Recreation and athletic management is the coordination of leisure activities in public
and private settings. Graduates are prepared for careers in management and operations
within the growing multi-billion-dollar recreation industry.
Why recreation and athletic management at OSU?
Through experiential learning, students gain practical experience and professional
skills. Our program has a strong national reputation and produces exceptional graduates
who are taught by expert faculty. Ultimately, we bring wonder, joy, excitement and
adventure to others.
Our students have a variety of career options to choose from upon graduation.
Recreation:
Camp programming
City/State/Federal Park management
Interpretive services
Community event management
Athletics:
Athletic programming
Large sporting events
Collegiate sporting events
Recreation facility management
Highlights
Coursework Preview
Laboratory in Recreation Management Gain hands-on experience with activities in all areas of recreation − sports, wellness
and relaxation, aquatics, dance, outdoor recreation, arts and crafts and games
Recreation Program Planning Learn the skills needed to plan and implement a community recreation program.
Recreation in a Technologically Advanced Society Use technology to enhance participant recreation by creating your own recreation game
phone application.
Introduction to Recreation Management Learn about the nature, scope and significance of recreation and leisure.
Facility Design in Recreation ManagementPlanning, design and development of areas and facilities in recreation service delivery
systems.
Campus Recreation, Intramural and SportProgram operations, industry standards, and current issues surrounding these areas
of the recreation industry.
Internship Experiences
Students are empowered to apply their learning within their desired career path through
two required internships completed during the junior and senior year. During their
internships, students gain more than 500 hours of experience in the field where they
develop and apply professional skills such as programming, administration, communication
and conflict resolution. From adventure camps in the mountains to city recreation
services or working with sports teams, faculty work with students to find internships
geared toward their interests.
Student Perspective
“Pursuing the field of recreation management has created opportunities for me to explore
the world of leisure in an exciting new way, with a specific focus on camp administration.
The possibilities are endless! Our degree will prepare you for working in a field
you love, and will provide you with a chance to grow in your knowledge of how recreation
and leisure can promote personal growth and well-being for all individuals. ”
- Erica Nemeth, Recreation and Athletic Management