About the Department

Since the mid–1800s, professionals have been hired to provide recreational experiences in order for people to live healthier and happier lives. Today, we refer to these occupations as the Recreation, Parks and Leisure Services Profession. The RPLS profession is involved in a wide variety of settings, serving a diversified population. The following is only a partial list of the many occupations available if you choose a career in RPLS.

• Therapeutic Recreation Specialist in a hospital or a rehabilitation center
• Park Naturalist and Park Ranger in city, state or national parks and forests
• Director of Recreation and Parks for a city or county
• Supervisor of employee recreation programs
• Swimming Pool Manager
• Park Designer
• Guide for wilderness trips
• Youth Director at a YMCA or on a military base
• Camp Director for church or youth agency camps
• Activity Director at a long term care facility
• Program Director for a senior citizens center
• Vacation Travel Planners and Tour Guides
• Cultural Arts Specialist
• Outdoor Recreation Planner for the armed services
• Manager of a golf course, bowling alley or ice rink
• Resort Manager
• Executive Director, Boy Scouts of America
• Recreation Specialist in a treatment center
• Youth Development Specialist
• Director of Youth Ministries
• Adult Programs Coordinator for a Community Education Department
• Convention Manager or Special Events Coordinator
• Intramural Sports Manager or Student Union Director
• Recreation Specialist in a correctional facility

Since leisure services are sponsored by so many different agencies and organizations, it is not surprising that career opportunities are numerous. These opportunities are located all over the United States and extend even out to military bases overseas. People willing to relocate are finding jobs in both traditional and non–traditional career areas. It is estimated that one in every fifteen jobs in the United States relates to recreation and tourism. The great news is that in a recent national study, 75 percent of students graduating with a Bachelor of Science Degree in recreation and parks obtained employment!