Recreation, BA

Department of Physical Ed, Health & Recreation, College of Humanities and Social Sciences

66 credits

Introduction

In response to the leisure needs of society, career opportunities in recreation and leisure services are numerous and diverse. The recreation curriculum prepares students to plan, develop and administer programs and resources in a variety of settings. The curriculum adapts the quarter system of scheduling classes to a sequential series of four phases. Students enter Phase I of the program during spring quarter of their sophomore year, although juniors and seniors are welcome to apply. They continue through the curriculum as a group, as indicated in the following schedule:

The phase system allows maximum flexibility in scheduling workshops, field experiences, conferences and seminars both on and off campus. By making use of other departments at Western, statewide recreation resources, and recreation professionals, a wide range of educational experiences is available to the student.

The Recreation Program emphasizes preparation in the broad areas of outdoor recreation, community recreation, therapeutic recreation, and tourism. Community and outdoor recreation graduates find employment in federal and state recreation and park agencies, county and community recreation departments, non-profit agencies and commercial recreation settings. Therapeutic recreation graduates find employment in hospitals, senior centers, nursing homes, mental health agencies, community recreation departments, and federal, state and private agencies serving persons with special needs. Graduates prepared in tourism plan and lead trips worldwide or work in destination planning.

The Recreation Program is nationally accredited by the Council on Accreditation. Students should inquire directly to the Recreation Program office in Old Carver 6 for current information on admission procedures.

Admission and Declaration Process

The deadline for completing the application process is the first Friday in November. The program is popular and the number of majors admitted is limited, so students are encouraged to apply by the deadline. Applications received after the deadline will be considered if space is available. Students must have completed 45 quarter unit credits, including approved transfer credits, before starting Phase I. The deadline also applies to transfer students. Transfer students are urged to contact the Recreation Program for guidance and further information. A minor in Recreation is not offered presently.

Grade Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.