Recreation and Tourism (M.S.) 45 units
Program Description
In our very diverse world, managing organizations is increasingly more complex. A Master’s of Science in Recreation and Tourism will provide an in-depth to understanding of the fast moving, increasingly-complex challenges in the world of recreation. Through exploring the literature and theories, and how to scientifically gather data to make informed decisions, graduates will be better prepared for the world’s legal, personal, and ethical dilemmas presented in their work environments. This program is offered fully online. It will make use of interactive, online learning activities designed to challenge and inspire growth. Students “come” to “class” at times when they are ready to learn-not at a specific time in the evening after working all day. It is not a self-paced program. Discussions happen asynchronously. One might log on at 10 p.m. or find a classmate is awake and doing work online at 4 a.m. after he got off the night shift. This way of learning is different. You are not only the receiver of knowledge, but now you are asked to be more actively engaged in your own learning. You will be asked not only to absorb, but also to discover and create knowledge. The role of the instructor is the designer of these learning challenges. This is much more like what happens in the real world of work.
The program is designed to provide a strong intellectual core, but also to allow specialization via projects.
This program is 45 units, 10 courses of 4.5 units each and two courses will be offered each quarter. It is possible to complete this program in 5 quarters, although some students will want more time to accommodate their work schedules. The degree must be completed within 5 years.
The faculty is committed to students’ success, both in work and graduate school. The courses will be offered once a year, 2 courses each of all four quarters.
Student Learning Outcomes
Students graduating with an M.S. in Recreation and Tourism from Cal State East Bay will be able to:
- Analyze and use evidence-based research and technology to identify challenges and generate effective, sustainable solutions related to personnel, program and logistics areas; and provide relevant references.
- Demonstrate significant knowledge of exemplary leadership, and teamwork strategies; innovative and effective management skills; and evaluation of service quality and consumer needs through professional experience.
- Articulate clearly (speak and write) the ethical, theoretical, philosophical, and current management practices and administrative foundations of the profession.
- Develop a systems approach to create a culture of dignity and respect among individuals, communities, and organizations.
Career Possibilities
- Recreation Program Manager
- Youth Sports Manager
- Event Manager
- Meetings and Conference Manager
- Aquatics Manager
- Senior Center Manager
- Resort Manager
- Retirement Community Program Director
- Camp Director
- Preschool Director
- After-school Director
- Country Club Manager
Features
Our student-centered department has designed this masters degree for working adults. All of our courses are offered totally online. We are dedicated to helping you realize your dreams. Our friendly, accessible faculty will advise you about meeting all requirements in the most efficient manner. We have excellent industry contacts and can help you plan your future advancement in our profession. All our faculty have been Leisure and Hospitality industry professionals.
Admission
Prerequisites and Criteria for admission:
- Baccalaureate degree from an accredited university. It is expected that most students applying for this program will have a BS in Hospitality, Recreation & Tourism.
- If your undergraduate degree is not in Recreation or Hospitality, you may need some foundational courses. This will be determined when your transcript and work experience are evaluated by a graduate advisor or the department chair.
- GPA of 2.75 in last 60 hours of course work is required.
- Must have 2 years of work experience in the field
- Acceptable TOEFL minimum score of 550 (International Students) or above (237 on the Computer-Based TOEFL), or by posting an official transcript showing graduation with a bachelor’s degree from a U.S. college or university where English is the principal language of instruction, or by an official letter from the college or university certifying that English is the language of instruction.
- Three letters of recommendation
- Official transcripts from all institutions of higher learning attended
- Current resume
In addition to the University Graduate and Post-Baccalaureate Application, all applicants should submit to the department
- personal statement explaining their reasons for wanting to pursue the M.S. in Recreation and Tourism degree,
- an up-to-date resume detailing professional and academic achievements, and
- three letters of recommendations from those who know them best in a professional light. At least one should be from a superior (immediate supervisor) and one should come from someone who knows their academic abilities.
Admission to the University and admission to the M.S. in Recreation and Tourism degree are separate but simultaneous steps.
Advancement to Candidacy
There are three categories of student status, which reflect student progress toward the degree: “Conditionally Classified Graduate” student, “Classified Graduate” student, and “Advancement to Candidacy” student.
1. Students achieve “Conditionally Classified Graduate” status when they have been admitted to the M.S. in Recreation and Tourism degree program, but have not yet completed the prerequisites for “Classified Graduate” status in the M.S. in Recreation and Tourism.
2. Students achieve “Classified Graduate” status when they have satisfied the University Writing Skills Requirement. For information on meeting the University Writing Skills Requirement, see the Testing Office website at www.csueastbay.edu/testing or call 510.885.3661.
3. Students are advanced to Candidacy when they have completed the required courses with a 3.0 or better GPA.
Note: Students who fail to maintain progress by falling below a 3.0 GPA in their graduate courses for two or more consecutive quarters will be academically disqualified from the university. All graduate degree requirements must be completed within 5 years.
Granting the Degree
Upon satisfaction of all requirements for the degree, the department will recommend that the candidate be granted the Degree of Master of Recreation and Tourism. Students must file for graduation by the second week of the quarter prior to the quarter in which they expect to graduate.
Required Courses (45 units)
Students completing the departmental thesis may either sign up individually or with a faculty advisor. Departmental thesis is directed by one faculty member. Two copies of the departmental thesis are required for the department.
