Recreation Management

A degree in Recreation Management prepares you for a dynamic career where you can shape unforgettable experiences in parks, outdoor recreation areas, and community spaces. As a recreation manager, you'll have the opportunity to oversee exciting programs ranging from outdoor adventure expeditions and eco-tourism initiatives to community festivals and youth sports leagues. Whether you're organizing nature hikes, managing large-scale recreational events, or creating innovative programs that promote wellness and environmental stewardship, this field offers endless opportunities to make a meaningful impact while working in some of the most inspiring settings.

Professional positions held by graduates: 

  • National, state and municipal parks and recreation coordinators, managers, supervisors, directors 
  • City managers
  • Community services directors
  • Park naturalists and park rangers
  • Senior center directors in hospitals, clinics and rehabilitation programs
  • University recreation center and intramural directors 
  • Athletic sorts program managers
  • Facility managers
  • Student services managers
  • Outdoor adventure and day camp directors
  • Recreation facility or club managers
  • Travel and tourism agents or guides
  • Sporting goods sales representatives
  • Amusement park, hotel or resort managers
  • Military recreation and employee services specialists
  • Social director and event managers
  •  Nonprofit and volunteer services managers

City parks and recreation departments

National, state, and regional parks

Outdoor adventure companies and eco-tourism agencies

Nature preserves, wildlife refuges, and conservation areas

Event Planning, Destination Marketing, and Convention Agencies

Trails and outdoor recreation areas (hiking, biking, and water sports)

Historical and cultural sites with tourism programs

Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for Recreation Workers are expected to grow faster than average (5%) for the next ten years.

Median annual wage

Median annual wages ()

  • Park and Recreation Agency Director: $123,000
  • Planning Director: $106,500
  • Director of Finance: $100,245
  • Recreation Director: $90,000
  • Park Operations Director: $85,000
  • Park Operations: $65,952
  • Facilites Manager: $70,000
  • Athletics Supervisor: $60,347
  • Aquatics Supervisor: $64,500
  • Recreation Programs Coordinator: $58,000
  • Marketing and Communications Director: $70,000
  • Fitness Center Manager: $60,181
  • Administrative Assistant: $47,840

Median annual wages ()

  • Recreation supervisors: $53,710 CA
  • Recreation coordinator: $60,000 – 95,000 CA
  • Recreation director: $175,000 – 211,000 CA
    • Wages vary with job location and level of experience

Service orientation

Recreation managers want to share their passion for recreation and leisure activities with other people. 

Problem-solving skills

Recreation managers should be able to design activities for people of different ages and abilities. They must be able to adapt activities to the individual needs of participants. 

Communication skills

 Recreation managers need to give clear instructions when directing activities. 

Leadership skills

Recreation managers should be able to lead both small and large groups. They often lead activities for people with different skill levels.

Physical stamina

Recreation managers are often on their feet and should be able to demonstrate activities.