Leisure and Recreational Activities, General

Also known as: Recreation Management, Parks and Recreation Studies, Leisure Studies, Sport and Recreation Administration

In this Bachelor's program, you will explore the theory and practice of organizing, managing, and delivering diverse leisure and recreational activities for individuals and communities. You'll learn about program planning, facility management, event coordination, and the psychological and social benefits of recreation. The curriculum focuses on developing leadership skills, understanding diverse populations, and creating engaging and inclusive recreational experiences across various settings, from parks to community centers.

Social SciencesRecreation ManagementLeadershipCommunity DevelopmentHospitalityManagement

A Week as a Student

Your week kicks off with an 'Introduction to Recreation and Leisure' lecture, dissecting the historical and societal impact of play. Later, in your 'Recreation Program Planning' lab, you're tasked with brainstorming activity ideas for a senior living community, using a collaborative digital whiteboard. You briefly chat with your TA about a tricky concept from the assigned reading on leisure theory, getting some clarity. That evening, you hit the campus gym, appreciating the well-maintained facilities – a subtle nod to your future studies.

High School Preparation

Required Subjects

English (4 years)Mathematics (3-4 years)Science (3 years)Social Studies (3 years)

Recommended GPA

3.0-3.5

Advanced Courses (AP/IB/Honors)

AP Psychology
AP Human Geography
Advanced Physical Education
Honors Sociology
High School Leadership Course

Recommended Activities

Volunteer at a local community center or park
Participate in student government or leadership roles
Join an outdoor adventure club or sports team
Organize school events or fundraisers
Work as a camp counselor or recreation assistant
Participate in a service-learning project

Application Essay Topics

Describe a recreational activity that significantly impacted your life or community, and how it did so.
Discuss a time you demonstrated leadership in organizing an event or activity, highlighting the challenges and outcomes.
If you could design a new recreational program for your community, what would it be and why?
Explain how leisure activities contribute to overall well-being and social connection, drawing from personal observations or experiences.

Alternative Path

You can also enter the field through an Associate's degree in Parks and Recreation or a related field at a community college, which may allow you to transfer credits towards a Bachelor's degree. Additionally, certifications in specific areas like event planning, outdoor leadership, or youth development can provide entry-level opportunities.

Core Subjects

Click on "i" to learn more about each subject

Career Prospects

Growing Study Prospects

Upon graduation, you can pursue diverse roles such as Recreation Coordinator for municipal parks and recreation departments, Event Manager for corporate or non-profit organizations, Youth Program Director, Outdoor Adventure Guide, or Cruise Ship Activities Director. You could also work in resort management, corporate wellness programs, or within specialized areas like therapeutic recreation.

Impact of AI on this Study

AI is increasingly impacting this field by assisting with personalized recreational recommendations, optimizing facility scheduling, and enhancing safety through predictive analytics. You might learn to use AI-powered tools for data analysis to understand participant preferences, manage logistics for large events, or even create virtual reality recreational experiences to broaden access and engagement.