Recreation and Sport Management Concentration, M.S.
Overview
Students who choose to focus on Recreation and Sport Management Concentration within the Master of Science in Sport Management and Recreational Therapy degree are prepared to plan, implement, market, evaluate, and manage recreation programs and events. An emphasis is placed on the application of recreation, park, and leisure services to enhance health, wellness, and quality of life among individuals and communities.
This program of study also covers philosophical and theoretical foundations of the recreation field, which are essential to obtaining higher level job positions. Career opportunities for graduates include positions as an event planner, recreation facility director, or recreation program manager in the public, private, or non-profit sectors. This concentration provides students with all of the requirements necessary to become Certified Park and Recreation Professionals (CPRP).
| Program Highlights | Details / Opportunities |
|---|---|
| Program Structure | The M.S. in Sport Management and Recreational Therapy requires 36 credit hours. |
| Graduate Assistantships | All applicants are eligible to compete for graduate assistantships and a limited number of tuition waivers. Opportunities are available within the department and with local partner agencies. |
| Specialized Coursework | Courses include community development, management, recreation, parks and health, and finance and budgeting. |
| Electives & Certifications | Free electives allow students to pursue additional credentials, such as a Nonprofit Management Certificate. |
| Hands-On Experience | Service-learning and volunteer opportunities provide practical experience in professional and community settings. |
| Thesis or Non-Thesis Track | After discussing career goals with an advisor, students choose a thesis or non-thesis option. Non-thesis students may complete a project, internship, or a combination based on prior professional experience. |
Potential Careers
- Recreation and Parks Administration
- Commercial Recreation Enterprises
- Sport Management
- Natural Resource Management
- Parks and Forestry Management
- Aquatics Director
- Campus Recreation Manager
- Commercial Recreation Business Owner
- Event Planner
- Recreation Supervisor
- Sport Event Planner
- Youth and Adult Sports Coordinator
Students who complete the thesis option may also pursue admission to a Ph.D. program.
APPLY TO PROGRAM
- An undergraduate GPA of 3.00
- Current resume
- Professional statement including graduate program and career goals
- Three reference letters, preferably from a mixture of academic and professional sources
- Interviews are encouraged for all applicants, and required for graduate assistants
