New University Certificate Program “SNOWSPORTS” Prepares the Next Generation of Alpine Sports Leaders

The International Federation of Snowsport Instructors (IVSI) and the Deutsche Hochschule für Gesundheit & Sport (DHGS) today announced the launch of SNOWSPORTS, a new part-time, international university certificate course designed for professionals who want to lead, not just work in, the snow sports industry. The program awards 60 ECTS credits at master’s level and is fully transferable toward a Master’s degree in Sports Science.

• IVSI International is a leading body in snow sport instruction, dedicated to maintaining high standards of quality and responsibility in the alpine environment.

• The Deutsche Hochschule für Gesundheit & Sport (DHGS) is a premier university institution focusing on the intersection of health, sport, and science.

Organizers say the program responds to an industry at a turning point, as climate change, internationalization, digitalization, and rising quality expectations reshape snow sports. SNOWSPORTS is positioned as a strategic qualification for people who want to help reimagine the sport across the slopes, ski schools, destinations, and tourism organizations.

A New Profile for the Future of Snow Sports

SNOWSPORTS combines excellent alpine sports training with university-level sports science, management and leadership instruction, and real-world practical projects in alpine and tourism systems. The curriculum is scientifically grounded and practically implemented, with training conducted in a real alpine environment rather than only in the classroom, and a clear focus on leadership, management, and decision-making skills.

The program is delivered through a blended-learning model of intensive in-person sessions, compact course blocks, and digital learning, allowing working professionals to continue their careers while studying. Across nine modules, participants cover exercise physiology and sports medicine in alpine settings, alpine skiing, snow and avalanche science, snowboarding and alternative snow sports, leadership and pedagogy, action research in sport and tourism, management and tourism economics, and advanced alpine skiing competency.

Who the Program Is For

SNOWSPORTS is aimed at ski and snow sports instructors seeking advancement beyond teaching roles, competitive athletes planning their next career step, managers at ski schools, cable car operators, and tourism or sports organizations, and career changers with a sports background who want to make a broader impact on the industry.

Graduates of the program gain more than just a certificate; they secure a direct bridge to advanced academia. The 60 ECTS credits are fully transferable, allowing for direct entry into a Master’s program in Sports Science, potentially shortening the subsequent Master’s study to just two semesters.

Career opportunities for graduates span across:

• Management positions in ski schools and winter sports businesses.

• Destination development and alpine tourism management.

• Innovation and product development within the sports industry.

Admission and Tuition

Participation is possible with or without ECTS credits. Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent qualification, practical sports experience, and must complete a personal interview.

Tuition for the university certificate is €11,990. Because the credits are 100% transferable, graduates can shorten a subsequent Master’s degree in Sports Science to just two semesters, with that program starting from €7,410.

Career Outlook

Organizers say the qualification is designed to open doors nationally and internationally, including management positions in ski schools and winter sports businesses, roles in alpine tourism and destination development, opportunities in sports industry innovation and product development, work in health promotion and performance, coaching and project management, and direct entry into a Master’s program in Sports Science.

“This is a strategic qualification for those who want to re-imagine snow sports—on the slopes, in management, in destinations, organizations, and the industry.” said Sissel Astrup of Den Norske Ski og Snøbrett Skole

For more information on the SNOWSPORTS program, please visit www.ivsi.info or www.dhgs-hochschule.de.

Email: office.snowsports@ivsi.info