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Department of Parks, Recreation, Exercise & Sport Science

College of Health Sciences

Department of Parks, Recreation, Exercise & Sport Science

College of Health Sciences

Fulfill Your Passion and Make a Difference

Helping others manage their mental, emotional, and physical health and wellness is a rapidly growing field. Programs in the department of parks, recreation, exercise, and sport science all work to support improved function for individuals in all areas of their lives, indoors and outdoors and have a direct impact on not only improving quality of life, but the communities we live in. Additionally, recreation and tourism account for one of the world’s largest industries leading to a variety of exciting career opportunities across the globe.

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Why Study Parks, Recreation, Exercise & Sport Science?

With the country’s increased focus on health, wellness and work-life balance, programs in the department of parks, recreation, exercise and sport science lead to in-demand careers that not only help others but fulfill your passions as well. Make a difference in your community doing a job you love.

The EKU Recreation and Park Administration Program is proud to be accredited by the Council on Accreditation for Parks, Recreation, Tourism and related Professions (COAPRT) since 1980 (Standard 3.07). COAPRT accredits baccalaureate programs in parks, recreation, tourism, sport management, event management, therapeutic recreation, and leisure studies offered at regionally accredited institutions within the United States and its territories, and at nationally accredited institutions in Canada and Mexico.

Important Information Regarding Degree Mills
Please watch this important video regarding degree and accreditation mills. According to CHEA, “Degree mills and accreditation mills mislead and harm. In the United States, degrees and certificates from mills may not be acknowledged by other institutions when students seek to transfer or go to graduate school. Employers may not acknowledge degrees and certificates from degree mills when providing tuition assistance for continuing education. “Accreditation” from an accreditation mill can mislead students and the public about the quality of an institution. In the presence of degree mills and accreditation mills, students may spend a good deal of money and receive neither an education nor a useable credential.” Read more on CHEA’s website.

Student Stories & Features


Lauren Close

EKU Exercise and Sport Science Graduate
Earning my master’s from EKU provided me with the expertise to enter my desired career field. Not only did I gain the skills and experience to stand out to employers, I formed lasting relationships that remain an important part of my professional journey. The EKU faculty were a huge part of my success as a student and their steadfast support has continued into my professional career.

Erin Thompson

EKU Recreation and Park Administration Graduate
I love how much service-learning experiences we have in RPA and that classes are not just lecture. I am building an amazing resume as a result.

Patrick Rood

EKU Recreation and Park Administration Graduate
I love RPA because it is family. If someone is struggling or feeling down, there is always someone to pick you up. You will always find a friendly face and a warm smile when you go into the department. My true and most happy self is all thanks to the department.

Recreation & Park Administration

Recreation and parks administration students and faculty are engaged in classroom instruction, service-learning projects, grant writing, and research. The faculty is committed and strongly believes in providing a combination of theory and experience to prepare and motivate students for successful employment in the field.

Exercise and Sport Science

Prepare to excel as a healthcare professional (athletic trainer, recreational therapist, physical therapist), a fitness professional, or someone who impacts the health and wellness through sport or recreation. Our degree programs prepare students with cutting edge theory combined with practical learning experiences taught by outstanding faculty, emphasizing current clinical skills and practice trends.


Upcoming Events

Halls Open

Residence Halls Open for the Spring 2025 semester. Front desks begin normal operating hours.

Check-In Deadline

Check-in deadline for all returning and new students for spring 2025. For late return/check-in, contact our office at 859-622-1515.

News & Updates

Roping in Rescues, Serving Eastern Kentucky

Hikers in Red River Gorge might not realize that one wrong step could plunge them off a 200-foot cliff hidden by the undergrowth. When accidents like that happen, John May, […]

Contact Information

Department of Parks, Recreation,
Exercise & Sport Science

521 Lancaster Avenue
Combs 208 & 215A
Richmond, KY 40475

Recreation & Park Administration
859-622-1833

Exercise & Sport Science
859-622-8149