![]() Western Illinois UniversityContact Information:Dr. Francis E. Godwyll
Course Information:
Program Information:
College of Education and Human Services
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Degree/ Level | Title/ English Correspondence | Subject | Credit Hours | Working Language | History |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Minor in Nonprofit Administration Undergraduate |
Nonprofit Administration | 19 Hours |
None listed |
In a world characterized by new technology and rapidly changing human needs, leisure is increasingly recognized for its contribution to a fulfilling life. Leisure is commonly recognized as arts, recreation, entertainment, health and fitness, hospitality, outdoor activities, sport, travel, and tourism. Leisure services are provided through service agencies found in community, commercial, non-profit, and outdoor settings. Students are able to complete the B.S. in Recreation, Park and Tourism Administration on the Macomb campus; additionally, core courses and some electives are offered via livestream and asynchronous course delivery at the Quad Cities campus and beyond. The Bachelor of Science in Recreation, Park and Tourism Administration has been accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Related Professions since 1978. In addition to certifications that can be earned through course work, students graduating from this program are immediately eligible to sit for the Certified Park and Recreation Professional exam, and students who successfully complete the prescribed courses are eligible to sit for the Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist examination. Recent graduates are employed in the design, delivery, management, and evaluation of leisure services across a wide array of industries including: Adapted and Therapeutic Recreation Outdoor Recreation and Resource Management Community Recreation (Park districts, non-profits, youth and public recreation organizations) Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management The B.S. in Recreation, Park and Tourism Administration curriculum allows students to develop leadership skills, problem-solving abilities, and critical thinking skills, and to engage in day-to-day activities associated with managing leisure service industries. Students are able to select among options (Adapted Recreation and Inclusion; Community Organizations; Outdoor Recreation; Recreation, Park and Tourism Administration; and Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management), minors, and electives to enhance their skill sets in preparation for specific careers. A grade of C- or better in each Core Course and a 2.0 GPA for all Core Courses are required for the major. For more information regarding the options and minors, students should speak with the departmental and minor advisors. In addition to the minor in Outdoor Leadership, which provides students opportunities to gain real-world experience through an expedition they help plan, students are provided opportunities to participate in Study Abroad, to engage with professionals through experiential education and field trips, to participate in practicums, and to complete a professional internship. Students earning a B.S. in Recreation, Park and Tourism Administration are well prepared for employment with adapted and therapeutic recreation agencies, non-profit organizations, park districts, university student unions and recreation centers, hospitals, civic and senior citizen centers, state and national parks, camps and outdoor recreation centers, wilderness camping programs, resource management agencies, resorts, destination management organizations, travel and tourism agencies, restaurants, lodging, event planning companies, casinos, private clubs, and cruise lines.