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The MS in Parks and Recreation Management at Northern Arizona University will provide you with the tools to engage in a career in either the private or public sectors. The coursework will provide a comprehensive approach to the best practices in parks and recreation management. The program of studies includes specialized courses in marketing, human resources, research methods, cultural recreation, geographic information systems (GIS) experience, legal issues and applications.
To receive a master’s degree at Northern Arizona University, you must complete a planned group of courses from one or more subject areas, consisting of at least 30 units of graduate-level courses. Many master’s degree programs require more than 30 units.
You must additionally complete:
Read the full policy here.
In addition to University Requirements:
| Minimum Units for Completion | 30 |
| Additional Admission Requirements | Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required. |
| Fieldwork Experience/Internship | Required |
| Oral Defense | Oral Defense is required. |
| Research | Individualized research is required. |
| Some online/blended coursework | Required |
| Progression Plan Link | View Program of Study |
Purpose Statement
The Master of Science in Parks and Recreation Management is a challenging program that prepares parks and recreation managers for leadership roles in public and commercial organizations. Through a student-centered approach, the program emphasizes the development of a manager’s ability to forecast and address the evolution of recreation and to lead a recreation organization utilizing optimal practices in leadership, management, and in the delivery of recreational services. Specific attention is directed at leadership issues, agency management, the utilization of geographic information systems, legal issues, diversity perspectives, and in emerging trends in park, leisure, tourism and recreation. The program provides for a supportive cohort of parks and recreation management peers, enhanced by instruction by faculty with extensive experience in all aspects of parks and recreation management. Graduates of the program will gain a comprehensive understanding of the dynamic environment of parks and recreation management to be prepared for their vital role in ensuring the access, development, expansion and assessment of future park, recreation, and leisure service opportunities and experiences for individuals, families, and communities. The program is designed for those seeking supervisory roles in parks and recreation management.
Student Learning Outcomes
The NAU graduate online application is required for all programs. Admission to many graduate programs is on a competitive basis, and programs may have higher standards than those established by the Office of Graduate and Professional Studies.
Admission requirements include the following:
Visit the NAU Graduate Admissions website for additional information about graduate school application deadlines, eligibility for study, and admissions policies.
Ready to apply? Begin your application now.
International applicants have additional admission requirements. Please see the International Graduate Admissions Policy.
Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required.
This Master’s degree requires 30 units distributed as follows:
Elective Coursework (6 units)
Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.