An event and meeting planning specialization also is offered as a part of this option. Natural Resource Recreation Management prepares students for employment in park, beach, wildlife refuge, forest settings and other outdoor recreation and park services. The student will administer and manage recreation programs in natural environments and manage the use of natural resources to protect the environment and enhance the outdoor experience. Students administer delivery of a variety of recreation activity programs for agencies primarily serving children, youth and families. In rehabilitation, psychiatric, child life and general hospital settings, students use recreation activities as therapy for rehabilitation and adjustment to physical and mental disabilities.
Students generally become certified therapeutic recreation specialists.
An emphasis in aging is provided for students who seek expertise in serving an older adult population. Also offered is an emphasis in correctional recreation to prepare students to work in rehabilitation programs within the criminal justice system. The student can expect to plan and administer leisure services for the hotel and resort industry and to be involved in resort development. Specializations in regional tourism planning and conference and meeting planning are also offered. The department offers an international exchange program in travel and tourism in Sydney, Australia.