Lead Programs. Build Communities. Shape the Future of Recreation Management.
 
Unlock your potential with our Master of Science in Recreation and Leisure Studies with a concentration in Recreation Administration—a leadership-focused graduate program designed for individuals passionate about managing recreation services, enhancing community well-being, and advancing inclusive leisure opportunities. This program equips you with the strategic, organizational, and interpersonal skills needed to lead recreation programs in public, nonprofit, and private sectors.
Specialize in Recreation Administration and become a leader in designing, managing, and evaluating recreational services that enrich lives. With a strong foundation in program planning, fiscal management, and community engagement, you’ll be prepared to direct impactful leisure services that promote health, inclusion, and quality of life.

Why Choose the Recreation Administration Concentration?

Career Prospects
 
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of recreation workers is projected to grow 5% from 2023 to 2033, about as fast as the average for all occupations [1]. With over 63,000 openings projected annually, there is steady demand for professionals who can lead and innovate in parks, community centers, and recreation-focused organizations.

Competitive Salaries
 
Recreation administrators often move into supervisory or managerial roles, where salaries exceed the median annual wage of $35,380 for recreation workers [1]. Those in director-level positions within municipal parks, nonprofit agencies, or campus recreation can earn significantly more, especially with a graduate degree.

Leadership-Focused Curriculum
 
This program emphasizes administrative competencies such as budgeting, personnel management, strategic planning, and policy development. You’ll gain the tools to lead recreation departments, manage facilities, and advocate for inclusive leisure services.

Applied Learning and Community Impact
 
Through internships, service-learning, and capstone projects, you’ll work directly with community organizations to design and evaluate programs—building a professional portfolio that demonstrates your leadership and impact.

Versatile Career Preparation
 
Whether your goal is to manage a city’s parks and recreation department, lead a nonprofit youth program, or direct campus recreation services, this concentration prepares you for a wide range of administrative roles in the recreation field.

Diverse Career Opportunities

Graduates can pursue roles such as:

• Recreation Program Director 
• Parks and Recreation Administrator 
• Community Center Manager 
• Campus Recreation Coordinator 
• Youth Program Director 
• Therapeutic Recreation Supervisor 
• Nonprofit Recreation Manager 
• Facility Operations Manager 
• Leisure Services Consultant 
• Recreation Policy Analyst 

Join a community of recreation professionals dedicated to enhancing lives through leadership, innovation, and inclusive leisure services. Your journey to becoming a leader in recreation administration starts here.
[1]: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Recreation Workers

Next Steps
     

     
Contact Us
     
RecreationAndLeisureGrad@SouthernCT.edu

College of Health and Human Services

Application Requirements

Application Submission
Application Fee ($50)
Official Transcripts

Capstone Requirement (Choose One)

Special Project
Thesis

Cost of Program

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