Certification for this field is offered by the NRPA National Certification Board. Continuing education is necessary to remain certified. Certification is not usually required for employment or advancement in this field, but it is an asset. Employers choosing among qualified job applicants may opt to hire the person with a demonstrated record of professional achievement represented by certification. Job Outlook Competition will remain keen for full-time career positions in recreation.
All college graduates are eligible for recreation jobs, regardless of major.
Also, many high school and junior college graduates are eligible, so the number of full-time career jobseekers often greatly exceed the number of job openings. Opportunities for staff positions should be best for persons with experience gained in part-time or seasonal recreation jobs, together with formal recreation training. Those with graduate degrees should have the best opportunities for supervisory or administrative positions. Prospects are better for the large number of temporary seasonal jobs. These positions, typically filled by high school or college students, do not generally have formal education requirements and are open to anyone with the desired personal qualities.