The Parks and Recreation Management (PRM) Program is accredited through the Wilderness Education Association (WEA). You can gain national certification through either an 8- or 16-day expedition-style course held in a wilderness area locally or in the Tetons. The focus of the course is on leadership, judgment and decision-making, and the modes of travel are backpacking, rock climbing, canoeing or—out west—spring mountaineering. Many students have been through these programs over the last few years, including professionals from the community and other places.  

The PRM Program also is accredited through the National Ski Patrol (NSP). Completing the NSP’s Outdoor Emergency Care Certificate through PRM 256 will qualify you to train with the Ski Patrol at Cataloochee or Sapphire Valley Ski Resorts. This qualification also is regarded as being the equivalent of a Wilderness First Responder (WFR)—the first aid qualification currently regarded as the standard in the outdoor profession for outdoor leaders. The certification can be maintained by attending the annual updates provided by the National Ski Patrol throughout the country. Courses also are offered in professional rescuer CPR each year for students wishing to become involved with the ski patrol.