
Recreation Management
About
The Recreation Management program develops competencies in technical, problem-solving, human relations and management skills that are needed for employment.
The Activity/Fitness Emphasis area develops an ability to plan, implement and evaluate recreation programs. Students may serve as center directors; pool directors; hotel, resort or cruise ship social directors; YMCA/YWCA program leaders; and health club staff. Job opportunities exist in recreation and sports centers, aquatic facilities, theme parks, resorts, community centers, senior centers, parks, campgrounds and other recreational venues. Graduates of this program typically earn $22,000 to $32,000 per year.
The Facility Operations Emphasis area develops an ability to plan, maintain, develop, operate and protect natural and man-made resource areas, facilities and equipment, and to develop activity programming. Students may serve as park rangers, building and grounds supervisors, park resource assistants, and park recreation specialists. Job opportunities also exist in campgrounds, sports centers, golf courses, ski areas and the Department of Natural Resources. Graduates of this program typically earn $24,000 to $40,000 per year.
Recreation Management program credits transfer to George Williams College, Aurora University for the Recreation Management degree.
Admissions
Requirements for Program Application
The following is required to process your application:
- High School transcript - or
- Completed COMPASS - or
- HSED/GED Test Scores - or
- College transcript showing an Associate's, Bachelor's or higher degree from an institution other than Madison College
Fall 2011
Madison College begins collecting applications for the following year's fall semester on September 1, 2010. For this program applications must be received by August 31, 2011, to be considered for the fall semester. All supporting documentation (transcripts, test scores, etc.) must be received by September 15, 2011.
Spring 2012
Madison College begins collecting applications for the following year's spring semester on January 16, 2011. For this program applications must be received by January 15, 2012, to be considered for the spring semester. All supporting documentation (transcripts, test scores, etc.) must be received by February 2, 2012.
Program Outcomes
- Use effective oral and written communication with co-workers, supervisors, clients, and organizational groups.
- Manage work teams by defining tasks, assigning duties, and evaluating task performance.
- Practice and properly apply appropriate professional standards, regulations, and laws pertinent to recreation management.
- Understand and differentiate between a variety of agency missions, philosophies, policies, and procedures.
- Apply safety and first aid procedures, adhere to O.S.H.A. standards, and follow emergency procedures.
- Plan, implement, and evaluate recreational experiences.
- Execute proper equipment and vehicle operations and maintenance.
- Train and direct small and large groups of staff, clients, and volunteers to assist and/or perform organized recreational activities.
- Write measurable goals and objectives for recreational activities.
- Construct, defend, and use an operating budget.
- Prepare for professional certifications appropriate to recreation career.
- Prepare and present marketing and promotional materials.
- Demonstrate respect for and awareness of special populations to provide appropriate recreational opportunities.
- Demonstrate pride in the profession through motivation, initiative, positive attitude, and flexibility.
- Prepare for professional advancement through additional education.
Employment
A grade of "C" or higher is required in all core (program specific) courses in order to graduate.
For Recreation Services: Activity/Fitness Leader:
- Activity Director
- Health Club Attendent
- Personal Trainer
- YMCA Sports Coordinator
- Recreation Programmer
- Resort Social Director
- Cruise Ship Activity Director
- Senior Center Director
With additional education and/or work experience, graduates may find employment as:
- Exercise Physiologist
- Campground Manager
- Recreation Director
For Recreation Services: Facility Operations Specialist:
- Arborist
- Campground Assistant Manager
- Golf Course Maintenance
- Golf Course Assistant Superintendent
- Park Ranger
- Sports Facility Operator
- Ski Facility Operator
With additional education and/or work experience, graduates may find employment as:
- Conservation Warden
- Golf Course Superintendent
- Park Manager
Additional Info
The Recreation Services: Facilities Operations Specialist
The program is designed to develop competencies in technical, problem-solving, human relations and management skills that are needed for employment. The program develops an ability to plan, maintain, develop, operate and protect natural and man-made resource areas, facilities and equipment, and to develop activity programming. Students may serve as park rangers, building and grounds supervisors, park resource assistants, and park and recreation specialists. Job opportunities also exist in campgrounds, sports centers, pro shops, ski areas and the Department of Natural Resources. Graduates of this program typically earn $20,000 to $36,000 per year.
+
= A Semester of credit by Living, Working and Learning at Walt Disney World with Mickey Mouse and His friends!!!
Students can register for and receive up to 12 MATC credits while participating in the Disney World College Program.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Visit the Disney College Program website for complete information or contact Jack Hart (608) 246-6197, Truax campus room 125.
Please see the following link(s) for certificates related to this program:


