Recreation, Park, Tourism, and Hospitality

Recreation, Park and Tourism Administration Options

An option, as defined by WIU Faculty Senate, is a subdivision of a major which provides greater specificity within a major. While all students within a major take the same core courses, options allow students a way to have specific skill sets noted on their transcripts.

Adapted Recreation and Inclusion Option - Macomb

This option positions students interested in inclusion, disability and adaptive recreation/sport, and recreation therapy for careers in these fields. As the population of the U.S. ages and becomes more diverse there will be an increased need for individuals capable of delivering programs specifically designed for individuals with disabilities and marginalized communities.

Community Organizations Option - Macomb, Quad Cities and Remote

This option was designed for students interested in careers in public recreation, nonprofit administration, and youth leadership. In the State of Illinois there are more than 300 park districts, roughly 100,000 nonprofit organizations, and an incalculable number of organizations involved in delivering programs for youth and families at the community level.

Outdoor Recreation Option - Macomb

This option was designed for students interested in pursuing careers in outdoor education and resource management. According to the Outdoor Industry Association (2017), the outdoor recreation economy provides 7.6 million jobs in the United States, and facilitates $887 billion dollars in annual consumer spending. Historically, RPTA has been a national leader in outdoor recreation curriculum.

Recreation, Park and Tourism Administration Option - Macomb, Quad Cities and Remote

This option was designed to provide students the most flexibility in regard to scheduling and location. It allows students to gain a broader exposure to the leisure industries rather than focusing their coursework in one area.

Tourism, Hospitality, and Event Management - Macomb, Quad Cities and Remote

This option was designed for students interested in finding employment in the food and beverage, destination management, events and festivals, lodging, and/or travel industries. Industry trends suggest that companies want employees who are knowledgeable of Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management and that an integrated curriculum provides students with more marketable skills.