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Department of Recreation Administration

recreation scenes -people sitting on the grass in a park, a picture of Disneyland, children playing with a parachute on the grass


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.

 

Nancy Nisbett

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.

 


                 

Carol Scott - CHHS Top Dog 2024 - Recreation Administration

CHHS Top Dog 2024 - Recreation Administration Alumni
Carol E Scott

Click here for more information.


Photo of Becky Whited

2024 Health and Human Services Hero, Becky Whited
Recreation Administration Alumni


Click here for more information.

CCTRS, February 8, 2025, registration materials to be emailed in December 2024. Questions: nancyni@csufresno.edu.

Fall 2024 Finals Schedule

COAPRT

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

Spring 2025 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.)

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