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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


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.


Upcoming Events

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Registration Opens – Designated Populations

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Feel Better Fast! Weekly Drop-in Workshops to Improve Mood

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Registration Opens – Post-Baccalaureate & Remaining Seniors

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Feel Better Fast! Weekly Drop-in Workshops to Improve Mood

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News & Updates

EKU’s Exercise and Sport Science Program Shapes Strong Future Professionals

In one of Eastern Kentucky University’s (EKU) Exercise and Sport Science labs, junior Megan Fuson learns through quality instruction and instructional aids such as anatomical and skeletal models. She also practices strength and flexibility testing methods using adjustable exercise chairs and high-tech equipment. EKU’s Exercise and Sport Science (ESS) program aims to meet a rising […]

Students Take Their Research to Harvard, Representing EKU at the National Level

In January, six Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) students traveled to Harvard University and presented their research at the National Collegiate Research Conference (NCRC). This marked the second time students from EKU attended the conference, following recommendations from faculty mentors. “Our students being accepted to showcase their research at the NCRC—at Harvard—shows the massive potential of […]

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, ’92, and his Wolfe County Search and Rescue Team quickly respond to assist injured hikers, stranded climbers and people trapped by high water who may […]

Contact Information

Department of Parks, Recreation,
Exercise & Sport Science

Combs Building
Room 208 & 215A
213 Park Drive
Richmond, KY 40475

Recreation & Park Administration
859-622-1833

Exercise & Sport Science
859-622-8149