Recreation Management and Recreation Management/Outdoor
(132–133 semester hours) Requirements are subject to change.
Springfield College has been preparing recreation and leisure professionals for
almost fifty years, recognizing the contribution which recreation experiences
make to the quality of life. Leadership, management, and program skills are the
focus of the curriculum, which is accredited by the National Recreation and Parks
Association. Recreation management majors must select a track in outdoor recreation
or general recreation management.
Recreation management is an accredited professional program that prepares students
for leadership positions in recreation programming, program design, personnel
management, and basic research. Graduates of this program are employed professionally
throughout the world in outdoor recreation centers, the travel business, the National
Park Service, resorts, the adventure trip industry, armed forces recreation programs,
campus recreation, corporate recreation services, municipal recreation, and YMCAs.
The program aims to impart an understanding of the following:
- Recreation management and leadership practices in the context of human-helping
professions.
- Experiential learning concepts that enhance skills in management, programming,
and group dynamics.
- Current management applications, such as total quality management, team and project
approaches, strategic planning, entrepreneurial strategies, the development of
learning organizations, and active listening.
Springfield College also manages an outdoor education center, located on the
East Campus. Students learn in an urban wilderness setting, testing formulas for
spiritual, physical, and intellectual growth. Students may also elect to attend
training sessions promoted by the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) and
Outward Bound. Limited college credit for NOLS, study abroad, or outdoor expeditions
may be arranged to supplement the student’s academic program and professional
development.
For more information about the recreation management major, contact Dr. Matthew
J. Pantera, chairperson of the Sport Management and Recreation Department, at
(413) 748-3693 or the Admissions Office at (800) 343-1257.