Educational Philosophy Alex Hansen/Wikimedia
The John Muir College emphasizes self-sufficiency and individual choice through loosely structured general-education courses presented in sequences. Check out our complete list of the top 25 colleges for Outside readers.
Ocean Focus Johntex/Wikimedia
When the campus opened, the Scripps Institution of Oceanography was one of two colleges. The focus on ocean research remains with the school having a 5,000-square-foot aquarium and museum, multiple ocean research vessels, and a sea port.
Outdoor Orientation Courtesy UC San Diego
Students can choose from a variety of orientation tribes, including surfing safaris and backpacking through the Sierra Nevada mountain range.
Outdoor Adventures Courtesy UC San Diego
Outback Adventures, University of California, San Diego's outdoor program, runs a wilderness orientation program, trips and classes, a challenge course, and surf and rental shop.
Climbing Courtesy UC San Diego
Not only does the school boast a bouldering and climbing facility, but the Outdoor Adventure club regularly leads climbing trips outdoors.
Mission Bay Aquatic Center Courtesy UC San Diego
The Mission Bay Aquatic Center is the world's largest instruction waterfront facility with opportunities in sports from wakeboarding and sailing to windsurfing and kayaking.
