Love the outdoors? Ecotourism has emerged out of a growing interest in a range of environmentally responsible outdoor activities from bushwalking and bird watching to rafting and even mountain climbing! This course is ideal for those looking to provide facilities and services to people interested in nature-based holidays or experiences. It’s also a great catalyst for those keen to start or manage their own ecotourism business – whether that’s a small-scale B&B or a large eco-resort!
The Certificate of Ecotourism Management is an online program that will give you insights into all aspects of ecotourism, including managing destinations, accommodation, transport, safety and legal considerations.
In this professional development course, you will learn about the nature and scope of ecotourism, the management issues involved, suitable industry destinations, and how to best operate a tour desk or office.
You will also study the types of catering and accommodation facilities, legal considerations like National Parks usage, and safety strategies, including First Aid.
On completion of this course, you’ll have a strong understanding of ecotourism and have raised your awareness of the industry to see opportunities differently – perhaps by running your own ecotourism business!
Course Structure
Ecotour Management
Unit 1 – Nature and scope of ecotourism
- Definition of ecotourism
- Negative ecotourism
- Principles of ecotourism
Unit 2 – Management issues
- Recreation and the environment
- Recreational impacts on the environment
- Ethical and legal concerns
- Code of practice for ecotourism operators
- Incorporating ecotourism principles into activities
- Interpretation
- Visitor guidelines
- Planning for minimal impact
- Quality control
Unit 3 – Industry destinations
- The ecotourism market
- What do ecotourists want?
- Trends in international tourism
- Understanding the needs of the consumer
- Consumer expectations
Unit 4 – The tour desk/office
- Office procedures
- Providing information
- Employment prospects in ecotourism
- Bookings
- Business letters
- Telephone manner
Unit 5 – Accommodation facilities
- Types of accommodation facilities
- Layout of facilities
Unit 6 – Catering facilities
- Introduction to catering
- Accepted practice for service facilities
- Storing and preserving food
Unit 7 – Legal considerations
- National parks
- Land use/planning restrictions
- Code of practice
Unit 8 – Safety
- The safety strategy
- Hazards
- First aid
Unit 9 – Planning an ecotourism activity
- A special project where the student plans out an ecotourism activity including:
- budget
- accommodation
- licenses
- meals
- destination
Study Hours
Estimated duration 50 hours
Course Delivery and Start
Start anytime, self-paced and 100% online
Assessment
Assessment will be comprised of written exercises, including short-answer questions, reflective tasks, short reports and/or projects. There are no examinations or due dates for assessment. As a result, you can complete training in your own time and at your own pace with the assistance of unlimited tutor support.
Course FAQs
Why Choose Australian Online Courses?
- Professional development that is widely recognised and respected;
- Improve your employment opportunities;
- Study online, anywhere via our elearning system;
- High-quality professional development programs written by industry experts;
- All course materials provided online – no textbooks to buy;
- Unlimited tutor support via email;
- We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply);
- Course may be tax deductible; see your tax advisor.
Are there any entry requirements or pre-requisites?
There are no entry requirements or pre-requisites for entry into this program.
How long will it take to complete this course?
The approximate study hours for this course is 50 hours. We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply).
Can I purchase optional printed materials?
While printed materials are not available for purchase, PDF copies are available for download and self-printing for this program.
When can I start this course?
You can start within 60 minutes during business hours when you enrol and pay in full with a credit card!
Credit card: Within 60 mins during business hours.
BPAY: Within 1-2 working days.
Internet Banking: Within 1-2 working days.
Cheque/Money Order: Upon receipt of mailed cheque.
Will I receive a certificate upon completion of this course?
Yes! You will receive a Certificate of Attainment upon successful completion of your assessment.
Do I need to attend classes or undertake any work placements?
No. All courses are delivered online via our e-learning system and there are no work placement requirements in this course.
What support can I expect from Australian Online Courses?
Unlimited tutor support is available throughout your studies via email during business hours Monday to Friday. Our Administrative team are available Monday to Friday via email, live chat and telephone.
I am an international student. Can I enrol into this course?
Yes! We accept enrolments from individuals both within Australia and internationally; location is no barrier to entry into our programs.
Payment Options
Visa, Mastercard, BPAY and Direct Deposit
Career Pathways
- Ecotour Manager
