Introduction
A degree in Recreation Management and Leadership (RML) is more than just a line on a diploma — it’s a transformative experience. Our cohort-based program fosters hands-on learning and meaningful, community-centered work that prepares students to make a real impact in their careers. RML graduates don’t just enter the workforce; they create spaces and programs that inspire connection with nature, emphasize fun and personal growth, and cultivate belonging and inclusion.
Why Consider a Recreation Management and Leadership Major?
A Unique, Cohort-Based Learning Experience
The structure of the RML program sets it apart. Students progress together through the program as a cohort, following a carefully sequenced and scaffolded curriculum. Coursework in inclusive leadership, management, human relations, program planning, budgeting, and evaluation provides practical skills applicable to any career, while specialized classes in outdoor recreation, community recreation, sustainable tourism, and therapeutic recreation open doors to diverse and rewarding professional paths.
Beyond the classroom, the RML experience is enriched by a strong sense of community and built-in opportunities for real-world engagement. Students know that their experiences and ideas matter. Faculty form close connections with students, offering personalized mentorship and advising. The program incorporates intentional community-building opportunities, such as quarterly retreats.
Hands-On Learning That Makes an Impact
The RML program emphasizes applied learning through partnerships with local organizations and nonprofits. Students gain hands-on experience by:
- Planning and leading a day camp for adults with disabilities
- Attending professional conferences organized by the Washington Parks and Recreation Association and the Washington State Therapeutic Recreation Association
- Engaging in internships that provide valuable industry experience
- An overnight Leave No Trace certification training
- Community-based sustainable tourism with the Makah First Nation in Neah Bay
And it works! For over 50 years, the RML cohort model has produced graduates who form a vibrant, global professional network, contributing daily to the health and well-being of individuals and their communities. Graduates of Recreation Management and Leadership are employed throughout the region, nation, and world in a variety of settings, including public recreation departments, outdoor recreation programs, hospitals, and tourism agencies. Community and outdoor recreation graduates find employment in federal and state recreation and park agencies, county and community recreation departments, non-profit agencies, camp and adventure programs, wilderness therapy, and commercial recreation settings. Therapeutic recreation graduates find employment in hospitals; skilled nursing facilities; mental health agencies; adaptive outdoor recreation programs, community recreation departments; and federal, state, and private agencies serving persons with disabilities or other adapted recreation needs. Graduates prepared in sustainable tourism find employment with tour companies, resorts, ecolodges, and convention and visitor bureaus.
Recreation Management and Leadership and its Therapeutic Recreation Concentration are nationally accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Related Professions (COAPRT).
Students should contact Jen Leita, HHD Advising Coordinator, for current information on admission procedures.
Student Resources
Website: Recreation Management and Leadership
Contact information:
- General Information and Advising: Jen Leita, Carver 201A, 360-650-4377, Jen.Leita@wwu.edu
- Community Recreation/Outdoor Recreation: Randy Burtz, Associate Professor, Carver 209D, 360-650-7572, Randall.Burtz@wwu.edu
- Therapeutic Recreation/Recreation Management and Leadership Coordinator: Melissa D’Eloia, Associate Professor, Carver 209F, 360-650-3962, Melissa.Deloia@wwu.edu
- Sustainable Tourism & Recreation Management: Jasmine Goodnow, Professor, Carver 209E, 360-650-2393, Jasmine.Goodnow@wwu.edu
- Therapeutic Recreation: Kristen Chmielewski, Associate Professor, Carver 209C, 360-650-4118, chmielk@wwu.edu
Department advising: Visit the Recreation Management and Leadership website for more information.
Degree Works: Current students should also log on to Degree Works to check student-specific program progress.
Career Services Center: Connect major to a career
Sample Careers: Recreational Therapist, Outdoor Adventure Leader, Youth Programs Coordinator, Eco-tourism Operator, Park Ranger, Parks and Recreation Agencies, Campus Recreation, Camp Director, Inclusion Specialist
How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):
First priority is given to students who have submitted applications by the first Thursday in November during fall quarter. After this date, consideration is given to applicants on a case-by-case basis. However, the major is popular and the number of students admitted is limited, so students are encouraged to apply by the priority deadline. Students must have completed 45 quarter unit credits, including approved transfer credits, before starting Phase I. The deadline also applies to transfer students. Students interested in the major should contact Jen Leita, HHD Advising Coordinator, if they have any questions about available space and the application process.
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.
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