Recreation Administration

Bachelor of Science

Receptionist at at ARC Facility.

The Recreation Administration degree at USU provides four different options for students who wish to pursue careers in Sport Management, Public Recreation, Outdoor Adventure Leadership, and Program and Event Management.

A degree in recreation administration (RAM) is a valuable asset for those interested in pursuing careers in recreation and leisure. This program provides hands-on, experiential learning opportunities that prepare students for a profession focused on serving the needs of individuals and communities. Students have the option to specialize in areas such as sports management, outdoor adventure leadership, public recreation, or program and event planning. Through cooperative work experiences and internships, students can gain practical experience and build valuable industry connections. Upon completing their degree, graduates will be well-positioned to enter the dynamic and rewarding $2.9 trillion RAM industry, where they can make a positive impact on the well-being of individuals and communities.

For more information visit the USU Degree Finder.

Tracks


Sport Management

The Sport Management track at USU is your ticket to a thrilling career in the world of sports! Our program will equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the collegiate, professional, and recreational sport industries. In addition to a core set of classes in recreation administration, you'll have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as event planning, sports marketing, and athlete management. Our alumni have gone on to work for top organizations such as Real Salt Lake, the Utah Jazz, Minor League Baseball, community recreational sport organizations, and more. Don't miss your chance to join the ranks of our successful graduates and start your journey toward a dynamic career in the exciting world of sports!

Learn more about the Sport Management Emphasis through the USU Catalog.


Public Recreation

Public Recreation track at USU is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to take on leadership roles in the exciting world of public and non-profit recreation. In addition to a core set of classes in recreation administration, students will have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as park management, community outreach, and program development. Upon graduation, our alumni have gone on to work in a wide range of settings, from municipal recreation organizations and state parks to the National Parks Service and the Army Corp of Engineers. Join the ranks of our successful alumni and start your journey toward a rewarding career in public recreation management today!

Learn more about the Public Recreation Emphasis through the USU Catalog.


Outdoor Adventure Leadership (OAL)

Are you ready for an adventure? The Outdoor Adventure Leadership (OAL) Major will prepare you to step into an entry-level position in the booming outdoor recreation industry in Utah and beyond. The OAL minor will expose you to industry skills and opportunities.USU RAM Alumni are making their mark in a wide range of settings, from USU Outdoor Programs, and Bridgerland Adventure Park to Deer Valley Ski Resort, and Outward Bound. Through courses designed to get you “out-there” you will be ready to take on exciting jobs in land, water, and air-based adventures. Plus, with nearly three-quarters of Utah residents participating in outdoor recreation each year, there is no shortage of opportunities to explore the state’s incredible public lands and make a difference in the $12.3 billion Utah outdoor recreation industry. So why not turn your passion for adventure into a career? Enroll in this major/minor and start your Outdoor Adventure Leadership journey today.

Learn more about the Outdoor Adventure Leadership Emphasis through the USU Catalog.


Program and Event Management

The Program and Event Management track is perfect for those looking to take their careers to the next level in the exciting world of conferences, events, and recreation. With a focus on developing the skills and knowledge needed to excel in managerial positions, this track offers a unique blend of classes that cover everything from general Recreation Administration to specialized courses in the field. USU RAM Alumni are making waves in a variety of settings, from USU Event Services and Conferences to Davis County Event Services and community recreation agencies across the country. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your passion for events and recreation to the next level.

Learn more about the Program and Events Management Emphasis through the USU Catalog.

Contact Information

Tom Dickey

Tom Dickey

Peer Advisor

Kinesiology and Health Science

Phone: 435-797-1278
Office Location: Advising - HPER 122; TA - HPER 154
Schedule an Appointment
Alice Kenley

Alice Kenley

Academic Advisor

Kinesiology and Health Science

Phone: 435-797-0837
Office Location: HPER 122F
Schedule an Appointment

Program Director

Nate Trauntvein

Nate Trauntvein

Associate Professor

Kinesiology and Health Science

Phone: 435-7971509
Office Location: HPER 128

Admission Requirements


In addition to Utah State University’s admissions requirements, the recreation administration program has additional requirements:

Freshmen: New freshmen admitted to USU in good standing qualify for admission to the recreation administration major.

Transfer Students: Transfer students from other institutions and other USU majors need a 2.5 total GPA for admission to the recreation administration major.

International students have additional admissions requirements.

Graduation Requirements

All graduates, regardless of the type of degree, must satisfy University Studies general education and depth education requirements.

  • Total credits: 120 credits minimum
  • Total credits C- or better: 100 credits
  • Upper-division credits (3000 level or above): 40 credits
  • USU credits (20 upper-division, 10 req. by major): 30 credits
  • USU gpa: 2.0 or better; Overall gpa: 2.5 or better

Tracking Sheets

Meet with your advisor to discuss program requirements and your progress towards graduation.

Tracking Sheet - Sport Management
Public Recreation
Outdoor Adventure Leadership
Program and Event Management