Careers
Lead. Manage. Direct. Inspire people to lead more active lifestyles and participate fully in life working in a management position in one of the following industries: parks, recreation, tourism or sports.
At a time when more and more people are sedentary, it has become all the more important for professionals in these key industries to inspire our population to lead healthier and more active lives. Be a part of this exciting employment sector that merges entertainment and leisure with healthy living.
Finally, as so much of our normal daily lives and social interactions have been restricted due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many of the parks have remained open. Never in our modern history have parks and other natural spaces been so appreciated for their contributions to our overall health and wellbeing. The online Master of Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Sport Management (MPRTSM) degree program will prepare you to play a leadership role in this newly recognized essential service.
Career Spotlight #1: Parks And Recreation Director
At a time when we as a society need to explore and enjoy the outdoors more than ever, a career as a Parks and Recreation Director is especially important. While the positive outcomes—helping more people enjoy the outdoors—is obvious, the knowledge and skill requirements are not. Because we work with veteran Parks and Recreation Directors, we know exactly what skills, credentials and on-the-ground knowledge is required for this position. For example, a Parks and Recreation Director needs to be prepared to:
- Prepare, present, defend and manage budgets, including both revenue and expenditures
- Plan, supervise, staff and execute recreational programming
- Oversee fundraising, marketing and public relations
This online master’s degree program prepares graduates for the management challenges inherent in this career.
Career Spotlight #2: Sport Facility Manager
Today’s sports facilities are much more than a playing field and seating for spectators. Most sporting event facilities house:
- Practice areas
- Both home and visiting team locker rooms
- Physical therapy facilities
- Storage rooms for equipment
- Press facilities
- Maintenance management and storage rooms
- Food and beverage preparation and serving areas
- Management and promotional offices
Sports facility managers are responsible for the day-to-day operations involved in running the facility. This position requires deep understanding of:
- Planning, buying, selling and leasing of sports facilities
- Facility upgrade, redesign and construction planning, plus the oversight of associated contractors or vendors
- Hiring, management of and budgeting for custodial crews, food and beverage vendors and associated employees.
- Involvement with government agencies regarding compliance with regulations and zoning laws
Our instructors are, or work with, experts in the field of sports facility management. This translates into practical insider knowledge valued by employers in this field.
Job Titles
The online Master of Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Sport Management degree program prepares our graduates for a wide variety of positions. Explore details about the following commonly held job titles:
- Director of Sales
- General Manager
- Conservation Scientist
- Forest / Conservation Technician
- Public Administrator (General)
- Private: Recreation Manager
- Recreation / Activities Worker
- School Athletic Director
- Athletic Trainer
- Physical Education Teacher
- Event Planner
- Event Promotions Marketing Associate
- Facilities Manager
- Marketing Account Executive
- Marketing Manager (General)
Ready to Get Started?
Deepen your knowledge. Get the credentials and knowledge you need to build the career you want. Apply today.