Applying to the Major

Application

Declare the Recreation Management & Leadership major now.

Contact academic advisor Jen Leita to declare.

Recreation Management and Leadership (RML): More Than a Degree 

A degree in Recreation Management and Leadership (RML) is more than just a line on a diploma—it’s a transformative experience. Our cohort-based program fosters hands-on learning and meaningful, community-centered work that prepares students to make a real impact in their careers. RML graduates don’t just enter the workforce; they create spaces and programs that inspire connection with nature, emphasize fun and personal growth, and cultivate belonging and inclusion. 

A Unique, Cohort-Based Learning Experience 

What sets the RML program apart is its structure. Students progress together through the program as a cohort, following a carefully sequenced and scaffolded curriculum. Coursework in inclusive leadership, management, human relations, program planning, finance, and evaluation provides practical skills applicable to any career, while specialized classes in outdoor recreation, community recreation, sustainable tourism, and therapeutic recreation open doors to diverse and rewarding professional paths. 

Beyond the classroom, the RML experience is enriched by a strong sense of community and built-in opportunities for real-world engagement. Students know that their experiences and ideas matter. Faculty form close connections with students, offering personalized mentorship and advising. The program incorporates intentional community-building opportunities, such as quarterly retreats. 

Hands-On Learning That Makes an Impact 

The RML program emphasizes applied learning through partnerships with local organizations and nonprofits. Students gain hands-on experience by: 

  • Planning and leading a day camp for adults with disabilities
  • Attending professional conferences organized by the Washington Parks and Recreation Association and the Washington State Therapeutic Recreation Association
  • Engaging in internships that provide valuable industry experience
  • An overnight Leave No Trace certification training
  • Community-based sustainable tourism with the Makah First Nation in Neah Bay (3/day, 2/night field trip).
  • And it works! For over 50 years, the RML cohort model has produced graduates who form a vibrant, global professional network. 

What can you do with a degree in Recreation Management and Leadership? 

Recreation Management and Leadership offers a curriculum for persons interested in careers in recreation and leisure services. It provides a solid professional foundation that allows all majors to work in a variety of fields, such as outdoor, community, therapeutic, military, and commercial recreation.  

Common Areas Include: 

  • Municipal Parks and Recreation Agencies
  • Adventure Tour Guide
  • National and State Parks
  • Program Director for Non-Profit Agencies 
  • Camp Director
  • Community Events Coordinator
  • Travel and Tourism Management
  • Youth and Sports Programming
  • Recreation and Adventure Therapy Settings 

RML by the Numbers 

  • RML students graduate at a higher rate: While WWU’s six-year graduation rate is 66%, the RML program boasts an average rate of 89.5%.
  • Strong employment outcomes: In a 2022 survey of 423 graduates, only five reported being unemployed and seeking work.
  • 64% of recent graduates secured full-time jobs within three months.
  • 75% found full-time employment within a year.
  • A thriving industry:
  • 10% of jobs worldwide are connected to tourism.
  • Outdoor recreation supports 200,000 jobs in Washington state—more than the tech and aerospace industries combined.
  • Lucrative career opportunities: Recent job postings in the field include:
  • Therapeutic Recreation Supervisor | Hayward Recreation & Park District | $108K–$131K
  • Park Ranger Supervisor | Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation | $122K–$148K
  • Aquatics Facility Manager | City of Dallas | $74K–$92K
  • Parks and Trails Regional Manager | MN Department of Natural Resources | $90K–$130K 

Join the RML Major Today! 

If you're a sophomore, be sure to join Phase 1 of the RML program this spring. Don’t worry if you haven’t completed the prerequisites – we can waive them for you so you can jump right into Phase 1! For more details, contact Jen Leita at atwellj@wwu.edu. 

Spring Course Registration: 

  • RECR 261: Inclusive Recreation Leadership (6 credits) 

Choose three (3) of the following courses: 

  • RECR 271: Introduction to Community Recreation (3 credits)
  • RECR 272: Introduction to Outdoor Recreation (3 credits)
  • RECR 274: Introduction to Therapeutic Recreation (3 credits)
  • RECR 279: Introduction to Tourism (3 credits) 

Transfer Students or High Credit Students (90+ credits): 

If you are a transfer student or have 90+ credits, please meet with Jen Leita to discuss alternative paths for completing all phases is an order that works for you. We're committed to keeping you on track for graduation. 

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