Undergraduate Emphasis Areas

As part of the recreation and sport management program, students pursue an emphasis area. The combination of the course work in recreation and sport management and the area of emphasis selected create a well-rounded educational base that will prepare graduates to enter into the recreation, leisure, and sport industry.

A detailed curriculum for each emphasis area is coming soon. Students in the recreation and sport management program are encouraged to select one of the following emphasis areas.

Youth Development | Sport Management | Outdoor Recreation | Commercial Recreation | Gerontology | Inclusive Recreation

1. Youth Development
   Students pursuing an emphasis in youth development will learn about the positive physical, emotional, and psychological development of youth and how recreation and sport can play a significant role in the development process. Students will also gain a better understanding of the development, implementation, and evaluation of recreation and sport programs that are specifically designed for the youth population.
2. Sport Management
   Students pursuing an emphasis in sport management will learn about the application of management concepts and theories and how they apply to the sports industry. Sport management is any combination of skills related to planning, organizing, directing, controlling, budgeting, leading, and evaluating within the context of any organizational entity whose primary product or service is related to sport and/or physical activity.
3. Outdoor Recreation
   Students pursuing an emphasis in outdoor recreation will aquire an excellent foundation for students pursuing jobs and careers in the federal park system, various camps, outdoor adventure agencies, or outdoor education agencies.
4. Commercial Recreation
   Students pursuing an emphasis in commercial recreation will learn about the growing commercial recreation industry that provides recreation and leisure for a profit to various populations. Some of these businesses include spas and resorts; amusement parks; entertainment complexes; and health, golf, and fitness clubs.
5. Gerontology
   Students pursuing an emphasis in gerontology learn about the aging process and the specific needs associated with the later life stages. With an emphasis on both classroom study and practical field experience, the program provides students with the knowledge and skills they need to better understand and work with a variety of older adult populations in recreational settings.
6. Inclusive Recreation
   Students pursuing an emphasis in adaptive recreation will gain a comprehensive understanding of the recreational needs of individuals with disabilities. Also, students will gain an understanding of the development and implementation of recreation activities for individuals with disabilities.