Program Overview

Recreation Management (BS) - Recreation and Park Management

The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Recreation Management - Recreation and Park Management from Appalachian State University prepares students for a career in national, state, and municipal parks, as well as sports and facilities management. Applied learning is a significant part of what Recreation Management majors do at Appalachian State, with abundant opportunities to put skills to practice in resorts, camps, national parks, and theme parks.

Application Deadlines

Important dates and deadlines for undergraduate admissions are available.

Location

The program is located on the Boone campus.

Program Description

Parks are home to invaluable natural, cultural, and historical resources. The Recreation Management program at Appalachian State prepares students for a career in preserving and promoting these national treasures. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 8% job growth in this field over the next decade. Nearly all of Appalachian State's Recreation Management students pass the exam required to become a Certified Park and Recreation Professional, the national standard for professionals in the field.

Department and College

The program is offered through the Department of Recreation Management and Physical Education within the Beaver College of Health Sciences.

Research Classification

Appalachian State has earned a Research 2 Carnegie Classification, recognizing the university's high research activity and doctorate production.

Accolades

Appalachian State has been recognized as a top three school for innovation and the high quality of its undergraduate instruction for eight consecutive years by U.S. News & World Report. It is also considered a 'Best College' for value by Money.com.

Courses

• Students pursuing this major explore Leadership and Group Dynamics in Recreation, Recreation Site and Facility Management, and more.
  • View the Program of Study for a detailed list of courses.

Minors

A minor is required.

• View all minors to find one that complements the Recreation Management major.

Transferring Credits

Appalachian State has a credit transfer process in place. The Transfer Equivalency Course Search tool can be used to determine how courses may transfer.

Related Programs

• Recreation Management (BS) - Commercial Recreation and Tourism Management
• Recreation Management (BS) - Outdoor Experiential Education

General Education

The General Education Program at Appalachian State includes courses in history, natural and social sciences, and humanities, providing a foundational skill set that prepares students for any career.

Accelerated Master’s

Students can begin their graduate studies as undergraduates and earn their master's degree in as little as one year.

Careers

• Aquatic Facility Management
• Camp Management
• Campus and Intramural Recreation
• Community Recreation
• Destination Management
• Environmental Interpretation
• Military Recreation
• Sport Management
• Youth Development
• Municipal, State, and National Parks Management
  • Some of these roles may require education beyond a bachelor’s degree.

Career Information Resource

The Career Development Center at Appalachian State provides services including resume reviews, career coaching, job and internship search assistance, and other tools for achieving life and professional success.

Alumni and Faculty Profiles

• Alumna Profile: Marisa Sedlak ’14 ’20, recognized by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) in its “30 Under 30 for 2021” feature.
• Faculty Profile: Kristian Jackson, Senior Lecturer, applies his passion for mountain biking into stewardship, community service, and educational opportunities for his students.