The Bachelor of Science degree in Park, Recreation, and Tourism Studies with a concentration in Park and Recreation Management prepares students for careers as professionals working in city/county, state and federal agencies, YMCAs, outdoor leadership schools such as Outward Bound and NOLS, camps, environmental centers, college outdoor programs, and other non-profit organizations.
Program Highlights
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Multiple PRTS courses in the park and recreation management concentration require service-learning experiences. Examples include: Family Diabetes Camp, ODU Triathlon, ODU Triathlon Camp, and Trail Ambassador training on the Elizabeth River Trail
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Coursework prepares students to certify as Wilderness First Aid providers, Climbing Wall Belayers, and Park and Recreation Professionals
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Students have the opportunity to pursue research with a faculty member as an independent study such as summer camp evaluations, visitor use management in national parks, and the impact first-year outdoor orientation programs
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Students take classes from park and recreation professionals working full-time in the field.
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Courses provide community-engaged learning opportunities with local agencies.
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The degree culminates in an internship experience with a park and/or recreation organization before graduation.
Careers
Check out these ideas from ODU's Center for Career & Leadership Development and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Requirements
Transfer
At ODU, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful...
Featured Courses
This introductory course addresses all of the essential topics that professionals within park and recreation management must know, including: program planning and evaluation, decision making, facility management, human resources, marketing, budgeting and financial planning, and policy making.
This course will cover organization and administration of camp programs and facilities including history, trends, staffing, client needs, finance, marketing, accreditation, research and legal issues. Primary emphasis will be on organized camp programs and their impact on youth and society. Prerequisites: junior standing or permission of instructor.
This course is designed to increase knowledge, skills, techniques, policies and procedures related to outdoor recreation. Students are required to participate in outdoor recreation experiences through the Outdoor Adventure Program and on their own. Prerequisites: junior standing or permission of the instructor.
Cost
Estimated rates for the 2024-25 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Other fees are assessed for special services and certain academic programs. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.
Ways to Save
Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial Aid.
Contact
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Additional Programs
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