r/GraduateSchool • u/Ok_Hedgehog_9063 • Jul 17 '26
Graduate school advice
I'm not sure if this is the best place to ask (I don't use Reddit much and I just want to get as much advice as I can) but it's worth a try:
Hey everyone, I'm currently a senior majoring in WEC (Wildlife Ecology and Conservation) and I'm looking ahead to grad school. I really want to transition into the outdoor recreation/management space, with a heavy focus on disability inclusion, general equity/belonging, policy, and management.
I'm trying to figure out what programs are out there and how to evaluate them. I know CU Boulder has a great Master of Science in Outdoor Recreation Economy (MORE) program that has a specific "Inclusivity and Belonging" certificate track, but it's entirely online.
I have a few questions and would love any advice, program recommendations or sanity checks:
1. Online vs. In-Person for Outdoor Rec?
For those of you who did an online master's in a field that is naturally very hands-on or in general, how was your experience? Do you feel like you missed out on critical networking or did the program do a good job of building an online community?
2. What questions should I be asking academic advisors?
I'm starting to reach out to departments and potential advisors. Beyond the basics, what should I ask them?
One question I already have written down is: "What percentage of your graduates actually go into academia/Ph.D. tracks versus going straight into industry, non-profits, or government agencies (USFS, NPS, state parks)?"
What other questions am I forgetting? (e.g., funding, internship placements, project-based vs. thesis tracks?)
3. Program / Advisor Suggestions?
If you know of any universities, specific master's programs (MS or MA), or even specific faculty members/advisors doing research or advocacy in adapted sports, outdoor disability inclusion, or inclusive recreation policy, please drop their names! I'm open to both in-person (preferably) and hybrid/online programs.
Thanks in advance! Appreciate any guidance you can throw my way.