Academic Catalog - 2024-2025

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Department of Geography, Planning, and Recreation

Parks and Recreation Management, Master of Science


Academic Information

This plan is not accepting students.

The Master of Science in Parks and Recreation Management (PRM) will prepare students for administrative and management positions in parks, recreation and leisure services organizations.  Graduates of this program will have the ability to apply advanced management skills, theories to current and future challenges in an ever-changing social paradigm. The courses focus on contemporary, park and recreation management best practices, geographic information systems (GIS) experience, diversity issues, staffing and personnel, strategic marketing, legal applications, research application and evaluation, and the shift to a service-driven global economy.

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Academic Catalog - 2024-2025

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Department of Geography, Planning, and Recreation

Parks and Recreation Management, Master of Science


Careers

What Can I Do with a Master of Science in Parks and Recreation Management?

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.

Career opportunities that might be pursued:
  • Land management agency administrator/supervisor
  • Municipal park and recreation manager/director
  • Resort or private recreation manager
  • Camp director
  • Event/Meetings manager
  • Recreation youth/adult program manager

With further education, one of these paths is possible:
  • University/College professor
  • Parks and recreation consultant
  • County, city or public works manager

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Academic Catalog - 2024-2025

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Department of Geography, Planning, and Recreation

Parks and Recreation Management, Master of Science


University Requirements

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Academic Catalog - 2024-2025

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Department of Geography, Planning, and Recreation

Parks and Recreation Management, Master of Science


Overview

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

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Academic Catalog - 2024-2025

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Department of Geography, Planning, and Recreation

Parks and Recreation Management, Master of Science


Details

Graduate Admission Information
Additional Admission Requirements
Master's Requirements
Additional Information
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Academic Catalog - 2024-2025

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Department of Geography, Planning, and Recreation

Parks and Recreation Management, Master of Science


Campus Availability

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