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Recreation, Parks and Tourism

The field of recreation, parks, and tourism makes contributions to physical and mental well-being, community development, and cultural exchange, supporting a higher societal quality of life. Our programs emphasize hands-on, experiential education and end with a semester-long internship. Our undergraduate program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation for Parks, Recreation, Tourism, and Related Professions.

student rock climbing

Degrees and Concentrations Offered

Bachelor of Arts with three concentrations in:

  • Outdoor Recreation and Leadership Concentration  
  • Tourism and Special Events Concentration
  • Recreation Therapy Concentration 

Bachelor of Science with three concentrations in:

  • Outdoor Recreation and Leadership Concentration  
  • Tourism and Special Events Concentration
  • Recreation Therapy Concentration 

Why Study Recreation, Parks and Tourism at Radford?

  • We are the oldest accredited recreation, parks, and tourism program in Virginia.
  • Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, we have premier locations for tourism, outdoor recreation, and special events.. 
  • You can choose from three concentrations for your studies: Outdoor Recreation and Leadership, Tourism and Special Events, and/or Recreation Therapy. 
  • RCPT majors can apply for exclusive scholarships, receive travel funding for professional conferences, and gain valuable certifications.

Career and Internship Opportunities

  • During your last semester, you will receive 9-12 credit hours for completing a 400-560 hour internship. 
  • Jobs in recreation, parks, and tourism are projected to increase 24% in the next 10 years with a median salary of $30,000 annually. 

What Other Opportunities Are Available For Recreation, Parks And Tourism Students At Radford?

You can get involved by attending our department socials and spring gala, joining the Omega Chapter of the Rho Phi Lambda Honorary Fraternity, or working with Radford University’s Adventure Based Learning Experience (RU ABLE).

Degree Requirements

120 credits including 28-31 credits of required major courses including a required internship and 15-39 credits in a concentration.

Accreditation

Council on Accreditation, Parks, Recration Tourism and Related Professions

Council on Accreditation for Parks, Recreation, Toursim and Related Professions (COAPRT)
Radford University's Recreation, Parks and Tourism program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation for Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Related Professions (COAPRT). It is the oldest accredited program in the Commonwealth of Virginia. COAPRT accredits baccalaureate programs in parks, recreation, tourism, sport management, event management, therapeutic recreation and leisure studies offered at regionally accredited institutions within the United States and its territories, and at nationally accredited institutions in Canada and Mexico. COAPRT is, in turn, accredited by the Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)

  • 85 students and 41 graduates in 2021-2022

  • 84% of our graduates have immediate employment

    The rest are going to graduate school or taking a voluntary break.

  • 9 credit hours given for internship in final semester

Ten students in the Esports Services minor organized and ran the first live esports tournament during the Big South Basketball Tournament. Our students have access to a state-of-the art 1800 sq. foot Esports Center.

student playing game

“The activities are the best part because we are always doing something. I love being able to branch out and be with all kinds of people on campus, with all kinds of different majors mingling. Being able to create a happy environment and then being able to analyze it has helped build me up as a professional.”

Gifty Kwofie, class of 2024

testimonial

We want to get to know you better and we are excited that you are ready to take your next step and learn more about us. We are here to help you and look forward to working with you during your college search process.