DEGREE PROGRAM
Recreation
ASSOCIATE DEGREE
Geographic Information Systems/Global Positioning Systems
Geographic Information Systems/Meteorology
CONCENTRATIONS
Ski Resort Management
Natural Resource GIS
Mapping & Planning
Adventure-Based Program Management
MINORS
Applied Group Leadership
Foundations of Social Research
Rural Community Organizations and Administration
Lyndon State College has trained professionals in the winter resort industry for over 30 years now, making our Ski Resort Management program one of the best-conceived majors of its kind anywhere. Learning by doing is a big part of this success. Students engage in more than 360 hours of sophomore field experiences at resorts throughout Vermont and New Hampshire: fixing ski lifts, seeing the ins and outs of advertising and sales, or riding shotgun in a snow groomer. Another of 450 hours is devoted to a senior internship at a resort matching the student’s career interests. Critical to these efforts is the department’s close partnership with key players throughout the ski industry.
Introductory courses orient students to resort operations and functions. Ski resort majors focus on industry trends and issues related to mountain operations or services.
Upper level classes travel to western resorts to meet with alumni and other professionals. Students may choose to graduate with an additional associate of science degree in applied GIS/GPS or Business Administration.
PROGRAM GOALS
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Understand the leisure needs and behaviors of diverse populations
Environmental awareness and appreciation
Sound resource management skills
Ability to think logically and critically
Knowledge through applied experiences and problem solving
Individual, group, and organizational leadership skills
Ability to design, conduct, and analyze research
Commitment to community service
Appreciation for the importance of a sound work ethic
PROFESSIONS
Graduates find careers in marketing
and sales, administration, and a variety
of mountain operations.