Department of Recreation Administration
Recreation Administration at Fresno State
Recreation Administration (RA) is a Health and Human Services degree program that
contributes to the health and well-being of individuals and enhances the quality of
community life. Our courses encourage students to learn and participate in hands-on
activities to help all people live healthy, enjoyable, active, and meaningful lifestyles.
Recreation Administration majors are active in the classroom and the community, applying
theoretical principles to real-world problems and developing the skills and knowledge
needed to make a positive impact.
Real-World Experience in Recreation Administration
Our Recreation Administration program is built on a foundation of hands-on learning, community engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Students gain practical experience in designing, managing, and evaluating recreational programs and services that cater to diverse populations, including children, youth, adults, and seniors. Our graduates are prepared to make a positive impact in various settings, such as:
- Outdoor recreation and parks
- Recreational therapy programs for individuals with disabilities
- Sports and entertainment facilities
- Travel and tourism industries
- Senior and youth-serving organizations
Developing Leaders in Recreation Administration
Our program emphasizes the importance of social behavior, environmental sciences, and community development. Students learn to:
- Analyze the social and environmental factors that influence recreational experiences
- Design and implement effective recreational programs and services
- Manage and evaluate recreational facilities and operations
- Develop leadership and communication skills to inspire and motivate others
Choose Your Path with Our Degree Emphasis Areas
We offer a range of degree emphasis areas to help you specialize in your area of interest:
Community Recreation, Youth Development, and Senior Services: Focus on designing and delivering recreational programs and services that cater
to diverse populations, including children, youth, and seniors.
Outdoor Recreation and Natural Resource Management: Develop expertise in managing and conserving natural resources, while also designing
and delivering outdoor recreational programs and services.
Recreation Therapy: Learn to use recreational activities as a therapeutic tool to promote physical,
emotional, and social well-being for individuals with disabilities.
Special Events and Tourism: Develop skills in planning, managing, and evaluating special events and tourism
initiatives that promote economic development and community engagement.
Sports and Entertainment Facility Management: Gain experience in managing and evaluating public assembly venues, including stadiums,
arenas, and convention centers, to ensure they meet the needs of event promoters,
participants, and spectators.
Join a Community of Recreation Professionals
At Fresno State, we foster a community of recreation professionals who are passionate about creating positive change in their communities. Our faculty and alumni network are dedicated to advancing the field of recreation administration and providing students with opportunities for growth, mentorship, and professional development.
Pursue a Rewarding Career in Recreation Administration
By earning a degree in Recreation Administration from Fresno State, you'll be well-prepared to pursue a rewarding career in a field that is both personally fulfilling and professionally challenging. Our graduates go on to work in a variety of settings, from the VA, to local parks and recreation departments to national parks and recreation organizations, and to stadiums, arenas and other public assembly venues.
Join us at Fresno State and discover the power of Recreation Administration.
Dr. Nancy Nisbett, professor, Department of Recreation Administration, was elected president of the American Therapeutic Recreation Association, with her three-year term beginning in October.
The Recreation Administration program at CSU Fresno has been continuously accredited by the Council on Accreditation for Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Related Professions (COAPRT) since 1984. COAPRT recognizes academic programs in colleges and universities that prepare new professionals to enter the parks, recreation, tourism and related professions. COAPRT Accreditation is a status granted to an academic program that meets or exceeds stated criteria of educational quality. In the United States, accreditation of professional preparation curricula is conferred by non-governmental bodies, which are often closely associated with professional associations in the field. COAPRT accredits baccalaureate degree programs in this profession. COAPRT is accredited by the Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
Contact Us
Michael Mahoney
Chair and Professor
mmahoney@csufresno.edu
Recreation Admistration Department
(general email)
rasa@csufresno.edu
Office Location:
Professional Human Services, Room 121
Phone:
559.278.2838
Fall 2024 Registration Calendar
Semester Hours:
Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
(closed 12 - 1 p.m.)
Summer Hours:
Monday - Friday, 7 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
(closed 12 - 12:30 p.m.)