature-based therapy is ideal
for anyone interested in exploring the physical and psychological benefits of nature
and may be especially applicable to those working in the social, behavioral and health
sciences. The certificate offers immersive, comprehensive preparation for the development
and implementation of unique nature-based services and programming,” said Dr. Bethany
Novotny, an associate professor in the Department of Counseling and Human Services. “Students have the opportunity to deeply explore the human-nature relationship,
examine the tenets of individual and community healing, and develop practical skills
for programming logistics, implementation, administration and risk management.”
ETSU also offers students the chance to study park and recreation management, a concentration that prepares students to plan, organize and lead a range of agencies
and programs.
The program has proven popular with students, and alumni find jobs locally and throughout
the United States.
Evan Alvarado, a David Crockett High School graduate, came to ETSU planning a career in nursing.
But he took a class about wildland firefighting and quickly changed his mind, and
he hopes to one day land a job with the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land
Management or a state park service.
“My park and recreation degree will be an excellent base for that, and I am so grateful
to all the ETSU faculty and staff who have helped me along the way,” Alvarado said.
Students getting hands-on learning opportunities while pursuing their passion is at the core of ETSU’s approach to education.
“These programs, as well as many others, allow students to get the training and experience
they need to land a job doing something they love,” said Scarborough. “And that includes
a career in nature.”
