Frequently Asked Questions

Sections:

Can I go on a field trip without signing up for the course or courses?
No. All classes/trips must be taken for credit. There are no exceptions. However, many of the people taking these courses are NOT traditional students. Many of the people in these classes may not "want" the course credit, but they choose these programs because they want to learn about the focus of the field trip. Grading options can be arranged with the faculty to reflect these choices.

How much work is involved with the courses?
It really depends on the course. For outdoor weekend adventures such as rock climbing, canoeing and backpacking, students must show an effort to learn the associated skills. Many times these courses are graded on a satisfactory/fail basis. Other classes have requirements that must be completed for a course grade. Check with our office or the faculty leader for more information on a specific course.

Can I take them on a satisfactory/fail basis?
Most times, yes, but it's up to the instructor. The satisfactory/fail option usually allows a student to complete less work than would be required for an "A" or "B" grade.

Can a payment plan be worked out so I don't have to pay all of the trip fee at once?
Yes. In most cases, students may register and begin paying for classes with fees of $500 or more. The office has a separate payment schedule set up for each course.

What is the refund policy?
There are no refunds on fees once a student has registered. If there is a waiting list and we are able to find a student to take your place, we will refund your money unless a penalty is incurred from the airline or other vendor. If there is a medical emergency, we will make every effort to refund your money.

What is the experience level required?
Unless it's noted, all courses are for beginners. Some courses combine options for students with different skill levels where experienced people have new options and beginners are introduced to the course skills.

Will all of the students be 18 or 19 years old?
Although it's hard to predict the ages of students who will register in a class, the average age of students participating in our classes has been around 35 years old. It is not uncommon for classes to have students 18 years old, 80 years old, and everywhere in between.

What equipment do I have to bring?
Different courses have different equipment needs. For the outdoor weekend adventures, group camping equipment is provided: tents, pots and pans, camp stoves, canoes, ropes, etc. Students must provide their own personal gear and food for most camping trips. Contact the office or the faculty leader for specific equipment needs.

Can I sign up for a course before my regular registration appointment?
Particularly in the case of more expensive trips, students may register for and begin making payments toward the fee before their registration appointment date.

What is the experience level of instructors?
All lead instructors must be experienced teachers who have experience both in the classroom and in leading field trips. We are committed to using only certified Lead Instructors whenever a commonly accepted certification exists.

Do these classes count for graduation credit?
Yes. All classes offered through this department count toward graduation credit, either as electives or required courses.

If I really enjoy a certain class, can I take it again?
You may take as many courses designated 1800 as you'd like. As long as the class title is different, you will get additional credit for the class. You may even take the same class over, for example, Rock Climbing, Physical Education 1841; however, your grade will be recorded as "R" for repeat, and you will receive no additional credit for the course.