Department of Parks, Recreation & Hospitality Administration
Bachelor of Science in Recreation & Park Administration
The Bachelor of Science in Recreation and Park Administration offers four emphases of professional preparation:
This program is designed to prepare students for management careers in private and public recreation agencies or park systems. A broad background in the behavioral and natural sciences is required with major emphasis on resource management and the delivery of leisure services to diverse populations. Specialized course work in biological sciences and business management aid in natural resource decision making. This provides a base for professional courses in planning, design, and operation of park and recreation facilities. A career in recreation sport management, park administration, therapeutic recreation, or interpretation requires a basic understanding of human behavior and the challenges of contemporary society. Due to the multidisciplinary nature of the career field, a student is required to choose courses from several related fields, based on professional interest. A comprehensive general education is complemented with a core of professional courses.
The Recreation and Park Administration major provides specialized education that prepares students for supervisory and administrative positions in federal, state, and local recreation and park agencies as well as commercial recreation and tourism organizations. This program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Related Professions (COAPRT), sponsored by the National Recreation and Park Association.
Vision Statement
The program will produce leaders in Recreation and Park Administration.
Core Values
The Recreation and Park Administration Program is committed to:
- Lifelong learning
- Service to community
- Personal and professional development
- Diversity of experience
- Environmental stewardship
- Interpersonal communication
- Healthy lifestyles
Mission Statement
The mission of the Recreation and Park Administration Program is to educate Recreation and Park professionals for self, community and society.