Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies (PRLS)

Parks and Outdoor Recreation and Therapeutic Recreation at George Mason University

Increasingly recognized as contributing to the livability of communities and quality of life for all people, parks and recreation programs play a major role in promoting a healthy lifestyle and environment. The nationally-accredited curriculum in Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies at George Mason University, with concentrations in both Parks and Outdoor Recreation and Therapeutic Recreation provides students with the framework necessary for professional development, career advancement, and advanced education through a combination of rewarding learning and practical experiences.

Students in both concentrations are exposed to the various facets of this dynamic and rapidly growing field. Our graduates are prepared to make a real difference – informing policy, promoting economic development, advocating stewardship of natural resources, encouraging inclusive community service and lifelong recreation participation, and working to enhance the quality of life of all individuals, families, and communities at the local, national, and international levels.

BS in Health, Fitness, and Recreation Resources —
Parks and Outdoor Recreation (POR)

Parks and Outdoor Recreation graduates plan and implement community recreation and sport programs, services, and events; lead outdoor adventure activities; teach about the environment using experiential learning techniques; and manage natural and cultural resources and their recreational uses. Fieldwork, internship, and employment opportunities abound in Northern Virginia, Maryland, and the greater Washington (DC) metropolitan area.

BS in Health, Fitness, and Recreation Resources —
Therapeutic Recreation (TR)

Therapeutic Recreation graduates implement activities as tools for intervention and rehabilitation to enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities in a variety of clinical and community settings. Fieldwork, internship, and employment opportunities abound in Northern Virginia, Maryland, and the greater Washington (DC) metropolitan area.

Minor in Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies (PRLS)

The PRLS minor is an excellent complement to a Mason bachelor’s degree program or major, and assists students in furthering their education and career goals.  Students are required to complete 18 credits in parks, recreation, and leisure studies courses, including a practicum field experience.  This minor is available to all Mason students (including those studying Information Technology and Engineering, Health and Human Services, Environmental Science and Policy, Psychology, Management), with the exception of RHT students in any one of the HFRR degree programs. More Minor Information

Accreditation

The Parks and Outdoor Recreation and Therapeutic Recreation programs are accredited by the National Recreation and Park Association/American Association for Physical Activity and Recreation (NRPA/AAPAR) Council on Accreditation.   This status is granted to an institution or program that meets or exceeds stated criteria of educational quality and excellence.  As a nationally-accredited program, our graduates are prepared to assume leadership roles in a wide range of professional careers, and to qualify for application as a Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) or Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS).

 

“Leave all the afternoon for exercise and recreation, which are as necessary as reading…” 

— Thomas Jefferson

 

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