To be a leisure service provider, students must understand the social-psychology of leisure behavior, recreational skill leadership, and how to manage leisure service delivery systems. According to the 1994-95 Occupational Outlook Handbook, published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor, the employment of recreation workers is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2005. In 1992 there were approximately 204,000 jobs in recreation. Approximately one half of these jobs were in local, state and federal government agencies with the primary employers being local and county governments. It is recommended that students utilize their electives to further enhance their preparation for meeting career goals.
Departmental advisers have lists of recommended elective courses for students to use.
Students are urged to contact their advisor for counsel on effectively utilizing their electives early in their academic careers or upon admission to the program. The Sport and Leisure Studies Program offers a Bachelor of Science Degree with a major in Recreation. The Department provides all students with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage program services and leisure facilities in the expanding leisure service industry. Through the use of electives included in the program, students are advised into specialized course work that will enhance their career preparation. All students are required to document the completion of 300 hours of field work in either a volunteer or paid capacity prior to their internship.