In the following ranking, we take a look at the top 25 best affordable online Bachelor’s in Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies degrees. Since this field is vast and encompasses several disciplines, the following degrees are offered not only in the parks, recreation and leisure studies major but also in areas such as hospitality and tourism as well as sports management. In today’s economy, value is one of the most important considerations for prospective undergraduates, and major concerns include program flexibility, financial aid, cost and quality. Therefore, we have compiled the following ranking based on affordability, student success, and class size to give you a comprehensive idea of available, high-quality programs in this industry.
Methodology
To give our readers a solid picture of each degree and school, we awarded points based on tuition, graduation rates and student-to-faculty ratios. To get our initial list of schools, we searched for the term “parks, recreation and leisure studies bachelor’s degree” using the College Navigator tool at the National Center for Education Statistics. We then narrowed down the pool of 30 colleges and universities before finding the top 25 programs based on the ranking methodology. We also checked our data with each school’s website to verify accuracy.
Average Cost of Attendance
The first thing prospective students often look at in a program is the cost. While we understand that tuition plays a big part in whether or not a student chooses to attend a particular school, it is just as important to consider everything else the college or university has to offer such as internships, extracurriculars or a certain major. Below, we ranked tuition based on the cost of one academic year of study using tuition rates obtained from the NCES. We also provided costs for out-of-state students as well, though we did not base points on these figures.
Points:
Under $7,500: 5 points
$7,500 to $15,000: 3 points
$15,001 and above: 1 point
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
As you narrow down your options for a Bachelor’s in Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies degree, it is important to keep in mind the learning environment at each prospective school. Although there are always exceptions, universities with high ratios may not provide the accountability a student might need due to large class sizes, while colleges with low ratios might offer opportunities for individualized studies, mentoring and close relationships between students and faculty. For this article, we gathered ratios from NCES and then we awarded the most points to the latter based on the following ratios
Points:
10:1 or less: 3 points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 points
Greater than 15:1: 1 point
Graduation Rate
Graduation rates act as a window through which a prospective student can see student satisfaction and success. For instance, students who are happy at a particular school are more likely to remain enrolled and graduate with their degree. On the other hand, students who are unhappy due to a lack of academic support, unaffordable programs or inexperienced faculty, for example, may be more likely to leave and finish their studies elsewhere. Therefore, schools with the highest graduation rates, as reported by NCES, earned the most points in the following ranking.
Points
More than 50 percent: 3 points
Between 30 percent and 50 percent: 2 points
Less than 30 percent: 1 point
Ranking 25 Best Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies Degrees
25. Salem University
Salem, West Virginia
Points: 3
Program Website
Located in West Virginia, Salem University is a private institution of higher education and a top choice for students seeking an economical parks, recreation and leisure studies degree. Established in 1888 by the Seventh-day Baptist Church, the school confers an inexpensive online B.S. in Business Administration with a concentration in sports and recreation management. In addition to completing online coursework in business, students can further focus their degree through topics such as current regulatory and legal issues in sports and operations management, marketing and budgeting for teams, facilities and sporting events. Graduates of this online sports and recreation management degree program are prepared for careers as general managers, marketing managers, parks and recreation workers and meeting, convention and event planners.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Sports & Recreation Management
In-State Tuition: $16,700
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,700
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22:1
Graduation Rate: 22 percent
24. Post University
Waterbury, Connecticut
Points: 3
Program Website
Established in 1890 as Matoon Shorthand School, Post University is a private university located in Waterbury, Connecticut. Students seeking an affordable degree in parks, recreation and leisure studies may pursue an online Bachelor’s in Sport Management that begins with the foundations before building students’ knowledge in specific areas as they relate to sports such as economics, law, marketing, events and facility management, sports administration and societal sports. Students can choose from a concentration in sports communication or sports psychology, and they are required to complete an internship and capstone course to gain valuable hands-on experience in sports management. Graduates of this best-value online degree program may find employment opportunities with high school and collegiate athletic departments, professional sports teams and YMCAs. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Sport Management
In-State Tuition: $16,610
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,610
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: 20 percent
23. Missouri Baptist University
St. Louis, Missouri
Points: 4
Program Website
Established in 1957, Missouri Baptist University is a private, Christian liberal arts institution of higher education located in St. Louis. MBU confers an affordable online bachelor’s degree in sports management that prepares students with the skills and knowledge they need to facilitate, administer and organize sports events and programs at all levels. Students must complete 128 semester hours of coursework, including an 18-credit minor in business administration. Online coursework covers topics such as sports management, communication, governance and leadership, marketing, finance, facility management, sociology, psychology and law. Students are also required to complete a six-hour sports management internship before graduating. Graduates of this low-cost online bachelor’s degree in sports management program are prepared for careers in sports broadcasting, public relations and sports administration.
Degree Options:
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Sport Management
In-State Tuition: $27,124
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,124
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 36 percent
22. Midway University
Midway, Kentucky
Points: 4
Program Website
Established in 1847, Midway University is a private, Christian liberal arts university located in Kentucky, and it was the only women’s college in the state until 2016. Today, students may pursue a high-value parks, recreation and leisure studies degree in the form of an affordable online Bachelor’s in Sports Management. The curriculum combines management and business principles with marketing, events and sports to prepare graduates for management-level roles in private, public, community and business settings including as a fitness and recreation manager. The degree is available entirely online, and full-time students may complete the required 120 credit hours within four years. Midway offers exciting internship opportunities that allow students to apply what they know and grow their resumes.
Degree Options:
Sports Management
In-State Tuition: $24,750
Out-of-State Tuition: $24,750
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Graduation Rate: 37 percent
21. Liberty University
Lynchburg, Virginia
Points: 4
Program Website
Recognized as an affordable university for a parks, recreation and leisure studies degree, Liberty University is a private Christian institution of higher education in Lynchburg, Virginia. One of the largest Christian universities in the world, Liberty offers an inexpensive online bachelor’s degree in sports management that provides students with an interdisciplinary sports management curriculum built on a biblical worldview. Five specializations are available in addition to the general program: Sports Communication and Public Relations, Conference and Event Management, Sports Venue Management, Sports Outreach and Sports Administration. After completing the required coursework, students of this cheap online bachelor’s are prepared for careers in professional sports organizations and intercollegiate athletics as well as volunteer agencies, public recreation and park systems and facility and event management.
Degree Options:
Online Bachelor in Sports Management Degree
In-State Tuition: $22,584
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,584
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 50 percent
20. United States Sports Academy
Daphne, Alabama
Points: 4
Program Website
Established in 1972 and located in Daphne, Alabama, the United States Sports Academy is a sport-specific institution of higher learning that economical offers undergraduate and graduate programs both on-campus and online. The Academy offers four cost-effective online Bachelor of Sports Science (B.S.S.) degrees: Strength and Conditioning, Sports Studies, Sports Coaching and Sports Management. Those seeking a low-cost parks, recreation and leisure degree may consider the sports management program and gain the expertise needed for careers in community relations, front office management, college and high school athletic department management, sports information and sports facilities management. Online courses cover topics such as sports agents, fundraising, public relations, ethics and personnel management as well as leadership and management, sports facility management, sports marketing and sports law and risk management.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Sports Science
In-State Tuition: $16,200
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,200
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 8:1
Graduation Rate: N/A
19. Johnson & Wales University
Providence, Rhode Island
Points: 4
Program Website
Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island began as a business school in 1914 but has since grown into a private career-oriented university enrolling more than 7,700 undergraduate and graduate students. JWU’s affordable online Bachelor of Science in Sports, Entertainment and Event Management at JWU consists of 11-week courses that can be completed in four years. Through the online curriculum, students acquire a strong foundation in business and build upon that knowledge with advanced coursework in areas such as negotiations and agreements, venue management, ticketing methods and media literacy. Undergraduates of this cheap online degree program also have the opportunity to specialize their degree according to their chosen career paths via major elective classes such as concert and event production, tournament management, sports and entertainment marketing as well as professional sports management and event planning within the hospitality, nonprofit and corporate industries.
Degree Options:
B.S. — Sports, Entertainment, Event — Management
In-State Tuition: $13,365
Out-of-State Tuition: $13,365
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: N/A
18. Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, New Hampshire
Points: 5
Program Website
Southern New Hampshire University, located in Manchester, New Hampshire, is a private university and one of the fastest-growing institutions of higher learning in the country. Students seeking a high-value parks, recreation and leisure studies degree may consider pursuing the online Bachelor of Science in Sport Management. This low-cost online program boasts a 25-plus-year history of preparing graduates for successful careers in the dynamic sports industry. From selling sponsorship to building a brand, students develop real-world skills through experiential learning and coursework. The curriculum includes liberal arts and business courses as well as eight core classes and culminates with a six-credit experiential learning course in the form of an internship. An accelerated B.S.-to-M.S. pathway is also available.
Degree Options:
Online Bachelor of Science in Sport Management
In-State Tuition: $31,136
Out-of-State Tuition: $31,136
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 24:1
Graduation Rate: 54 percent
17. Shorter University
Rome, Georgia
Points: 5
Program Website
One of the most affordable universities for a parks, recreation and leisure studies degree, Shorter University is a private Baptist university located in Rome, Georgia. Founded in 1873, Shorter University offers an economical online Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Sport Management that is designed to provide undergraduates with specialized education in the field of sports management. The online curriculum is based on a foundation in the business of sports, ranging from the history of sports to current issues in today’s society. Students can expect coursework that focuses on the management of sporting organizations, including commercial ventures, public or government employment settings and private enterprises. The program is fully online, allowing students flexibility and helping them to develop skills in prioritization, organization and time management.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Business Administration in Sport Management
In-State Tuition: $22,370
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,370
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 46 percent
16. Concordia University-Saint Paul
St. Paul, Minnesota
Points: 5
Program Website
Located in Minnesota, Concordia University-Saint Paul is a liberal arts university and a top choice for students looking for a top-value parks, recreation and leisure studies degree. The affordable online Bachelor’s in Sport Management focuses on core concepts in sports theory, kinesiology and business. Available entirely online, each course lasts approximately seven weeks, and students must complete 45 hours of study within the major as well as general education requirements to graduate. Online coursework includes topics in sports theory and business administration, and students have opportunities to apply what they have learned to real-world settings. Graduates of this low-cost sports management program are prepared to work in community relations, public relations, sports marketing, coaching and athletics.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Sport Management
In-State Tuition: $22,275
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,275
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 59 percent
15. California Baptist University
Riverside, California
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded as California Baptist College in 1950, California Baptist University is a private, Christian liberal arts institution of higher learning located in Riverside California. Affiliated with the California Southern Baptist Convention, CBU offers an inexpensive online Bachelor of Arts in Sport, Recreation and Fitness Management for students seeking a top-value parks, recreation and leisure studies degree. Within this online degree program, students must complete 49 units of study for the major and can earn their degree within 16 months of full-time study. Major online coursework focuses on the sociology of recreation, fitness and sport, including wellness, personnel management, marketing, economics and finance, administration, event and facilities management, ethics, communication and leadership. Undergraduates of this college with a parks and recreation major also receive valuable experiential learning and training to meet future and current trends in the industry.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Sport, Recreation and Fitness Management
In-State Tuition: $33,478
Out-of-State Tuition: $33,478
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 76 percent
14. McKendree University
Lebanon, Illinois
Points: 6
Program Website
Students researching the most affordable universities for a parks, recreation and leisure studies degree may consider attending McKendree University, a private liberal arts university in Lebanon, Illinois. Founded as Lebanon Seminary in 1828, it is the oldest college in the state. The school’s top-value online Bachelor of Business Administration in Sport Management provides students with training and education in key areas such the legal aspects of sports management, sport and health psychology, facilities and event management, sports marketing, and sports economics and finance. Courses within the 120-credit-hour program are delivered entirely online, each of which lasts approximately eight weeks. Students must devote one full semester to an internship in sports management to graduate. Those who earn their degree are prepared for careers in which they manage sports facilities, community organizations, fitness centers and sports-related businesses.
Degree Options:
Online Sport Management Degree
In-State Tuition: $30,520
Out-of-State Tuition: $30,520
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 54 percent
13. Toccoa Falls College
Toccoa Falls, Georgia
Points: 6
Program Website
Recognized among the most affordable colleges for a parks, recreation and leisure studies degree, Toccoa Falls College is a private, Christian liberal arts institution of higher learning in Georgia. Established in 1907, TFC is affiliated with the Christian and Missionary Alliance. Students may pursue an economical online sports management major taught from a biblical perspective that integrates practice and faith. Through the online curriculum, students learn the skills required to succeed in the industry and become Christian servant leaders with the ability to market and manage sports facilities, events, media and organizations. Undergraduates of this low-cost online degree program may further focus their degree through minors in sports management, physical education coaching, organizational leadership, nonprofit business administration, marketing and management.
Degree Options:
Sport Management
In-State Tuition: $22,744
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,744
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 59 percent
12. University of Minnesota-Crookston
Crookston, Minnesota
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 1966, the University of Minnesota-Crookston is a four-year university located in Crookston, Minnesota and one of five campuses that make up the University of Minnesota System. UMN Crookston offers a best-value parks, recreation and leisure studies degree in the form of an online Bachelor’s in Sport and Recreation Management. Students must complete 120 credits to graduate, including core online coursework in athletics administration, sports finance and economics, sports ethics and leadership, sports marketing and communication, law and governance, activities and facilities management and sports and recreation management. Outside of the classroom, students gain hands-on experience through a required internship, study-abroad opportunities, networking and job-shadowing. Graduates of this college with a sport and recreation management degree are prepared for careers in sports broadcasting, administration, marketing and promotions, fundraising, management and athletics.
Degree Options:
Sport and Recreation Management Bachelor of Science (BS)
In-State Tuition: $11,822
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,822
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 48 percent
11. Wilmington University
New Castle, Delaware
Points: 6
Program Website
Wilmington University is a private doctoral research university located in New Castle, Delaware. Founded as Wilmington College in 1968, the school became Wilmington University in 2007. Through its College of Business, Wilmington offers an online Bachelor’s in Sports Management that delves into the exciting business of sports, covering topics such as coaching and team operations, fundraising and facilities management, marketing and media relations. The curriculum integrates hands-on learning with theory and includes a strong business management component. Students can expect to learn from expert faculty who are already in the game as sports agents, sports attorneys, general managers and leaders in collegiate sports. This cheap sports management program is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Sports Management
In-State Tuition: $11,210
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,210
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 24 percent
10. University of Iowa
Iowa City, Iowa
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded in 1847, the University of Iowa is Iowa’s flagship university and both the oldest and second-largest institution of higher learning in the state. Offered through the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the cost-effective online Bachelor’s in Sport and Recreation Management is comprised of 48 semester hours of study, including 27 hours of foundation courses, 12 hours of concentration area courses and a nine-hour field experience. Core online coursework covers topics such as managerial operations in sport and recreation, communications and public relations in sports, sales in sports and contemporary issues in sports as well as sports business practices, recreation promotion, finance, liability and recreation facility design and management. Available concentrations for online students of this cheap sport and recreation management program include interscholastic athletics/activities administration, entrepreneurship, coaching and sports instruction or business studies.
Degree Options:
Online B.S. Degree in Sport and Recreation Management
In-State Tuition: $9,267
Out-of-State Tuition: $31,233
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 73 percent
9. Troy University
Troy, Alabama
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded as Troy State Normal School in 1887, Troy University is a public university in Alabama and a top choice for students seeking an affordable online parks, recreation and leisure studies degree. Troy offers an inexpensive online bachelor’s degree in hospitality, sport and tourism management with an emphasis in sport management designed to help undergraduates develop the skills needed for decision-making, leadership, interpersonal communication and solving complex problems. Core online coursework covers topics such as facility management, legal aspects in sport management, sports communication, finance, sports marketing and management. An internship and at least one 18-semester-hour minor are also required for graduation. This economical online degree program prepares students for careers as coaches and scouts, athlete and sports competitors, agents and business managers, fitness and wellness coordinators, fitness trainers and aerobics instructors.
Degree Options:
Sport Management — Hospitality, Sport and Tourism Management
In-State Tuition: $8,908
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,708
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 43 percent
8. Colorado Mesa University
Grand Junction, Colorado
Points: 6
Program Website
Formerly known as Mesa State College, Colorado Mesa University is a public institution of higher learning located in Grand Junction, Colorado and an affordable university for a parks, recreation and leisure studies degree. At CMU, students may opt for the online B.S. in Sport Management program that provides the practical and theoretical framework for careers that focus on leadership roles as well as the management and marketing of all fitness- and sports-related goods. In addition to preparing students for professions that focus on sports and fitness, the major is also designed to pave the way for graduate-level studies in business administration and sports business through coursework in events management, promotions and marketing. Students are encouraged to participate in a hands-on, real-world sports management internship before graduating to prepare for their future careers.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Sport Management
In-State Tuition: $8,627
Out-of-State Tuition: $20,944
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: 36 percent
7. Central Methodist University
Fayette, Missouri
Points: 6
Established as Central College in 1854 and Central Methodist College from 1961 to 2004, Central Methodist University is a private university located in Fayette, Missouri. Affiliated with the United Methodist Church, CMU is accredited to award undergraduate and graduate degrees, including an affordable online Bachelor’s in Sports Management. Through this top-value online degree program, undergraduates become proficient in the administration, planning and operation of athletic events and enhance their skills while taking courses in first aid and community CPR, sports in society, the psychology of sports, marketing, human resource management and sports marketing and events. Students also have the opportunity to participate in hands-on learning during athletic events, projects and internships. Graduates of this cheapest online bachelors in sports management are prepared for careers in professional and collegiate athletics, sports operations and both recreation and parks.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Sports Management
In-State Tuition: $5,760
Out-of-State Tuition: $5,760
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: N/A
6. Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, Arizona
Points: 7
Program Website
Northern Arizona University, established in 1899, is a public research university that operates a main campus in Flagstaff. Students pursuing the low-cost online Bachelor of Science in Parks and Recreation Management at NAU can choose from three areas of emphasis: Outdoor Education and Leadership, Park Protection and Community, Commercial and Tourism. Within the 120-credit online degree program, students complete electives, nine units of major prefix courses, 18 units of a minor or emphasis and 54 units within the major. The school’s location is ideal for students seeking a cost-effective parks, recreation and leisure degree, with 12 units of the National Park System (NPS) nearby, including the Grand Canyon, as well as six national forests. Graduates of this college with a parks and recreation major find employment with nonprofit organizations, correctional institutions, federal land-management agencies, private resources, recreation departments and municipal parks.
Degree Options:
Parks and Recreation Management, Bachelor of Science
In-State Tuition: $11,564
Out-of-State Tuition: $25,828
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 52 percent
5. Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, Kentucky
Points: 7
Program Website
Eastern Kentucky University is a public institution of higher education and one of the most affordable universities for an online parks, recreation and leisure studies degree. EKU’s 120-hour online bachelor’s degree in sports management prepares students for careers in the challenging and complex sports industry. Available entirely online with no campus visits required, this cheap degree program allows students to develop the management and leadership skills needed to combine business insight and a love of sports to propel the industry forward. Core courses cover topics such as the psychology of coaching, management of sports organizations, finance, legal issues, policy and governance, sports science and sports information programs. A sports management internship is also required for graduation. Graduates of this top-value online bachelor’s are prepared to pursue master’s-level studies or take on key positions with sports associations and teams.
Degree Options:
Sport Management Bachelor’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $9,666
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,444
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 47 percent
4. University of Utah
Salt Lake City, Utah
Points: 7
Program Website
Located in Salt Lake City, the University of Utah is a public research institution of higher education and the state’s flagship university. At the U of U, students may pursue an affordable online Bachelor of Science in Parks, Recreation and Tourism with an emphasis on sustainable tourism and hospitality management. Online coursework covers topics in tourism economics, sustainability, event management and customer service as well as visitor management, destination marketing and tourism policy. Students also examine the ethical and cultural implications of tourism and both biodiversity and cultural heritage conservation. The University of Utah is also the only school in the state to offer an optional certificate in hospitality operations from the American Hotel and Lodging Association. Many students finish coursework in four semesters, completing the required internship during the summer.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Parks, Recreation and Tourism With an Emphasis in Sustainable Tourism & Hospitality Management
In-State Tuition: $9,222
Out-of-State Tuition: $29,215
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 70 percent
3. California State University-East Bay
Hayward, California
Points: 8
Program Website
Established as the State College for Alameda County in 1957, California State University-East Bay is a public university in Hayward, California and a member of the 23-school California State University System. The online Bachelor’s in Recreation Management at Cal State East Bay is comprised of core courses in youth development, marketing, decision-making and leadership, management and ethics as well as law, risk and regulation and sustainable facilities, parks and open spaces. An internship is required for graduation. Graduates of this cheap online bachelors in recreation management are prepared to work in the fields of youth development, special events, recreation therapy, outdoor recreation and management/leadership. A B.S. in Recreation Management with an option in recreation therapy is also available.
Degree Options:
B.S. in Recreation Management
In-State Tuition: $6,983
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,863
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 26:1
Graduation Rate: 48 percent
2. Florida International University
Miami, Florida
Points: 9
Program Website
Located in Miami, Florida International University is a public research university and one of 12 campuses that make up the State University System of Florida. One of the state’s primary graduate research institutions, FIU offers an online Bachelor of Science in Recreation and Sport Management that is designed to prepare graduates for jobs in direct service, managerial or supervisory roles in parks, sports and/or recreation management. Students may choose to gain competencies by completing one of four available tracks: Recreation and Sport Management, Parks Management, Pre-Recreational Therapy/Adaptive Recreation or a combined BS/MS in Recreational Therapy.
Degree Options:
BS in Recreation and Sport Management
In-State Tuition: $6,546
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,954
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 26:1
Graduation Rate: 58 percent
1. University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida
Points: 9
Program Website
Topping our list of the most affordable universities for a parks, recreation and leisure degree, the University of Florida is a public space-, sea- and land-grant research university located in Gainesville, Florida. Tracing its roots to 1853, UF is a senior member of the State University System of Florida. UF’s College of Health and Human Performance confers an inexpensive online Bachelor’s in Sport Management that equips students with the knowledge, skills and tools to apply the fundamental concepts of law, finance, marketing and management to sports organizations. With an impressive 90 percent graduation rate, UF produces students who are prepared for job functions such as player representation, fundraising, sponsorship sales, ticket operations, compliance, administration, marketing and event and facility management.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Sport Management
In-State Tuition: $6,381
Out-of-State Tuition: $28,659
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 90 percent
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Career Options for an Online Bachelor’s in Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies Degree?
If you have a keen interest in the outdoors as well as a desire to help ensure the available of future leisure, recreation and park service opportunities, an online Bachelor’s in Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies may be for you. While some career options will have you wearing brown, khaki and green as well as hiking through the woods and spending a great deal of time outdoors, other employment openings are indoors, including working at a desk and organizing various community programs for your city or town. Students who have earned an online Bachelor’s in Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies are prepared for jobs as:
- Park Rangers
- Recreation Programs Supervisors
- Athletic Coordinators
- Park Development Managers
- Seasonal Camp Instructors
- Resort Managers
- Research Specialists
- Cultural Arts Directors
- Research and Planning Supervisors
- Head Athletic Trainers
Other popular careers include amusement park manager, sports information director, coach and fitness center manager. The list goes on and on. However, many of these positions, regardless of title, involve skills in leading, organizing and planning as well as keeping communities and individuals health. A bachelor’s degree will set up graduates to perform these and other tasks required of this industry.
What is the Salary Potential for an Online Bachelor’s in Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies Degree?
Due to the broadness of the industry, it is difficult to pinpoint one specific salary for graduates with a degree in parks, recreation and leisure studies. Also, salary earnings will vary according to several factors: area in which one works, his or her specific employer, level of hands-on experience, level of education and the concentration or specialization pursued. To get a better picture of some of the average earnings for workers in this field, we consulted the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) who reported that recreation workers earned an average yearly salary of $25,060 per year, or $12.05 per hour, as of May 2018. The highest 10 percent earned more than $42,670, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $18,470. The top industries in which recreation workers were employed include:
- Residential care and nursing facilities: $27,320 per year
- Social assistance: $25,970
- Local government, excluding hospitals and education: $24,540
- Professional, civic, grantmaking, religious and similar organizations: $24,220
The BLS also reported salary data for several other occupations within the parks, recreation and leisure industry. For instance, conservation scientists and foresters earned $61,340 annually, while athletic trainers reported earnings of $47,510 per year. Lodging managers brought in $53,390, while urban and regional planners saw earnings of $73,050. As we can see, the salary ranges are broad depending on the specific area in which one chooses to work. As is typically the case with most college degrees, prospective candidates may typically be able to command a higher salary if they have earned a master’s degree and/or have extensive experience in the field.
What Will You Study in an Undergraduate Parks, Recreation and Leisure Degree Program?
Although every school is different, in most cases, an online bachelor’s degree in parks, recreation and leisure allows undergraduates to choose an area of concentration or specialization. However, before beginning coursework in the major, students are typically required to complete core recreation courses first. Some of these classes may examine topics such as planning activity programs, recreation administration, applications of technology and research, legal liability and leadership of activities. The purpose of the core curriculum is to expose students to the critical areas of recreation management, mainly because many undergraduates pursue positions in leadership after earning their degree. Depending on the school, students may also be required to complete a hands-on practicum experience or internship to gain real-world experience in the field. Some of the most common classes offered in a bachelor’s program include:
- Recreation Maintenance and Resources
- Commercial Recreation and Tourism
- Developmental Psychology
- Recreational Therapy Program Design
- Human Function and Structure
- Recreation Therapy Assessment
Since the field of parks, recreation and leisure studies is vast, students interest in this industry should be aware of other related majors. For instance, a school may offer a degree in business management, recreational leadership management, sports management or therapeutic recreation. Another might provide a degree in recreation and leisure studies with a concentration in leisure studies management. Although coursework and degree outlooks will vary, graduates who earn an online Bachelor’s in Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies focus on helping people enjoy healthier lives.
AS Staff
This concludes our ranking of the top 25 online bachelor’s in parks, recreation and leisure studies degrees.
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