Parks and Recreation — Track in Resort, Recreation and Hospitality Management

The Parks and Recreation—Track in Resort, Recreation and Hospitality Management program at Slippery Rock University offers students a comprehensive education in the principles and practices of managing recreational facilities, outdoor parks, resorts, and hospitality enterprises. This specialized track is designed to prepare students for a dynamic and rewarding career in the recreation and leisure industry by providing them with a solid foundation in management, leadership, and program development tailored to the unique needs of parks, recreation centers, resorts, and hospitality venues. Students will explore topics such as facility management, event planning, outdoor recreation, customer service, marketing, financial management, and sustainable practices in recreation settings. The curriculum emphasizes practical experience through internships, hands-on projects, and collaboration with local recreation agencies and hospitality businesses. Graduates of this program are equipped to undertake leadership roles in municipal, private, and non-profit organizations, managing recreational programs, developing outdoor recreational areas, coordinating events, and enhancing visitor experiences. The program also focuses on fostering skills in teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and environmental stewardship to ensure graduates are prepared for the challenges and opportunities in the recreation and hospitality sectors. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty, students receive a well-rounded education that combines theoretical knowledge with real-world application. This program aims to produce graduates who are passionate about enhancing the quality of life through recreation and leisure services, and who can contribute to their communities by promoting healthy lifestyles, environmental awareness, and sustainable tourism practices. Whether students are interested in managing a public park, operating a resort, or developing outdoor recreational activities, the Parks and Recreation—Track in Resort, Recreation and Hospitality Management provides the rigorous training and industry connections necessary for success.

Detailed Course Facts

• English

Course Content

Parks and Recreation Core: Credits - 42

• PREE 110 - Foundations of Parks and Recreation I Credits: 3
• PREE 111 - Foundations of Parks and Recreation II Credits: 3
• PREE 120 - Inclusive Leisure Services Credits: 3
• PREE 214 - Parks and Recreation Planning Credits: 3
• PREE 215 - Park and Recreation Public Relations Credits: 3
• PREE 222 - Recreation Programming and Leadership Credits: 3
• PREE 316 - Management of Leisure Services and Commercial Facilities Credits: 3
• PREE 318 - Park and Recreation Administration Credits: 3
• PREE 351 - Practicum Credits: 3
• PREE 415 - Challenges and Trends in Parks and Recreation Credits: 3
• PREE 450 - Internship Credits: 12

Resort Recreation Management/Tourism: Credits - 18

• PREE 311 - Principles of Commercial Recreation/Tourism Credits: 3
• PREE 312 - Commercial Recreational Feasibility Studies Credits: 3
• PREE 416 - Group Recreation Programming Credits: 3
• PREE 417 - Hotel/Lodging & Hospitality Management Credits: 3
• PREE 436 - Event Planning & Tournament Structure Credits: 3
• MRKT 330 - Principles of Marketing Credits: 3

Requirements

Slippery Rock University has a strong commitment to student success, and we thoroughly research the academic background of the students who tend to succeed at SRU. We use this information to establish admission guidelines for first year students (new freshmen). We are seeking students who have attained at least a 3.0 GPA at the time of admission, have demonstrated proficiency in college preparatory coursework, and who have average to above average scores on the SAT or ACT. We will accept either test and use the best scores available. Offers of admission for new freshmen from high school may be made as soon as August following their junior year in high school. High school admitted students are required to submit proof of high school graduation in the form of Official Transcripts upon high school graduation.

In order to apply for admission, the following credentials are required:

• Official High School Transcripts, including a 12th Grade class schedule if applicable

• SAT or ACT Scores

• $30.00 application fee

WAIT LIST: Applicants who do not meet the admission guidelines are still encouraged to apply for admission if they are close to our admission guidelines. Such applicants may be placed on a wait list for admission consideration. Students who are placed on a wait list need to understand it is not the same as being denied admission. Wait list status simply means that an applicant's credentials may require a closer review beyond just the quantitative numbers. Offers of admission will be made to wait listed applicants on regular intervals.
Wait listed applicants should strive to improve their grades and/or test scores and re-submit them to the Office of Admissions as soon as is practical after the next marking period or re-test. Periodic review of the wait list will likely begin in November and offers of admission made on a rolling basis. Our goal is to have most of the wait list offers of admission made in March or April. A final round of wait list offers may be made in mid-May on a space available basis. We encourage students to submit additional information if it improves the academic record.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Alumni Study Travel Fund

  Scholarships for students who are already attending the University of Reading.

• Amsterdam Merit Scholarships

  The University of Amsterdam aims to attract the world’s brightest students to its international classrooms. Outstanding students from outside the European Economic Area can apply for an Amsterdam Merit Scholarship.

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than Slippery Rock University.

The Parks and Recreation — Track in Resort, Recreation and Hospitality Management at Slippery Rock University offers students a comprehensive education in the management, planning, and operation of parks, recreational facilities, and resort environments. This program is designed to prepare students for careers that promote outdoor recreation, community engagement, and sustainable tourism. The curriculum includes a blend of theoretical learning and practical application, emphasizing leadership skills, environmental stewardship, customer service, and business management within the recreation industry. Students undertake coursework in recreation programming, park management, facility administration, event planning, tourism development, and marketing. The program also emphasizes the importance of inclusivity, diversity, and ethical practices in recreation services. Students have opportunities for internships and field experiences, allowing them to work directly with industry professionals and gain real-world insight into the field. The faculty bring a wealth of industry experience and academic expertise, ensuring that students receive up-to-date knowledge and mentoring. Graduates of this program are equipped to pursue careers in public parks agencies, private resort operations, community recreation departments, non-profit organizations, and tourism boards. They are prepared to take on roles such as recreation director, park manager, event coordinator, resort operations manager, or outdoor recreation specialist. The program's focus on sustainable practices and eco-tourism aligns with current industry trends towards environmental consciousness. Career services and alumni networks support graduates in finding employment and advancing in the recreation, resort, and hospitality sectors. The university’s facilities include recreation labs, outdoor spaces, and access to local parks, which facilitate hands-on learning. Overall, the program aims to develop well-rounded professionals who are passionate about enhancing quality of life through recreation and leisure services, contributing positively to communities and the environment.