Recreation, Parks and Tourism

Edward Udd*, Chairperson
www.radford.edu/~recparks/

Undergraduate Program

The mission of the department is to assist in promoting the full potential for quality of life for the citizens of the region, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the nation. Thus, the faculty is committed to excellence in teaching, advising, scholarship, research and service. The Recreation, Parks, and Tourism degree is accredited by the National Parks and Recreation Council of Accreditation for Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Related Fields.

The department provides each student with opportunities, resources, and guidance to enhance the quality of life of individuals through effective leadership in tourism and special events, recreation therapy, and outdoor recreation. Toward this end, both the Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees are designed for the student who is seeking basic, pre-professional knowledge, understanding and experience toward a career in recreation, parks and tourism.

The undergraduate program and the recreation therapy concentration are accredited by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA); concentrations in tourism and special events and outdoor recreation are also available. Students who successfully complete courses, recommended electives, and a 560-hour internship in the recreation therapy concentration are qualified to take the national examination for certification through the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification. Also, students who obtain a major in recreation, parks and tourism are eligible to take the national examination for a Certified Park and Recreational Professional through the National Recreation and Park Association National Certification Board.

Academic Advising

All students are advised by the Academic Advising Center and are also assigned to a faculty advisor upon entry into the recreation, parks and tourism department. In addition, the Advising Center provides support and assistance to students and faculty within the department. Both faculty advisors and the Advising Center staff are committed to assisting students in: exploring educational and career options; clarifying university and departmental requirements; selecting appropriate courses; evaluating academic progress; and obtaining referral information for academic and student support services.

Honors Program

The Recreation, Parks and Tourism Department offers a departmental honors program. For a general description of the Honors Academy at Radford University, see here . For specific requirements of this department’s program, contact the department chairperson or the director of the Honors Academy.

Academic Programs

Recreation, Parks and Tourism, B.A.