Master of Science in Recreation with an Emphasis in Hospitality Online

An introduction to present-day methods and techniques of research, applicable to the fields of health, physical education and recreation.

Basic foundation of data analysis covering descriptive and inferential statistics and how to use these to improve practice and research and to appropriately assess findings. Covers both parametric and nonparametric applications to the health, physical education, recreation and dance fields.

Acquaints students with the vocabulary, concept and practices in the study of grants administration and management. Enables practicing the skills necessary in obtaining outside funding and provides awareness of the individual roles and agencies within public funding.

Familiarizes the student with appropriate assessment/evaluation techniques as they are utilized in various leisure service settings. Techniques related to the delivery of recreation programs, park and recreation resources, and personnel are reviewed. Emphasis is placed on those assessment/evaluation skills used by leisure professionals to determine the extent to which programmatic and organizational goals and objectives have been achieved.

Course will provide an overview of (1) the basic concepts associated with psychometric assessment, (2) a variety of individual client assessments used in practice and (3) the use of therapeutic recreation assessments in the development of individualized treatment/program plans. Prerequisite(s): REC 45243 or REC 45345 or REC 45621 or permission of instructor.

Designed to familiarize students with tasks common to mid-level managers in the field. Offers opportunities to confront ethical issues and discuss possible solutions in the context of information learned in the course.

Designed to give students a basic understanding of their legal responsibilities as teachers, coaches, trainers, and recreation professionals to provide a safe environment for those they serve, and to develop an understanding of the law and how it may apply to the rights of students, special populations, women, and co-workers.

The course offers students opportunities to develop an understanding of the importance, process, and complexity of tourism planning. Strategic tourism policy involves creating a long-term vision for a destination by developing and managing tourism to achieve economic, social, and environmental goals. This course examines the relationship among tourists, tourist developments and the planning of tourist attractions and services. It focuses on the planning of tourist resources and programs within a geographic region, as well as at a destination and site level. Planning tools and design concepts are reviewed and analyzed. Various national and international tourism and destination management organizations will be highlighted to demonstrate the evolving importance of tourism planning and management.

The course covers topics such as sustainability, technological innovation, evolving guest expectations, and the impact of globalization. The purpose of the course is to build students’ ability to develop and critically evaluate contemporary research topics in tourism, hospitality and event management. The course explores a variety of research trends, from classic to new topical area and will focus on those issues that are deemed to be the most significant for the sector. It emphasizes the identification and evaluation of industry trends, such as smart tourism, digital transformation, crisis management, and sustainable event practices. Learners apply theoretical concepts to real-world case studies, engaging in research, discussions, and presentations to develop strategic responses to industry challenges.

The course aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully navigate the dynamic landscape of sustainability in the hotel and event sector while ensuring the highest standards of customer service and environmental responsibility. This course examines the principles of sustainable development, water conservation, waste management, eco-design and provides an overview of ethics, sustainable economics, and corporate social responsibility. This course examines the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of sustainability in the hospitality and event industries. Students explore sustainable operations, responsible leadership, eco-certification systems (such as GSTC and Green Key), and the strategic importance of sustainable practices for profitability, brand reputation, and community well-being. Through real-world case studies from global hotel chains and event venues, the course emphasizes green innovation, waste reduction, renewable energy integration, ethical sourcing, and sustainability reporting aligned with international standards.

The course introduces the principles of service excellence within hospitality and event management by combining theoretical frameworks with practical applications. Students learn how to manage customer interactions, anticipate guest needs, and lead service teams effectively to exceed client expectations. This course examines both traditional and new approaches for achieving operational competitiveness in service businesses like hotels and event management companies. Students shall be introduced to the world of customer service, service management, marketing and service leadership. Major service sectors such as hotels and event management companies will be examined.