About the Department
Overview
The Recreation, Parks and Tourism curriculum offers core classes that provide students with the skills needed to become recreational professionals in a variety of settings. Students then choose a concentration in outdoor recreation and leadership, tourism and special events and/or therapeutic recreation (some double- or triple- concentrate). Working closely with their academic advisor they create a schedule and coursework that meets the needs of their future career goals.
Alumni Testimonials
Many of our alumni stay actively engaged in the department in a variety of ways as guest speakers, conference hosts, research partners and internship supervisors. Here's what alumni have to say about the program:
"I loved the atmosphere of the major, which wasn't so focused on just learning the material but applying it also. In this major, we do a lot of hands-on application, and this is very important in prepareartion for the career world. The professors of this major are professionals who are willing to do anything for the promotion of their students." - LeAnne Coles '19
"Radford's RCPT program weas the best professional decision I ever made for myself because the knowledge and skills that I gained are put to use every day. The professors and the program shaped me into the wellrounded recreation professional and leader I am today, and I continue to learn from them."- Heather Benninghove '08, Center Director, Holiday Lake 4-H Educational Center, Appomattox, Virginia
"Radford University gave me the platform to pursue a dream career of providing dolphin-assisted therapy to kids and adults with special needs. Learning from the professors at RCPT has given me the leadership skills, educational foundation and practical experience to become successful." - Mallorie Parsons '16, Veteran and Internship Coordinator, Island Dolphin Care, Key Largo, Florida
News and Happenings
Recreation, Parks and Tourism Faculty, Staff and students provide and engage in diverse learning environments, community service and conduct professional research. To learn more about some of the highlights of our program click on the below links:
RCPT Student Creates Esports at RU
RCPT Faculty Defence Force Member Alumni Spotlight
Hanging on the Ropes Course Faculty Earns Research Award Faculty Offers Service Work
Outdoor Recreation Accreditated Wilderness First Responder History of First Tourism Institute