Program Overview

The Recreation, Event and Sport Management program prepares leaders to manage, market, finance, operate and evaluate recreation, event and sport organizations, activities, resources and venues. A Bachelor of Science degree in RESM equips students to secure roles offering competitive starting salaries and opportunities for career progression.

Why Earn a Recreation Event and Sport Management Degree?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for entertainment and recreation managers is anticipated to increase by 8 percent between 2022 and 2032, surpassing the average growth rate for all occupations. The recreation, event and sport industry addresses the creative, cultural and recreational desires of American consumers and international visitors alike, providing a wide range of services and experiences. It stands as one of the world's largest industries, whether gauged by expenditures, audience reach, time invested, or resources utilized. Graduates can anticipate numerous career prospects across a spectrum of fields within this dynamic industry.

Students with a Bachelor of Science degree in Recreation, Event and Sport Management are prepared to enter the recreation, event and sport services industry. Students will gain proficiency in organizing, conceptualizing, executing and assessing a wide range of recreational, event or sports initiatives, while also refining their professionalism to include communication, collaboration, critical thinking, flexibility, time management, leadership and emotional awareness. Some of the coursework includes:

• Leadership and organizational management of both for-profit and nonprofit recreation, event, and sport organizations
• Inclusivity and diversity within the recreation, event, and sport organizations
• Planning, management, and operation of recreation and sport facilities
• Marketing and financial management of recreation, event, and sport organizations
• Recreation programs, special events, and national and international sport events planning, execution, and management
• Legal aspects and risk management of recreation, event and sport organizations

Our curriculum empowers students to translate theoretical understanding into practical application, paving the way for a stimulating and fulfilling professional journey. We offer flexible learning pathways, including online, hybrid and traditional classroom formats, ensuring accessibility to suit students’ individual needs and preferences.

Our faculty members bring experience and expertise to the classroom in:

• Community recreation programming
• Diverse populations and older adults
• Human and financial management of recreation and sport services
• Management of both for-profit and nonprofit recreation and sport organizations
• Regional, national, international, recreation, sport and special events management
• Recreation and sport facility operations and management

They've also been honored by the National Recreation and Park Association, Society of Health and Physical Educators, National Therapeutic Recreation Society, and Texas Recreation and Park Society.