Parks and Recreation Management (Outdoor Education and Leadership) Northern Arizona University

Overview

The Parks and Recreation Management (Outdoor Education and Leadership) at Northern Arizona University provides students with a comprehensive foundation in leisure services and environmental stewardship. This undergraduate programme combines theoretical classroom knowledge with extensive practical field experiences to prepare graduates for supervisory roles in the recreation industry.

The curriculum is designed to foster global awareness, healthy lifestyles, and a deep connection to the natural environment. Students engage in service learning and civic responsibility projects that strengthen local communities while developing their own professional identities. The faculty focuses on small class sizes to ensure high levels of interaction and personalised mentorship throughout the course of study.

Why Parks and Recreation Management (Outdoor Education and Leadership) at Northern Arizona University?

This programme is distinguished by its accreditation from the Council on Accreditation of Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Related Professions (COAPRT). It is also formally recognised by the National Recreation and Park Association, ensuring that the curriculum meets the highest industry standards for professional preparation. Students benefit from the university's unique location, which provides a natural laboratory for outdoor leadership training.

The department emphasises experiential learning, allowing students to gain hands-on skills in diverse settings. Facilities and teaching methods are geared towards expanding scholarly knowledge while enhancing the quality of leisure places and experiences. Partnerships with regional organisations provide students with unique opportunities for on-site field experiences and professional networking within the Southwest region.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 29568 per year
• National fee: USD 29568 per year
• Local fee: USD 11352 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum requires the completion of at least 120 units, including core requirements and specialised emphasis courses. Modules may include:

• Accounting
• Public Speaking
• Parks and Recreation Management
• Leisure in Society
• Program Planning and Evaluation
• Organization and Administration
• Environmental Interpretation
• Outdoor Leadership
• Professional Development
• Wilderness First Responder
• Outdoor Education
• Expedition Planning
• Wilderness Management
• Applied Statistics

Students must also complete a comprehensive internship of at least 400 clock hours over a minimum of 10 weeks. This capstone experience is designed to demonstrate the student's potential to succeed at supervisory levels within park and recreation organisations.

Careers with Parks and Recreation Management (Outdoor Education and Leadership)

Graduates are prepared for diverse professional careers within the public, private, and non-profit sectors of the recreation industry. Potential roles include wilderness guides, outdoor educators, park rangers, and recreation programme coordinators. The programme equips students with the skills necessary to manage resources and lead groups in remote backcountry settings.

Industries employing graduates include national and state park services, commercial outdoor adventure companies, and community recreation departments. The focus on leadership and critical decision-making ensures that alumni are ready for management positions in tourism and environmental education organisations. Many graduates also find opportunities in non-profit youth development and outdoor leadership schools.