Recreation, Event and Sport Management

A degree in this area prepares you for entry-level positions in all aspects of the sports, special events and recreation services industry. Places where you may be employed include:

• Community sports associations
• Faith-based organizations
• Federal, state or municipal park and recreation agencies
• Fitness facilities
• Municipal convention and visitor bureaus
• Numerous public, nonprofit and private camp organizations
• Professional, semipro and collegiate sports organizations
• Special events management
• Special needs organizations

What we offer

The course structure will enable you to apply theoretical knowledge to practice and to step into an exciting and rewarding career. We provide options to study sports management, event management or program management.

Our faculty members bring experience and expertise to the classroom in:

• Community programming
• Diverse populations
• Management of leisure services
• Older adults

Special events and festival management

• Sports operations and facility management
• Trail use and development

There are several college-wide, departmental and program scholarships available to help you pursue your degree.

What to expect

You'll take courses that emphasize life development, wellness and communication skills. You'll also learn how to plan, design, implement and evaluate any type of recreation, event or sports program. Some of the course work includes:

• History and philosophy of sports and leisure
• Leadership and management
• Planning, managing and operating sport or recreation facilities
• Recreation program planning and evaluation
• Risk analysis
• Special events planning and management
• Tournament and league operations

During your senior year, you're required to complete a 12-credit-hour internship. Our internship advisor will help you choose an internship aligned with your career goals. This particular service is in addition to those career services provided by the university.