Summary
The Recreation Management major within the College of Education and Human Development is designed to prepare students for leadership and administrative roles in diverse recreational and sport organizations, encompassing public, non-profit, commercial, and recreational sport sectors. Graduates gain essential skills in leadership, administration, program planning, and practical management, enabling them to effectively operate diverse recreation and sport organizations.
Program Stats
97%
of College of Education and Human Development graduates working full time have a job related to their degree
98%
of College of Education and Human Development graduates participated in Experience-Driven Learning
95%
of College of Education and Human Development graduates working are satisfied with their job
Pursue a Bachelor of Science in Recreation Management
Through the Department of Human Performance and Health Education, the recreation management program combines core principles of program development, administration, and community engagement with specialized knowledge of recreational facilities, natural resource management, and diverse leisure activities. Completing this degree program is the ideal path for anyone looking to transform their passion for promoting well-being and active lifestyles into a dynamic and impactful professional career, managing the intricate operations that enrich communities and enhance quality of life through recreation.
Additionally, the recreation management program doesn't just give you a bachelor's degree; it lets you customize your expertise with minors in high-demand fields like general business, communication, coaching, or event management, setting you up for diverse roles in the exciting recreation industry.
What you’ll learn
At WMU, you'll gain the comprehensive knowledge in planning, organizing, and managing recreational services and facilities. You'll learn essential administrative skills, including program development, marketing, finance, and legal aspects specific to the recreation and sport industry. The curriculum also emphasizes practical experience, often through internships, preparing you for leadership roles in diverse settings from parks and community centers to sports organizations.
Student quote
The program is amazing and the faculty are so supportive of their students.
Where you’ll be after graduation
A Recreation Management degree unlocks diverse and exciting careers, from leading as a park ranger or camp director to managing operations with professional sports teams as a team manager. You could also become a collegiate or interscholastic sports athletic director, or pursue roles in media or non-profit organizations like YMCA.
For 95% of College of Education and Human Development grads, they got that job or got into that graduate school program after graduation. That is because your journey of self-discovery begins the moment you step on campus. At WMU's Career and Student Employment Services, career specialists help you align your passions and abilities with future careers and advanced degrees. They will connect you to practical experiences like internships, job shadowing, research projects and professional mentors.
Making the most of your learning experience
In the College of Education and Human Development, you'll embark on an incredible journey of experiential learning that goes beyond textbooks. Collaborating closely with faculty members, you'll dive into cutting-edge research, fieldwork and professional pursuits. Pushing the boundaries of the traditional classroom, you'll gain practical skills and make a tangible impact.
The recreation management program emphasizes real-world experience, requiring 100% of students to complete an internship or field experience. This commitment to practical training provides you with invaluable opportunities to work with diverse recreational organizations, from community centers and park systems to sports teams and event venues, preparing you for a seamless transition into your career.
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Are scholarships available?
Yes! You've put in the hard work—now it's time to see your reward.
Scholarships are an excellent way to help the reduce the costs of higher education. Whether you are entering college for the first time, transferring to WMU from another institution or returning from a gap in your education, be sure to check out our scholarship options. Students earn scholarships for financial need, academic success and promoting multicultural awareness. Most are offered on a competitive basis.
