Recreation and Leisure Studies

The Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies prepares students to promote a broader and deeper understanding of the role of leisure and recreation in the lives of all people and to enhance the quality of experiences available to each person. The Department’s mission is Engagement, Participation, and Leadership.

 

  • Undergraduate admission to the Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies requires no special admission procedures. 
  • For any questions regarding the graduate program (MS in Recreation Administration), please contact Dr. Laurel Richmond (Laurel Richmond). The deadline for the application is June 1 and please visit  for your application.

Recreation manager leading outdoor activity

Professional positions held by graduates and annual median salaries:

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

Median annual wages: Rec Therapists

  • Recreation therapists: $89,660 CA, $57,120 US

  • National accreditation of the program has been awarded continuously since 1982. The Council on Accreditation of Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Related Professions (COAPRT) accredits recreation, park resources and leisure services curricula. Our department offers the only academic program accredited by COAPRT in Southern California. 
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