Q: What is Recreation
Management?
A: Recreation Management is a course of study designed to provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to create and deliver recreation and fitness programs in a variety of settings.
Q: Why are recreation and
leisure important?
A:
According to recent studies, Americans actually have more leisure time
than they have had in the past, yet have difficulty using that time in ways
that are meaningful and satisfying.
Stress-related disease, a breakdown of community, and a decrease in the
physical and emotional health status of Americans have become serious concerns
in the
Outcomes associated with recreation and leisure participation lead to healthier people and healthier places to live and play. Participation in leisure and recreation opportunities encourages a connection to neighbors and fellow citizens and promotes pride within the community. Recreation programs are a natural venue for the inclusion of individuals with disabilities. Participation in these programs helps keep people of all ages and abilities active and involved. Additionally, recreation in the natural environment allows for the development of positive behaviors in regard to environmental appreciation and environmental stewardship. Recreation and leisure pursuits should not be seen as a means of “killing time”, rather they are an important and necessary part of a healthy lifestyle leading to healthy individuals and a healthy society.
Q: Are there specialized areas
of study within the Recreation Management major?
A: There are four separate tracks of study within the major. The four tracks include: Fitness, Community/Commercial, Outdoor, and Therapeutic Recreation.
Q: What kinds of classes are
included in the Recreation Management curriculum?
A: The core set of courses in the Recreation Management major focus on a personal understanding of recreation and leisure, the development of the profession, leadership theory and skills, management theory, programming, marketing, program evaluation, and current issues within the profession. Each track has a prescribed set of courses that allow for specialization in each area. The wide array of classes incorporates a theoretical understanding of the material as well as opportunity for hands-on application of the material.
Q: How many college credit hours
are required to be completed in order to graduate with
a bachelor’s degree in Recreation Management?
A: 120 credit hours
Q: Who will be my academic
advisor?
A: Your academic advisor will be one of the professors in the Recreation Management Department. You are commonly assigned an advisor who has knowledge specific to your area of interest and track of study.
Q: Who do I contact with
additional questions about the major?
A: Dr. Rose Ann Neff, Recreation Management Department Chair
Q: What type of career will I be
able to pursue with a degree in Recreation Management?
A: You will find information on career options by visiting the link on our website pertaining to your track of interest.
Q: What is the status of the job
market in my track of interest?
A: Fitness – The employment outlook in this field is very good.
Therapeutic Recreation – although employment opportunities are currently
growing more slowing than in the past, the outlook is still very good for
therapists with bachelor’s degrees and specialized certification.
Outdoor – employment opportunities are difficult to assess due to the wide
range of jobs available within the industry. There has been an increase in
private enterprises, however, a decline in federal funding for parks and outdoor
recreation areas may lead to difficulty finding employment within the
government system (i.e. Park ranger).
Community/Commercial – job venues span a wide range of interest which
allows for greater employment opportunities.
It is important to note that a level of flexibility in geographic destinations may
increase your opportunity for employment and salary options.
Q: What is the salary range for
jobs within the Recreation Management profession?
A: Salaries vary greatly depending on the level of expertise and experience you
bring to the position. An expected range for entry level positions is $25,500 – $33, 900.
Q: In addition to the degree in
Recreation Management are there certifications or
licensures that may make me more marketable?
A: Fitness – Certification by the ACSM, AFAA, ACE, or NSCA may increase
your opportunity for employment.
Therapeutic Recreation – Certification by the National Council on
Therapeutic Recreation Certification is required by most agencies.
Outdoor – Students who complete the Civil Service test, or complete
certification for Wilderness First Responder or as a specialized instructor may
be more marketable.