M.S. in Computer Science
The Master of Science (M.S.) in Computer Science program at Western Washington Universi...
B.A. in Recreation Management and Leadership
Bellingham, Washington
INTAKE: Jan, Mar & Sep
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Arts in Recreation Management and Leadership at Western Washington University prepares students for dynamic careers in recreational leadership, community program development, and leisure services management. This program equips students with the skills to create, manage, and lead recreational programs that promote health, well-being, and community engagement, making it ideal for those passionate about enhancing quality of life through recreation.
COAPRT Accredited: The B.A. in Recreation Management and Leadership is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Parks, Recreation, Tourism, and Related Professions (COAPRT), ensuring the program meets high standards for education in this field. This accreditation signals to students and employers that the program adheres to the best practices in preparing students for successful careers in recreational services and leadership.
Curriculum: The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive foundation in recreation management, leadership, and program development. Core courses cover topics such as facility management, community recreation, outdoor leadership, event planning, and risk management. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, with students engaging in fieldwork and internships to gain practical experience. Elective courses allow students to specialize in areas like environmental recreation, youth programming, or therapeutic recreation.
Research Focus: Research in the B.A. in Recreation Management and Leadership program often centers on the impact of recreational activities on individual and community well-being. Faculty and students collaborate on studies related to sustainable recreation practices, therapeutic recreation outcomes, and community engagement strategies. This research experience enables students to apply data-driven insights to create meaningful and effective recreational programs.
Industry Engagement: The program strongly emphasizes industry engagement, offering students the opportunity to connect with professionals and organizations in the recreation field. Partnerships with local and regional parks, recreational facilities, and non-profits allow students to gain valuable insights and practical experience through internships, workshops, and guest lectures. This industry connection provides students with a solid network and practical skills essential for launching successful careers.
Global Perspective: With a commitment to fostering a global perspective, the program explores recreational practices from around the world, emphasizing diverse approaches to leisure, wellness, and community engagement. Courses cover global trends in recreation and sustainability, encouraging students to think critically about how cultural and environmental factors influence recreational needs and opportunities. This global outlook prepares graduates to develop inclusive and culturally relevant recreational programs.
Location
Bellingham, Washington
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 26613
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 62 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
Truecopy Credentials evaluation will be required
Western Washington University (WWU) is fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community, the university offers a range of scholarships specifically designed for international students. These scholarships aim to recognize academic merit, promote cultural diversity, and alleviate financial barriers, enabling international students to pursue their educational goals at WWU.
International Student Scholarships: WWU provides dedicated scholarship opportunities for international students, acknowledging their unique contributions to the university community. These scholarships may be merit-based, considering academic achievements and accomplishments, or need-based, taking into account the financial circumstances of the applicants.
Merit-Based Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships at WWU recognize outstanding academic achievements, leadership skills, and extracurricular involvement. Eligibility criteria may vary, and scholarships may be awarded based on factors such as GPA, standardized test scores, and letters of recommendation.
Need-Based Scholarships: For international students facing financial constraints, WWU offers need-based scholarships to help ease the burden of tuition and related expenses. These scholarships consider the demonstrated financial need of the applicant, and recipients may be required to submit financial documentation as part of the application process.
Diversity and Inclusion Scholarships: WWU values diversity and encourages applicants from underrepresented backgrounds to apply for diversity and inclusion scholarships. These scholarships aim to create a more inclusive learning environment and celebrate the varied perspectives that international students bring to the university community.
Graduates of the B.A. in Recreation Management and Leadership program at Western Washington University are equipped with the skills to pursue diverse career paths in recreational management and leadership.
Community Recreation Director: Graduates can lead community recreation centers, organizing programs and events that promote wellness and social engagement within communities.
Parks and Recreation Manager: This role involves managing park facilities and programs, ensuring safe, enjoyable recreational spaces, and coordinating activities that meet community needs.
Youth Program Coordinator: With skills in program planning and leadership, graduates can design and oversee activities for youth in community centers, camps, and non-profit organizations.
Outdoor Recreation Planner: This position focuses on creating sustainable outdoor recreational activities, often collaborating with environmental organizations or park services to promote conservation and outdoor engagement.
Event Planner for Recreation Organizations: Graduates can plan events such as sports tournaments, festivals, and community gatherings, bringing people together and enhancing local recreation offerings.
Recreational Therapist (with additional certification): Graduates interested in therapeutic recreation can work with individuals to improve physical and mental well-being through structured recreational activities.
Resort and Facility Manager: This role involves overseeing the operations of resorts, gyms, or recreational facilities, ensuring excellent customer service and managing recreational offerings.
Adventure Program Coordinator: Graduates with a passion for outdoor adventures can organize and lead programs in activities like hiking, rafting, and climbing for organizations focused on adventure and experiential learning.
Non-Profit Program Manager: Many graduates apply their skills in non-profit organizations, creating programs that provide accessible recreation and community engagement opportunities.
Corporate Wellness Coordinator: This position allows graduates to develop wellness programs within corporate environments, promoting employee health through recreational activities and fitness programs.
Recreation Consultant: Graduates can work independently as consultants, advising cities, resorts, and recreational organizations on how to optimize and expand their recreational services.
Camp Director: Overseeing all operations of seasonal or year-round camps, camp directors manage staff, organize activities, and ensure that camp experiences are safe, fun, and enriching.
