Ecotourism involves low-impact travel to fragile, pristine or relatively undisturbed natural areas. But it also reflects the concepts of conservation and the management of resources to ensure environments remain protected and sustainable. And the industry is booming! This course is ideal for those keen to conduct tours, overnight walks or treks with a tour guide service, or entrepreneurs who are inspired to start their own tour guide business.
The Ecotourism Guide Program is an online professional development program that will give you insights into the ecotourism industry, including guiding environmental awareness via tour planning, displays and interpretive aids.
In this ecotourism course, you will study ecology and conservation, plant and animal identification, geology and geomorphology, and you’ll discover how to interpret land and aquatic environments.
You will also learn about the ecotourist profile, how to plan an ecotour, set up ecotour displays, and advertise and lead ecotour services.
On completion of this course, you will be able to successfully organise and lead ecotours so that your clients, including overseas visitors, gain insights and inspiration about the natural world around them.
Course Structure
Unit - Ecotourism Tour Guide Course
Unit 1 – Ecotourism Basics
- Definition of ecotourism
- Negative ecotourism
- Ecotourist profile
- Administrative concerns
- Safety
Unit 2 – Interpretive Services in Ecotourism
- Interpretation as a key element of ecotourism
- Interpretation techniques
- Sign design
Unit 3 – Ecology and Conservation
- Definition of ecology
- Ecosystem function
- The web of life
- Habitat and niche
- Humans in the environment
Unit 4 – Plant and Animal Classification and Identification
- Classification of organisms
- Basic taxonomy
- Using keys for identification
- Other methods of identification
Unit 5 – Geology/Geomorphology
- Types of rocks
- Types of minerals
- Soils
- Soil formation
- Soil classification
Unit 6 – Interpreting Aquatic Environments
- Marine environments
- Freshwater environments
- Fish
- Shells
- Crustaceans
Unit 7 – Interpreting Land Environments
- Introduction to interpreting land environments
- Relevance of interpreting land environments
Unit 8 – Planning an Ecotour
- Destination
- Transportation
- Accommodation
Unit 9 – Ecotour Displays
- Design concepts
- Zoo design techniques
Unit 10 – Leading an Ecotour
- Advertising
- Group preparation
- Planning the tour
- Group surveys for feedback
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.
Testimonials
Really enjoyed my studies
I.Flukes, VIC | Ecotour Guide Program
Graduation
A Certificate of Attainment and Statement of Results will be issued upon successful completion of this course.
How to Enrol
Enrol Online: Click Enrol Now (Credit Card) or Enrol Now (Internet Banking/BPAY)
Enrol via Live Chat (Business Hours)
Enrol via Telephone 1300 76 2221 (Business Hours)
Enrol via Purchase Order/Tax Invoice
Enrolling Multiple Staff?
To enrol multiple staff, please complete the Employer Enrolment Form. We’ll be in touch within 60 minutes during business hours!
Payment Options
Visa, Mastercard, BPAY and Direct Deposit.
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?
To study online with Australian Online Courses you will need a computer (desktop PC/laptop) running a current/updated operating system with reliable high-speed internet access. You will need to use the Google Chrome browser to access your course.
Are there any computer requirements?
To study online with Australian Online Courses you will need a computer (desktop PC/laptop) running a current/updated operating system with reliable high-speed internet access. You will need to use the Google Chrome browser to access your course.
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.
How is this course delivered?
This course is delivered online via our easy-to-navigate Learning Management System (LMS), where you will discover interactive online learning/written content, resources and assessment.
Do I need to attend classes or undertake any work placements?
No. All courses are delivered online via our LMS 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 only 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.
Career Pathways
Future growth
Strong
Unemployment
Low
- Ecotour Guide
- Ecotour Operator
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