Recreation Management

Department of Recreation Management
Chairs
Department Information
W453 TNRB
801-422-3163
rmylsec@byu.edu
Website
Advisement Center
460 TNRB
801-422-4285
msm_advisement@byu.edu
Website
Programs

Admission to Degree Program

The degree program in the Department of Recreation Management is limited. Please see the Marriott School of Management Advisement Center for specific details.

The Discipline

Students in the Department of Recreation Management may complete accredited emphases in Experience Industry Management (EIM) or Therapeutic Recreation (TR). The two emphases share a commitment to providing recreation opportunities, programs, and experiences focused on strengthening individuals, families, and communities. Therapeutic recreation and experience industry management, however, represent diverse approaches and opportunities for students. A minor in nonprofit management is also available.

Courses common to the two emphases prepare students in the areas of leadership and management skills, accounting and finance, marketing, human resources, and current societal issues and trends related to recreation choices and behaviors. The interdisciplinary nature of the profession allows students the opportunity to complete coursework beyond the Recreation Management Department. Students in both emphases take Marriott School courses and Therapeutic Recreation coursework also includes classes in the behavioral and life sciences.

Experience Industry Management

The focus of the Experience Industry Management emphasis is on preparing students for the recreation, venue, and experience management professions in private, public, and nonprofit venues. The EIM curriculum is designed with the recognition that providing and managing recreation experiences and venues have emerged as an important factor of economic activity for communities, cities, states, and countries.

Therapeutic Recreation

Therapeutic Recreation students learn how to use recreation as a treatment modality to help people with illnesses and disabilities improve functional behavior, develop skills and abilities related to leisure and well-being, and improve quality of life. Graduates are eligible for state licensure and national certification, and work in a variety of healthcare and community-based settings. Therapists help individuals reduce depression, stress, and anxiety; overcome addictions and other emotional and behavioral problems, recover basic motor functioning and reasoning abilities, and socialize effectively so they can enjoy greater independence and reduce or eliminate the effects of their illness or disability. They accomplish this through interventions using arts and crafts, outdoor recreation, sports, games, dance, drama, music, or community outings. Therapists also help integrate people with disabilities into society by teaching them how to use community resources and recreational activities.

Career Opportunities

See specific career information under Experience Industry Management and Therapeutic Recreation options.

    Graduation Requirements

    To receive a BYU bachelor's degree a student must complete, in addition to all requirements for a specific major, the following university requirements:

    • The University Core, consisting of requirements in general and religious education. (For a complete listing of courses that meet university core requirements, see here.)
    • At least 30 credit hours must be earned in residence on the BYU campus in Provo as an admitted day student
    • A minimum of 120 credit hours
    • A cumulative GPA of at least 2.0
    • Be in good standing with the Honor Code Office

    Students should see their college advisement center for help or information concerning the undergraduate programs.

    Graduate Programs Available

    This department also offers graduate degree programs. For more information, see Graduate Studies.