Erin Thompson
EKU Recreation and Park Administration GraduateI 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.
Bachelor of Science in Recreation & Park Administration
Department of Parks, Recreation, Exercise & Sport Science
College of Health Sciences
Bachelor of Science in Recreation & Park Administration
Department of Parks, Recreation, Exercise & Sport Science
College of Health Sciences
On-Campus
Program
120 Credit Hours
to Graduate
Full-Time, In-State Tuition
$5,010 Per Semester
Free Books
for All Students
Enjoy Limitless Career Possibilities in a Field You Love
Prepare for a variety of rewarding careers in a dynamic field with Eastern Kentucky University’s recreation and park administration bachelor’s degree. From working with the military morale, welfare, and recreation division to being an interpretive guide for the National Park Service, designing recreation programming for children with disabilities or planning events for a Hawaiian resort, our program will prepare you to excel in the career of your dreams.
Learn More
Career Outlook
Students in recreation and park administration are preparing to enter careers in a range of areas that span from local, state, and federal agencies such as the National Park Service and the U.S. Forest Service, to tourism and resort recreation. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in recreation fields is projected to grow 5 percent from now until 2032.
– U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Why EKU?
Curriculum & Admission
Eastern Kentucky University provides a balanced degree program that integrates recreation and park administration principles with hands-on learning opportunities. EKU’s curriculum blends academic and professional preparation through course topics such as outdoor adventure activities, leisure diversity and culture, equine assisted therapy, programming special events, and natural resource tourism. All program options prepare students to pursue a variety of rewarding career possibilities or to excel in graduate school.
Enrolling & Advising Information
EKU’s College of Health Sciences is committed to delivering high-quality enrollment and academic advising for our students. We strive to create an atmosphere of mutual trust and meaningful engagement to help students reach their academic goals and have a rewarding educational experience.
Interested in enrolling? Reach out to our college enrollment counselor today.
Additional Contact Info
Admissions: 859-622-2106
Academic Testing: 859-622-1281
Big E Central (Financial Aid & Student Account Services): 859-622-2361
Military & Veterans Affairs Office: 859-622-2345
Student Stories & Features
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Tue
08
Spring 2025 Chellgren Success Workshop Series: Thriving, Not Just Surviving
April 7, 2025 at 5:00 pm – April 9, 2025 at 6:00 pm
Tue
08
Honors Thesis Conference
April 8, 2025 – April 15, 2025
Tue
08
Spring 2025 Chellgren Success Workshop Series: Thriving, Not Just Surviving
April 8, 2025 at 6:00 pm – April 9, 2025 at 7:00 pm
Wed
09
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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 […]
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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