Welcome to the Department of Parks, Recreation,
Exercise, and Sport Science (PRESS)
The Department of Exercise and Sport Science (ESS) has been merged with the Department of Recreation and Park Administration (RPA) to form the Department of Parks, Recreation, Exercise, and Sport Science (PRESS) within the College of Health Sciences at EKU. This merger is opening many new opportunities for all of our majors, increasing inter-professional collaborations to enhance student learning and experiences, and increased future employability.
Choose Your Major
Recreation and Park Administration
The Department offers a nationally accredited B.S. degree and a M.S. degree in Recreation and Park 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
Whether you want to be in a healthcare professional (athletic trainer, recreational therapist, physical therapist), a fitness professional, or someone who impacts the health and wellness through sport or recreation, You Can Get There From Here! 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
Inside Look
Understanding How the Pandemic Changed the Job Market - Featuring Associate Professor Dr. Brian Clark
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Recreation Specialists? Parks and Natural areas have seen a huge increase in visitor usage during the pandemic. Read more…
PRESS Graduate Students Dip Their Toes Into Service
On Saturday, March 25th, Eastern Kentucky University PRESS graduate students joined with the Special Olympics to help host a swim meet for local athletes at Asbury University. Read more…
EKU MS in AT Student Awarded Bobby Gunn Student Leadership Award
EKU’s MS in AT student, Sara Estes, was recently announced as the recipient of the NATA District Nine Bobby Gunn Student Leadership Award. Congratulations Sara! Read more…