Costs  Printable version.

(Based on 2006-07 figures)

Approximate expenses for the Outdoor Leadership Program are broken down below.

Tuition and fees for fall & spring semesters* $5,886
Basic personal expenses $1,240 - $2,965
Additional trip expenses $1,000 - $1,495
Other educational expenses $917
Basic personal expenses $1,240 - $2,965
   
Total for two semesters of OLP $8,793 - $11,613
Compare to one semester of National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) $7,200 - $8,900

* In-state tuition only; out-of-state tuition for one semester (assumes in-state residency in spring), $5,058; NEBHE residents add $702 per semester. Costs include tuition for 36 credits per semester, college service fees for 36 credits per semester, and OLP-specific fees for the year. Tuition and fees are based on the current state budget. This can change year to year; call for the current cost, or contact the Business Office for up-to-date figures.

Basic personal expenses

You are wise to explore advertised sales at discount house such as Sierra Trading Post and Campmor and the 20% pro deals offered to OLP students at some local outfitters. Other strategies to reduce expenses include sewing some of your gear and borrowing or renting items such as winter sleeping bags.
Item Estimated cost
Backpack (6000+ cu. inches) $175-475
Bivy sack $75-150
Fleece pants $60-80
Fleece pullover $60-80
Fleece vest $35-60
Headlamp $20-60
Hiking boots $150-250
Raingear (tops & bottoms) $70-150
Synthetic long underwear (tops & bottoms) $40-70
Expedition-weight long underwear (tops & bottoms) $70-90
Sleeping bag (rated below 0°) $250-550
Sleeping pad $15-55
Sunglasses $30-65
Windbreaker $40-80
Winter parka $150-400
Winter gloves or shell mitts $30-50
Miscellaneous gear $20-400
   
Total $1,240 - $2,965

Additional trip expenses

Item Estimated cost
Crampons (mountaineering option) Rentals Available $140-175
Gaiters (backcountry ski option) $30-60
Plastic boots (mountaineering option) Rentals Available $250-350
Plastic sled (both trips) $20-30
Super gaiters (mountaineering option) $90-100
Sorels (backountry ski option) $50-90
Drysuit (rivercrossing & whitewater course) $200-350
Miscellaneous gear $200-300
   
Total $1,000 - $1,495

Other educational expenses

Item Estimated cost
Books $237
Certification fees $235
Leader's First Aid Kit $30-45
AMGA Certification Course $400
   
Total $917