undergraduate
Parks, recreation and leisure studies
Best schools with parks, recreation and leisure studies
What is a parks, recreation and leisure studies major?
Recreation and fitness programs focus on the principles and practices of managing parks and other recreational and fitness facilities, and the study of human fitness. Subtopics include parks and recreation, health and physical fitness education, as well as sport and fitness management, among others.
of students said great professors were a highlight of this major.
of students found this major to be difficult.
of students said they were motivated to select this major because it fit their passion & interest.
of students and alumni plan on being or are currently employed in an occupation related to this major.
How much do parks, recreation and leisure studies majors make?
median average salary
$55,000/yr
The national average salary for parks, recreation and leisure studies graduates in the United States is $55,000 per year. Those in the top 10 percent make over $120,000 a year, while the bottom 10 percent make under $22,000 a year. While salary ranges can vary by role, industry, and location, parks, recreation and leisure studies graduates typically make between $36,000 and $83,000 per year.
How popular is parks, recreation and leisure studies as a major?
Each year, around 6,490 students obtain a bachelor’s degree and around 620 students obtain an associate degree in parks, recreation and leisure studies. In 2021, 5,680 students received a bachelor's degree and 423 students received an associate degree. This is 8% fewer parks, recreation and leisure studies majors than there were in 2020. Parks, recreation and leisure studies is one of the most popular majors within sports management and leisure studies.
Advice from parks, recreation and leisure studies majors
Share your experienceI would just say that within this field you have to find your area of prowess and make the most out of whatever your career choice is that you decide to move forward with after you graduate.
Make sure it’s what you want and is related to your personal interests
It is fun to learn about this major and be hands on and participate
Get to know everyone apart of your study program and the sister programs. You’re all working together and will most likely be working with people in their department in your future career. Make friends and work together because you all have an end goal to help change people’s lives through recreation. Recreation is one of people’s biggest time consumers and you could have a large impact on it.
As a recreational therapy major I have the pleasure in meeting so many patients and clients with various disabilities. I am responsible for bringing back the joy to those who feel limited. I love my job cause you can be as creative and adaptable as you want as long as you go by their needs and they meet their goal!
