Alumni stories: Andy Macbeth, MSc Outdoor Education

Seeking a career change after years in the advertising industry, Andy graduated from the MSc Outdoor Education (now Outdoor and Environmental Education) in 2020.

Too good an opportunity to miss

[I was seeking a] career change. I intend to open my own company based on Outdoor Education. Outdoor Education has been an area of interest for many years and having the opportunity to pivot away from a corporate career into creating a business built around a childhood passion of mine was too good to miss.

[I loved] the mix of academic and practical modules and the vibrant learning community. Both the student cohort and academic staff work really closely together and are all very supportive and engaged in making sure we get the most out of the experience.

Andy Macbeth

'A plethora of practical skills'

Academic thinking and writing are key skills that I have developed, which allow me to access and use the whole world of research and writing that exists out there to marshal my own thoughts and create my own voice on issues of outdoor education and environmental sustainability. 

I have also learned a plethora of practical skills which will be of use to me from navigation to using crampons and an ice-axe to tying a bowline.       

It is the most rigorous, comprehensive and enjoyable learning experience I have ever taken part in both academically and professionally and I would highly recommend it to anybody.

'Shaped my thinking around how I will set up my future business'

[The programme] has shaped my thinking around how I will set up my future business, the courses it will offer and the goals it will pursue. Using the outdoors as a teaching and learning environment while promoting sustainable thinking and practice has never been more important and this course has given me the skills and confidence to feel that my practice in this area will help make a positive difference.

Want to learn more about studying Outdoor and Environmental Education at Moray House?

Our highly regarded Master's programme allows you to study outdoors from Edinburgh to the Scottish Highlands, exploring historical and contemporary approaches to outdoor, environmental, adventure and sustainability education.

Tags

Alumni
Outdoor and Environmental Education