Degree Overview: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree in Organizational Management and Recreation
Majors Overview April 30, 2014Receive information about a bachelor’s degree program in Organizational Management and Recreation and its education requirements, coursework, career choices, and continuing education choices.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree Programs in Organizational Management and Recreation
Students interested in the field can join a school that offers a bachelor’s degree program in Organizational Management with a concentration in recreation; however, they can also obtain the same instruction by enrolling in programs in Recreation Leadership or Recreation Management. Generally, students enrolled in such programs are taught ways of working with individuals of various ages in various settings offering recreation services. Students may choose to focus on a subject area within recreational programming, such as leisure, wellness, sports management or adventure education.
Students could be taught about applying learned leadership skills and management principles to encourage and facilitate participation of individuals in leisure activities devised to stimulate emotional or physical growth. Students might also hone skills relating to the effective management of organizations, such as ethical responsibility, decision making and oral communication. The program entails participation by students in internships, field experiences, and supervised employment; students are also required to complete a professional portfolio.
Education Requirements
Admission criteria require applicants to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma. Some schools may encourage incoming students to gain experience through intramural and sports activities.
Coursework
The focus of coursework is usually on management of recreation services. Apart from core coursework, students may have to complete classes in interdisciplinary subjects, such as business writing, lifespan development and government. Coursework may also need to be completed in the area of focus that might cover several topic areas, including community education, personal training and nutrition. Core coursework topics may include:
•Risk management
•Sport sociology
•Recreation budgeting
•Financial management
•Recreation program planning
•Recreation program leadership
•Recreation supervision
Career Choices
Graduates of the program may seek occupations in government agencies, commercial businesses, tourism industries and nonprofits. Students may seek management positions or other positions of responsibility within numerous recreation settings, including:
•Outdoor education facilities
•Commercial sport entertainment facilities
•Community recreation centers
•Health clubs
•Resort businesses
Continuing Education Choices
After they complete a bachelor’s degree program, graduates may opt for continued education by earning a master’s degree program in Recreational Management. Alternatively, students might choose to earn a graduate degree in a field related to organizational management and recreation, such as a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Sports Management or Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Parks and Recreation. Schools also offer master’s degree programs in Organizational Management.