Program Overview

Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Master's Program

The Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Master's Program offers students the opportunity to specialize in areas involving tourism, commercial recreation, natural resource management, or experiential education. At the master's degree (MS) level, students may choose either thesis or non-thesis professional preparation programs.

Master's Program Information

Thesis Track

The thesis track is best suited to individuals who intend to pursue advanced studies beyond the master's degree. It is designed for students who are interested in the scientific study of phenomena related to park, recreation, and tourism management. The thesis option requires a minimum of 36 semester hours of course work, including thesis research.

Non-Thesis Track

The non-thesis option within the academic track is intended for students who are anticipating an administrative or professional position and who are interested in extending the scope of their studies in the discipline accordingly. The non-thesis professional option requires a minimum of 36 semester hours, including an eight-hour practicum, and additional course work in lieu of thesis.

Applying to the Master's Program

To apply to the Master's Program, students must:

• Have an earned bachelor's degree with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher for the final two years of undergraduate work.
• Submit three letters of recommendation.
• Provide a resume indicating background and experience.
• Meet the University's English Proficiency requirements for international applicants.
• Complete an entrance examination, which involves writing an original composition on a specific topic related to parks, recreation, and tourism studies.
• Submit a graduate school application, fee, and official transcripts.
• Note that GRE scores are no longer required but will be considered for admission and funding if applicants choose to include them.

Additional Information

Entrance Examination Information

The entrance examination requires an original composition, not to exceed ten pages, on a specific topic related to parks, recreation, and tourism studies. The composition must be uniquely composed for this exam and should provide faculty with insight into one of the applicant's interests in parks, recreation, and tourism studies.

Application Materials Due Date

Students seeking Fall admission to the MS program should complete their graduate applications by March 1. International applicants are encouraged to allow additional time for the application process.

Graduate Assistantships

Graduate assistantships are available, including traditional departmental research and teaching assistantships to incoming PhD students, as well as special assistantships linked to specific focus areas and research projects. Each assistantship requires 20 hours of work a week for 9 months and includes a monthly stipend, tuition/fee waiver, and subsidized health insurance.

Western Regional Graduate Program

Residents of certain western states are eligible to enroll in the program and pay resident tuition rates through WICHE (Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education).

PRT Graduate Student Advisory Committee

Master's students are represented by the PRT Graduate Student Advisory Committee (GSAC).

Frequently Asked Questions

• When is the application deadline? The deadline for master's program admission to fall and summer semesters is March 1.
• Are there teaching and research assistantships for master's students? Occasionally, these typically involve 20 hours of work each week for nine months and include a monthly stipend, tuition remission, and health benefits.
• Can I be admitted if my previous degrees are not in Parks, Recreation, or Tourism? Yes, if admitted, you may be required to complete some content awareness classes before you can take core graduate classes.
• Do I need to take the GRE to be admitted to your graduate program? No, the GRE is no longer a required part of the graduate application.
• I’ve missed the application deadline, but would like to take a class to see what your program is about. Is this possible? If you are a current University of Utah student, or can become a current student, then you can select courses that might help you in the graduate program.
• Who should I ask to write my letters of recommendation? Previous university instructors are often better able to answer the specific questions regarding your ability to succeed in a graduate program.
• Where do I send my application materials? All materials can be submitted via The Graduate School's Application Portal.
• As a master’s student, when do I have to decide between the Thesis and Professional tracks? This decision can be made in consultation with your faculty advisor during your first semester in the program.
• Do I need a faculty sponsor to be admitted? The availability of faculty advisors does influence admissions, but it is not required to have a faculty sponsor prior to application.
• Where can I find additional information on courses and requirements? Please see the Graduate Student Resource Links for more detailed information about the graduate degrees.