Professional Snowsports Certificates: Education, Leadership, Management
Now Accepting Applications--Online and Asynchronous!
Please visit the Snowsports Enrollment webpage for information on how to apply.
Contact Pete Allison (pra7@psu.edu) with any questions.
Build Your Career As a Snowsports Professional
Penn Stateʼs Certificate Program for snowsports professionals prepares individuals for a career in snowsports in collaboration with the Professional Ski Instructors of America and American Association of Snowboard Instructors (PSIA-AASI). Whether you are brand new to the industry, looking to stand out, or established and experienced seeking to enhance your development, Penn State World Campus offers certificates incorporating all levels of PSIA-AASI instruction.
Why an online Professional Snowsports Certificate from Penn State?
Penn State has a long and short history in Snowsports! Tussey Mountain, which can be seen from Campus, was started by Max Dercum in the 1930s when he was a professor. He later went on to buy land and start Arapahoe Basin and Keystone resorts in Colorado. In addition, he was one of the founders of PSIA-AASI in 1960.
The shorter history is that since 2016 the Department of Recreation, Park, and Tourism Management have been working closely with PSIA-AASI to evolve the National Standards, Performance Guides, Assessment Forms, and to transform practices to be consistent across the country so that credit bearing courses are popular. That partnership continues to go from strength to strength. In addition, PSU has faculty and PhD students who are researching snowsports and leading international bodies (e.g. IAESS, part of Interski).
Your credits may apply toward a Snowsports Certificate, a bachelor's degree at Penn State, or another accredited institution. In addition, your PSIA-AASI certification is recognized across the country.
Earn your certificate at a snowsports area near you – The online certificate program allows you to earn 9 credits per certificate anywhere in the United States, giving you the opportunity to integrate your online learning experience with your professional development as a snowsports instructor at a snowsports area near you.
Who should apply?
Snowsports enthusiasts and professionals who are seeking an education to support their professional development and career in the snowsports industry are encouraged to apply.*
*Applicants must have either graduated high school or completed a GED. "Dual enrollment" at High School is not permitted for this program.
Associated Costs
This certificates program involves collaboration with the Professional Ski Instructors of America and American Association of Snowboard Instructors (PSIA-AASI). There are additional costs as a part of participating in this program, which students will pay directly. The costs cover the membership and the assessment. You will also need to either volunteer or be employed at a snowsports school.
As a part of this course, you will need to join or show membership of PSIA-AASI. Reach out to your PSIA regional office if you have any questions. To successfully complete this course, you will need to schedule, pay for, and complete an on-site PSIA-AASI Certification Assessment. In addition, you will need your own protective clothing and equipment for skiing or snowboarding in winter conditions.
Financial Support
Scholarships and financial assistance are available through Penn State World Campus and through the RPTM department.
A number of scholarships and awards are available to cover the costs associated with PSIA-AASI. Please visit PSIA-AASI's website for national scholarships or visit your PSIA-AASI region's website for regional scholarships.
How to apply?
Visit the Professional Snowsports Certificates Enrollment webpage for instructions on applying for Levels I, II, or III.