The Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management program with a concentration in Program Management at North Carolina State University offers students a comprehensive education designed to prepare them for leadership roles in the dynamic fields of parks, recreation, and tourism. This program emphasizes the development of skills necessary to plan, implement, and manage a wide variety of recreational and tourism-related programs and services. Students gain a solid foundation in community development, event planning, facility management, and strategic marketing, equipping them to serve diverse populations and promote healthy, active lifestyles. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical experience, providing opportunities for internships and applied projects that foster real-world skills. Faculty members are experienced professionals dedicated to mentoring students and advancing research in recreation and tourism management. Graduates of the program are well-positioned to pursue careers in public agencies, private organizations, or non-profit sectors, working as program coordinators, facility managers, or tourism development specialists. The program also prepares students for graduate studies in related fields, encouraging lifelong learning and professional growth. With a focus on sustainability and community engagement, the program aims to produce graduates who are not only skilled managers but also advocates for responsible recreation and tourism practices. This concentration is ideal for individuals passionate about creating meaningful recreational experiences and contributing positively to community well-being and economic development. By combining coursework, hands-on training, and industry partnerships, the Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management program with a Program Management concentration at NC State provides a rigorous, rewarding educational experience that aligns with industry standards and the evolving needs of the public and private sectors.

Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management (BS): Program Management (15PRTBS-15PRTPM)

Program requirements for the Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management — Program Management Concentration at North Carolina State University typically include a combination of core courses, concentration-specific coursework, electives, and experiential learning components. Students are expected to complete foundational classes in parks and recreation management, environmental planning, and tourism principles. The core curriculum often encompasses subjects such as Recreation Programming, Parks and Natural Resources Management, Principles of Tourism, and Leadership in Recreation Settings. For the concentration in Program Management, students usually take specialized courses focusing on organizational management, financial administration, marketing strategies, and human resources within recreation and tourism contexts.

In addition to coursework, students are encouraged or required to participate in internships, fieldwork, or practicums to gain practical experience in managing recreation programs, parks services, or tourism enterprises. These hands-on components help students develop leadership skills and apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. Some programs may also involve capstone projects that synthesize learning and demonstrate competency in managing recreation or tourism programs effectively.

To graduate, students generally need to complete a minimum number of credit hours, often around 120-125 semester credits, including general education requirements and major-specific courses. Maintaining a satisfactory GPA, completing a specified number of internship hours, and possibly passing comprehensive exams or presentations may also be part of the graduation process. Students are advised to consult with academic advisors regularly to ensure all program requirements are met and to tailor their coursework to fit career goals within the park, recreation, or tourism industries.

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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.

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The Financing studies for the Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management program with a concentration in Program Management at North Carolina State University encompass a comprehensive overview of the various cost components associated with pursuing this degree. Tuition fees are the primary expense, with undergraduate tuition rates set annually by the university and differing for in-state and out-of-state students. In-state students benefit from lower tuition rates, which contribute to making the program more affordable within the state of North Carolina. Out-of-state students are subject to higher tuition fees, reflecting the university's policy to support local residents while aligning with national tuition standards.

In addition to tuition, students should consider fees for course materials, technology, and laboratory services, which are often included in university fees or billed separately depending on the course requirements. The cost of textbooks, software, and other learning resources can add to the financial burden, and students are advised to budget accordingly. Housing expenses, whether on-campus or off-campus, constitute a significant part of the overall cost of attendance. On-campus housing costs include dormitory fees and meal plans, whereas off-campus accommodation varies widely depending on location and amenities.

Students also need to account for personal expenses such as transportation, health insurance, and daily living costs. North Carolina State University offers various financial aid options to assist students in managing these expenses, including federal and state grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and student loans. The university's Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid provides resources and counseling to help students identify and apply for appropriate funding opportunities.

Part-time work opportunities on and around the campus may help students offset some of their expenses, while dedicated departmental scholarships and private funding sources are periodically available specifically for students enrolled in the Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management program. Financial planning is essential, and students are encouraged to explore all available resources early in their academic career to ensure sustainable financing throughout their studies. Overall, the financing of this program requires careful consideration of tuition costs, additional fees, living expenses, and funding opportunities to successfully manage the financial investment required for a degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management at North Carolina State University.

The Bachelor of Science in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management with a Program Management concentration at North Carolina State University offers students a comprehensive education designed to prepare them for leadership roles in the dynamic fields of parks, recreation, and tourism. This program emphasizes developing skills necessary for managing various recreational facilities, tourism enterprises, and community recreation programs. It provides students with a solid foundation in the principles of recreation management, including planning, marketing, budgeting, and leadership, combined with specialized coursework tailored to program management. Students explore topics such as facility operations, event planning, customer service, risk management, and sustainable tourism practices, equipping them to effectively oversee recreation programs and organizations.

The curriculum incorporates practical experiences through internships, service-learning projects, and collaboration with industry partners, which enhance professional readiness and networking opportunities. The program also emphasizes the importance of community engagement and environmental stewardship, preparing graduates to implement innovative solutions for improving quality of life and promoting sustainable tourism. Graduates of the Program Management concentration can pursue careers in public parks and recreation departments, nonprofit organizations, private recreation and tourism companies, and corporate wellness programs. The faculty members are experienced professionals and researchers dedicated to providing a supportive learning environment that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and ethical decision-making.

In addition to coursework, students are encouraged to participate in student organizations related to recreation and tourism, as well as leadership development activities. The program aims to develop competent managers who are capable of designing, implementing, and evaluating recreational and tourism programs that meet community needs and promote healthy lifestyles. With a focus on leadership, innovation, and sustainability, the Program Management concentration prepares graduates to adapt to industry changes and to serve diverse populations effectively. The program aligns with the university’s commitment to experiential learning and community engagement, ensuring students are well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to their professions and communities after graduation.