Program Overview

Introduction to Recreation Management

A degree in Recreation Management prepares individuals for a dynamic career where they can shape unforgettable experiences in parks, outdoor recreation areas, and community spaces. As a recreation manager, one will have the opportunity to oversee exciting programs ranging from outdoor adventure expeditions and eco-tourism initiatives to community festivals and youth sports leagues.

Degree Programs

The Recreation Management program offers the following degrees:

• Bachelor of Arts in Recreation with concentrations in:
  • Parks and Recreation Management
  • Outdoor Recreation and Adventure Leadership
  • Tourism Management
• Minor in Recreation
• Minor in Event Planning Management
• Master of Arts in Recreation Administration

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Recreation Management program can hold professional positions such as:

• National, state, and municipal parks and recreation coordinators, managers, supervisors, directors
• City managers
• Community services directors
• Park naturalists and park rangers
• Senior center directors in hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation programs
• University recreation center and intramural directors
• Athletic sports program managers
• Facility managers
• Student services managers
• Outdoor adventure and day camp directors
• Recreation facility or club managers
• Travel and tourism agents or guides
• Sporting goods sales representatives
• Amusement park, hotel, or resort managers
• Military recreation and employee services specialists
• Social director and event managers
• Nonprofit and volunteer services managers

Work Settings

Recreation Management graduates can work in various settings, including:

• City parks and recreation departments
• National, state, and regional parks
• Outdoor adventure companies and eco-tourism agencies
• Nature preserves, wildlife refuges, and conservation areas
• Event Planning, Destination Marketing, and Convention Agencies
• Trails and outdoor recreation areas (hiking, biking, and water sports)
• Historical and cultural sites with tourism programs

Career Outlook and Pay

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for Recreation Workers are expected to grow faster than average (5%) for the next ten years. Median annual wages for various positions in the field are:

• Park and Recreation Agency Director: $123,000
• Planning Director: $106,500
• Director of Finance: $100,245
• Recreation Director: $90,000
• Park Operations Director: $85,000
• Park Operations: $65,952
• Facilities Manager: $70,000
• Athletics Supervisor: $60,347
• Aquatics Supervisor: $64,500
• Recreation Programs Coordinator: $58,000
• Marketing and Communications Director: $70,000
• Fitness Center Manager: $60,181
• Administrative Assistant: $47,840 Median annual wages in California are:
• Recreation supervisors: $53,710
• Recreation coordinator: $60,000 $95,000
• Recreation director: $175,000 $211,000 Wages vary with job location and level of experience.

Interests, Skills, and Values

Recreation managers should possess:

• Service orientation: a desire to share their passion for recreation and leisure activities with others
• Problem-solving skills: the ability to design activities for people of different ages and abilities
• Communication skills: the ability to give clear instructions when directing activities
• Leadership skills: the ability to lead both small and large groups
• Physical stamina: the ability to demonstrate activities and be on their feet for extended periods

Related Careers

Related careers to Recreation Management include:

• Fitness
• Hospitality Management
• Physical Education/Adapted Physical Education
• Public Policy and Administration
• Recreational Therapy
• Social Work
• Sports Industry