WCU Economic and Legal Foundations in the Outdoor Industry - Hero

View the outdoor industry through a legal lens.

The Graduate Certificate in Economic and Legal Foundations in the Outdoor Industry is a focused, multidisciplinary program tailored for professionals and emerging leaders in this specialized sector. The certificate’s specialized curriculum will equip you with the skills needed to make savvy business decisions, confidently navigate complex legal landscapes, and drive sustainable practices.

Why pursue a Certificate in Economic and Legal Foundations in the Outdoor Industry?
What should I expect?
Outdoor Industry MBA students flip through the Blister Review Buyer's Guide

Gain a Competitive Edge

Gain a competitive edge in the growing outdoor industry with the Graduate Certificate in Economic and Legal Foundations in the Outdoor Industry. This fully online, 9-credit program provides essential training in managerial economics, business law, and natural resource regulation, equipping professionals to navigate complex financial and legal challenges unique to outdoor businesses.

You’ll gain practical skills to make informed economic decisions, manage contracts and compliance, and understand environmental regulations—all without the time commitment of a full MBA. Designed for immediate real-world application, this certificate enhances your ability to drive sustainable business growth while staying ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.

With affordable tuition, flexible online coursework, and an accelerated timeline, this program is ideal for working professionals looking to advance their careers in under a year. Whether you’re a business owner, industry leader, or aspiring professional, this certificate provides specialized knowledge that sets you apart in the job market. Gain valuable insights into economic trends, legal frameworks, and resource management, positioning yourself as a key player in the future of the outdoor industry.

Flexible, Fast-Paced, and Career-Focused

Expect a flexible, fast-paced, and career-focused learning experience designed for working professionals. This certificate consists of three fully online courses covering managerial economics, business law, and natural resource regulation—all tailored specifically to the outdoor industry. Coursework is asynchronous, allowing you to complete assignments on your own schedule while balancing work and personal commitments.

You’ll engage with real-world case studies, industry-specific legal scenarios, and economic decision-making models that can be immediately applied to your career. The program is designed to be completed in as little as two semesters, giving you the opportunity to quickly build expertise without the long-term commitment of a full degree. Whether you’re looking to advance in your current role or pivot to a new opportunity, this certificate provides practical, industry-relevant knowledge that positions you for success in the outdoor business sector.

Admissions, Cost & Requirements

Admissions
Tuition & Costs
Program Requirements

OIMBA Certificate Application Requirements

Admission Overview: Admission to any OIMBA certificate program will be based on a comprehensive assessment of academic achievements and relevant work experience. We welcome applicants who demonstrate a keen interest and potential in the outdoor industry, regardless of their specific area of focus. The application process is conducted online and requires the following materials:

Academic Transcripts

  • Submit official or unofficial transcripts from a regionally accredited university. Unofficial transcripts may be uploaded to expedite application review; however, official undergraduate transcripts are required for full admission.
  • A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is strongly recommended. Significant work experience may compensate for a lower GPA.
  • Prospective students with a BA or BS in an unrelated area may be provisionally admitted and required to complete MBA 690: MBA Essentials with a B- or higher.

Cover Letter

  • Should describe relevant interests, goals, and motivation for pursuing the OIMBA program.
  • Should demonstrate an interest and involvement in outdoor activities or the outdoor industry, though direct experience in the outdoor industry is not mandatory.

Professional Resume

  • Should highlight relevant work experience and showcase potential for positions related to the certificate being pursued.
  • More than three years of outdoor industry work experience is preferred; candidates with less experience will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Two Letters of Recommendation

  • Should come from professionals or academics who can attest to the applicant’s potential for success in the OIMBA program. A mix of professional and academic recommendations is beneficial, though not mandatory.

Provisional Admission Policy

Applicants with incomplete credentials or who lack in certain areas may be provisionally admitted to an OIMBA certificate program, subject to the following conditions:

  • Must demonstrate the ability to manage the graduate course load effectively.
  • Provisional students may be required to earn a B- or higher in MBA 690: MBA Essentials during the fall semester pre-term.
  • Progress of provisionally admitted students will be regularly reviewed by the Program Director, with a focus on their ability to meet prescribed criteria and excel in the program.

*Candidates who do not meet the minimum GPA but have significant work experience will be considered.

**Candidates with less than three years of professional experience will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

OIMBA Certificate Tuition & Fees

Term Credits Tuition per Credit Fees per Credit Hour* Flat Fees** Total Tuition & Fees
Year 1: Fall 6 $1,110 $73.40 $50.00 $7,150.40
Year 1: Spring 3 $1,110 $73.40 $3,550.20
Program Total 9 $10,700.60

*Mandatory graduate student fees per credit hour
$63.00 Graduate Studies Administrative Operations Fee
$6.50 Library Fee
$3.90 IT Services Fee

**Mandatory graduate student flat fees
New Student Matriculation Fee: $50.00

Certificate

A certificate is a shorter program focusing on a specific field of expertise rather than an entire course of study. It does not result in a degree, but it can be completed alongside your major or as a stand-alone credential. Certificates are a great way to enhance your knowledge, strengthen your resume, and gain practical experience in a particular field.

How to Apply

We are so excited about your interest in applying to the Economic and Legal Foundations in the Outdoor Industry Certificate! Please take a moment to review the application requirements and deadlines before accessing the application.

Fellowships, Scholarships & Financial Aid

1

Top Skills

Contract Negotiation
Economic Analysis
Environmental Compliance
Financial Management
Legal Research
Strategic Planning

2

Career Pathways

Environmental Consultant
Outdoor Recreation Manager
Policy Analyst
Risk Management Specialist
Sustainability Coordinator
Travel and Tourism Planner

Faculty & Staff

Outdoor Industry Master of Business Administration

Contact Information

Contact Location

1 Western Way
Borick Business Building 252
Gunnison, CO 81231

Mountain Graphic