Welcome to Recreation Studies and Exercise Science!

Welcome to the Department of Recreation Studies and Exercise Science's "new and developing" website! As part of the College of Professional Studies at Lake Superior State University, we are proud and excited to provide current information on our four year (baccalaureate) degrees in Athletic Training, Exercise Science, Parks and Recreation and Sport and Recreation Management. You will also find information on the Associate Degree for Health Fitness Specialist, a two year program, and minors in recreation Studies and Gerontology.

Each department major has a unique plan for professional preparation and provides students a variety of career choices world-wide upon completion.

All department majors focus on challenging students with current research and practices within their discipline and requiring practical application of skills learned throughout their four year program. Each major emphasizes the development of strong communication, leadership, critical thinking and problem solving skills.

Program Goals and Objectives:

The Sport and Recreation Management Graduate applies knowledge and understanding of leisure behavior to create an environment that facilitates leisure experiences. The Sport and Recreation Management professional manages facilities, parks, programs, services, and human resources in public, non-profit and commercial setting. The Sport and Recreation Management graduate displays leadership in all aspects of the profession.

Lake Superior State University graduates in the Sport and Recreation Management Program:

• Will be competent in written, verbal, and technological communication as evaluated through required papers, case studies, proposal presentations, administrative projects and critical thinking assignments.
• Will be prepared for entry level positions that require general administration, programming, and operations management knowledge and skills.  These tasks have been assessed and qualified as necessities by the national job analysis and an expert committee representing NRPA professionals.
• Will have created programming and administrative projects reflecting cumulative knowledge of planning processes through class work and practical application that become part of their undergraduate professional portfolio.
• Will have completed an undergraduate research component understanding the procedures for developing, implementing, and reporting and assessing data in respect to professional need.
• Will exhibit knowledge and skills applicable to public, private and commercial recreation/leisure settings through an integrated academic curriculum.
• Will possess a minimum of 700 hours career related practical experience in recreation/leisure through the completion of practicum, apprentice leadership, and internship requirements.
• Will possess critical thinking and decision making skills required of sport and recreation management professionals.
• Will have tested knowledge of and practical application in planning, budgeting, financing, supervision, policy formulation, customer service, risk management, marketing, legal concepts, facility management, event management and human resources.
• Will have the opportunity to complete one or more minors that complement their individual career focus (marketing, gerontology)
• Will be prepared upon graduation to sit for the NRPA national certification exam for Certified Park and Recreation Professionals.