Skip to content

Programs : Brochure

This page is the brochure for your selected program. You can view the provided information for this program on this page and click on the available buttons for additional options.

GEL-Wilderness First Responder in Sylva, NC (Outgoing Program)

Print  Save  Share

  • Locations: Sylva, United States
  • Program Terms: Spring
Fact Sheet:
Fact Sheet:
Program Type: Global Experiential Learning (GEL) Areas of study: Athletic Training, Physical Therapy, Physician Assistant Studies
Academic area: Health Professions Satisfies foreign language requirement: No
Credit bearing: Yes Minimum GPA: 2.8
Click here for a definition of this term Class standing: Graduate student Language of instruction: English
Housing options: Apartment (shared)
Program Description:


NC pic

Program Description: This GEL is a new 2-credit course in the Master of Science of Athletic Training program (AT720). This course prepares health professionals to become certified as wilderness first responders. You will become proficient in backcountry injury prevention, emergency care, and search and rescue. As a culmination of the course, you will participate in a one-week intensive wilderness learning experience.The primary coordinator will provide online instruction leading up to the one-week intensive WFR certification course which will be instructed at the NOLS/Landmark Learning Center in Cullowhee, NC the week of April 29th. The online instructional units will be on:

1. Traumatic injuries and shock

2. Environmental Injuries (cold injuries, heat illness, altitude illness, lightening, stings/bites

3. Medical Emergencies-anaphylaxis, respiratory and cardiac issues, abdominal illness, diabetes, mental health

4. Expedition medicine- disinfecting water, leadership/teamwork/communication, search and rescue, clinical decision making and medico-legal aspects of wilderness medicine

The 5-day NOLS intensive course is 48 hours with the certification exam being given on the last day

Program Cost: $1,300. This includes accommodation, course fee for the WFR certification and SU course credit. 

Travel and Accommodation: You will be driving your own vehicle from Winchester to Cullowhee, NC and the course will be held on the NOLS-Landmark campus. You will be staying in the cabins that accommodate 4 students each but you may also choose to camp on the facility grounds. 

You must show proof of COVID-19 vaccination 

Dates / Deadlines:

There are currently no active application cycles for this program.