AREA OF STUDY

 There are various elements associated with this specialization: education - educating in, about, and for the out-of-doors; recreation - broad spectrum of outdoor activities that relate to using, understanding and/or appreciating the natural resources; organized camping- consists of education/recreation activities in an outdoor setting with emphasis on individual and group living; and environmental interpretation helping individuals understand the environment around them as well as developing enthusiasm for learning more about it.

Duties:           

Because there is such a wide variety of leadership responsibilities as a result of the variety of programs, a single set of specific duties is difficult to state.  

Titles:

Camp Director, Tour Guide, Nature Leader, Park Ranger, Resort Owner/Operator, Children's Zoo Leader, Interpretive Naturalist, Nature Center Programmer, Outdoor Specialist with State, County, or Municipal Park and Recreation Systems, Outdoor Recreation Planner, Outdoor Activity Specialist (winter sports, hiking, rafting, etc.) 

Starting Salary:

Most graduates entering any one of the fields with a bachelor's degree start at $20,000 to $23,000.  In some natural resource settings, 40 hours per week may be standard; however, their hours can be long and irregular, with a lot of overtime. 

Employment Outlook:   

Adventure recreation, adventure travel and eco-tourism are three of the fastest growing areas within this field.  Consequently, a growing number of public and private agencies need well-trained leaders for their adventure programs. The following are some of the organizations that often sponsor recreation/education programs: elementary and secondary school systems; scouting organizations; resident camps; resorts; local public recreation and leisure service agencies; commercial outfitters; college and university outdoor programs; national outdoor challenge programs such as Outward Bound, the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) and the Wilderness Education Association (WEA); hospitals, rehabilitation centers and other recreation therapy agencies and programs serving special populations.  Our graduates have found employment through many of these organizations as well as the National Park and National Forest Services. 

QUESTIONS STUDENTS OFTEN ASK 

What personal characteristics should I possess to be successful as a leader in the outdoor recreation field?

One of the most essential aspects of adventure programming is leadership.  Hiring agencies will look for graduates with a record of safe and effective outdoor leadership; one which reflects sound judgment, maturity, and effective personal and interpersonal skills; particularly the ability to relate to diverse client groups.  Through the Wilderness Institute (RCPT 476) and through RU Outdoors, the Student Union tripping program, you will have ample opportunity to develop and strengthen your outdoor leadership skills. 

What academic strengths should I possess to be successful as a leader in the outdoor recreation field?

Beyond the knowledge, understanding and abilities secured through the core of the Recreation, Parks and Tourism curriculum and the requirements of the outdoor track, you should emphasize, both through general education and in your general electives, one or more of the following areas: the natural and physical sciences, including Physical Geography; Psychology, Sociology, Criminal Justice, Cultural Geography; Communications, and a number of disciplines within the College of Business and Economics.  Your academic advisor will assist you in choosing from a list of supportive coursework and possible academic minors consistent with your needs and interests. Outdoor leadership focuses on the ability to communicate effectively with a wide variety of client groups and the knowledge of and ability to facilitate individual and group process and development.   

Are internships or other experiential learning opportunities available, either for credit or on an extracurricular basis? 

Yes.  In fact, a twelve semester hour internship – 15 weeks or 600 hours averaging 40 hours per week – (RCPT 470) is required of all Recreation, Parks and Tourism majors.  In addition, field trips are required as part of the outdoor courses.  Also, there are numerous outdoor field trips provided by RU Outdoors, all of which provide opportunities for skill and leadership development.  Lastly, summer jobs as well as volunteer experiences add to the many avenues for experiential learning. 

What special skills or abilities will I develop as a Recreation, Parks and Tourism major specializing in the outdoor concentration?

You will develop novice to intermediate and advanced technical skills in rock climbing, caving, backpacking, canoeing, kayaking, and ropes courses.  In addition, you will have opportunities to develop the skills to organize, lead and evaluate a variety of outdoor adventure programs and activities. 

What certification is commonly required for professionals in the outdoor recreation field?

There is no single, universally accepted certification for outdoor leaders in the United States.  There are, however, a number of certifications and trainings specific to activities or program areas that are available to you through the Department of Recreation, Parks and Tourism.  For example, Project Adventure ropes course training and a Basic River Canoeing certification are offered through the Department. Wilderness First Responder training is also offered through the Wilderness Medical Associates.  You are encouraged to acquire as many of these curricular and extracurricular trainings as possible. 

Must I have previous outdoor experience to take outdoor courses or to specialize in the outdoor concentration?

No.  The required courses in the outdoor concentration--Outdoor Living Skills (RCPT 331), High Adventure Outdoor Recreation Sports (RCPT 317) and Camp Counseling (RCPT 235)---are all entry-level courses. 

Do I have to be in good physical condition to take outdoor courses or to become an outdoor leader?

No.  However, a sound level of health and physical fitness (agility, endurance, and strength) will contribute to the safety, skill-building and enjoyment of your participation in outdoor adventures. 

What is the Wilderness Institute?

The Wilderness Institute (RCPT 476) is a nine credit hour, intensive, mostly experiential summer school course.  With elements of Outward Bound, NOLS, WEA and Project Adventure, the Institute is Radford University's unique approach to wilderness-based outdoor leadership training. 

Where can I obtain more information about the field of Outdoor Recreation?

·         Department of Recreation, Parks and Tourism

·         Career Services Center

·         McConnell Library

·         Center for Counseling and Student Development

·         Advising Centers

·         George Harvey Learning Center