Students understand natural resource-based recreation and tourism that integrates sustainability and effectively links theory with practice while engaging the community. All senior-level courses have a hands-on project component, where they work with professionals in the field, applying classroom knowledge, critical thinking and effort to provide a lasting benefit to professional partners and society.

A bachelor’s degree program in Sustainable Parks, Recreation and Tourism is designed to prepare graduates for professional positions related to the management and enjoyment of the outdoors. Such positions include management of public parks, forests and protected areas, non-profit lands, and facilities such as camps and commercial enterprises that provide goods and services to outdoor enthusiasts.

Students in the SPRT major will acquire an understanding of natural resource-based recreation and tourism that integrates sustainability and effectively links theory with practice while engaging the community. Students become adept at the management of parks, resorts, marinas, trails, campgrounds, nature centers, outfitting businesses, camps and many other outdoor venues. All senior-level courses have a hands-on project component, in which students work directly with professionals in the field, applying classroom knowledge, critical thinking and effort to provide a lasting benefit to professional partners and society.

The capstone professional internship requirement gives students a great opportunity to apply their education and get real-world experience as a bridge to their professional careers. More than 90 percent of the internships are paid, and they can be done in Michigan or beyond. Each is focused on the student’s professional interests. The Department of Community Sustainability has a coordinator who works with students throughout their internships to ensure that they make the most of this field experience.

Career opportunities
  • National Park Service
  • U.S. Forest Service
  • Resort manager
  • State departments of natural resources
  • Local parks
  • Camp director
  • Convention and visitors bureaus
  • Amusement parks
  • Cruise ships
  • Marina management