Recreation Administration - BS
About This Degree
A degree in Recreation Administration (RAM) is a valuable asset for those interested in pursuing careers in recreation and leisure.
The degree provides four different emphasis options for students to choose from that wish to pursue careers in Sport Management, Public Recreation, Outdoor Adventure Leadership, or Program and Event Management.
What You Will Learn
This program provides hands-on, experiential learning opportunities that prepare students for a profession focused on serving the needs of individuals and communities.
Students choose to specialize within one of four different emphasis areas in sports management, outdoor adventure leadership, public recreation, or program and event planning.
Through cooperative work experiences and internships, students can gain practical experience and build valuable industry connections. Upon completing their degree, graduates will be well-positioned to enter the dynamic and rewarding $2.9 trillion RAM industry, where they can make a positive impact on the well-being of individuals and communities.
Emphases:
Outdoor Adventure Leadership (OAL):
Are you ready for an adventure? The Outdoor Adventure Leadership (OAL) emphasis will prepare you to step into an entry-level position in the booming outdoor recreation industry in Utah and beyond. The OAL minor will expose you to industry skills and opportunities. Through courses designed to get you “out-there” you will be ready to take on exciting jobs in land, water, and air-based adventures.
Program and Event Management:
The Program and Event Management track is perfect for those looking to take their careers to the next level in the exciting world of conferences, events, and recreation. With a focus on developing the skills and knowledge needed to excel in managerial positions, this track offers a unique blend of classes that cover everything from general Recreation Administration to specialized courses in the field.
Public Recreation:
The Public Recreation emphasis at USU is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to take on leadership roles in the exciting world of public and non-profit recreation. In addition to a core set of classes in recreation administration, students will have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as park management, community outreach, and program development.
Sport Management:
The Sport Management emphasis at USU is your ticket to a thrilling career in the world of sports! Our program will equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the collegiate, professional, and recreational sport industries. In addition to a core set of classes in recreation administration, you'll have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as event planning, sports marketing, and athlete management.
ADVISING
At a Glance
College: Emma Eccles Jones College of Education & Human Services
Department: Kinesiology and Health Science Department
USU Locations:
- Logan campus
Program Requirements
Career And Outcomes
Career Opportunities
With this degree, students are qualified to provide management and programming services for city, state, and federal parks and recreation departments; community agencies (YMCA, etc.); youth-serving agencies (Boy and Girl Scouts, Boys and Girls Clubs, etc.); and commercial agencies doing the following types of work:
- Administering and directing recreational programs (camps, intramurals, and outdoor leadership programs)
- Budgeting
- Designing recreational programs
- Evaluating (conducting basic research) to measure the effectiveness of programs
- Managing personnel
Job Outlook
USU Locations
LOGAN CAMPUS
Admission
Admission Requirements
In addition to Utah State University's admissions requirements, the Recreation Administration program has additional requirements:
- Freshman: New freshmen admitted to USU in good standing qualify for admission to the Recreation Administration major.
- Transfer Students: Transfer students from other institutions and other USU majors need a 2.5 overall GPA for admission to the Recreation Administration major.
International students have additional admissions requirements.
Program Requirements
All students must complete an internship to gain field experience during their junior or senior year.
Take The Next Step
Visit Campus
Schedule a campus tour and come see what it's all about.
Cost and Aid
Learn about tuition, scholarships, and other financial aid opportunities.
How to Apply
Start your degree path and apply now.
You May Also Be Interested In
Health Education and Promotion
Study health topics that prepare you to teach others how to maintain healthy lifestyles and benefit their lives as you choose to focus on community health practices or want to pursue advanced medical training.
Kinesiology
Gain a solid foundation of human movement — from anatomy and physiology to psychology — as you prepare for an advanced degree in exercise science, physical therapy, or medical school, or to teach physical education in public schools.
Outdoor Adventure Leadership
In addition to learning wilderness first aid, this minor provides hands-on experience leading and guiding individuals and groups in numerous outdoor settings so you’re ready for entry level jobs immediately.
Parks and Recreation
This multidisciplinary minor lets you tailor your coursework to match your interests and goals, from recreational sports to outdoor recreation settings. Gain skills for designing and managing recreation and leisure services programs.