Community Resources and Development (Parks and Recreation Management), MS
Program Overview
The Community Resources and Development (Parks and Recreation Management) MS program at ASU prepares students to analyze and address critical issues in tourism, parks and recreation management, nonprofits, and sustainable communities. Through a research-oriented approach, students develop skills in community services management, sustainability analysis, and problem-solving using community solution analysis. The program offers a thesis or applied project option and prepares graduates for careers in governmental agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private-sector businesses.
Program Outline
Community Resources and Development (Parks and Recreation Management), MS - MS | Degree Details | ASU Degree Search
Degree Overview:
Description:
This research-oriented program prepares students to analyze and address critical topics and issues in tourism, parks and recreation management, nonprofits, NGOs, and sustainable communities. Students learn to approach and solve community-related problems through the lens of community solution analysis, considering regulatory, policy, and relationship factors for informed decision-making.
Objectives:
- Develop skills in community services management and development.
- Conduct research in tourism and related fields.
- Prepare for careers in parks and recreation management, nonprofit organizations, and private-sector businesses.
Program Features:
- Emphasis on research and critical thinking.
- Faculty mentorship and guidance.
- Opportunity to customize the program through electives and thesis/project options.
Length:
Completion of the program typically takes two years of study.
Outline:
Required Core (15 credit hours):
- CRD 500: Research Methods (3 credits)
- CRD 502: Statistical and Data Analysis (3 credits)
- CRD 530: Community Services Management (3 credits) or advanced inquiry course (3 credits)
- CRD 552: Critical Issues (3 credits)
- CRD 555: Theoretical Perspectives in Community Development (3 credits)
Concentration (6 credit hours):
- CRD 569: Advanced Tourism and Recreation Studies (3 credits)
- TDM 570: Sustainable Tourism (3 credits)
Electives (3 or 9 credit hours):
- Choose from a variety of courses relevant to your interests and career goals.
Culminating Experience (6 credit hours):
- CRD 593: Applied Project (6 credits) or
- CRD 599: Thesis (6 credits)
- Students choose between a thesis or applied project option.
- The thesis option is research-oriented and recommended for students planning further graduate studies.
- The applied project option focuses on professional development and career advancement.
Assessment:
Assessment methods may include:
- Exams
- Papers
- Presentations
- Projects
- Thesis/dissertation
Assessment criteria may include:
- Knowledge and understanding of course material
- Ability to apply concepts to real-world problems
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Communication and writing skills
Teaching:
Teaching methods include:
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Group discussions
- Case studies
- Field trips
Faculty:
- The program boasts a team of experienced and dedicated faculty members who are experts in their respective fields.
Unique approaches:
- The program emphasizes community solution analysis, a distinctive approach to problem-solving that considers all relevant factors.
Careers:
Graduates are prepared for careers in:
- Governmental agencies
- Nonprofit organizations
- Private-sector businesses
Specific career examples include:
- Community services officers
- Nonprofit and NGO officers
- Parks and recreation officers
- Tourism officers
Other:
- The program offers an accelerated option for students to complete their bachelor's and master's degrees in five years.
- Admission requirements include a bachelor's or master's degree from a regionally accredited institution and a minimum GPA of 3.00.
- International students must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores and a financial guarantee statement.
Arizona State University: A Comprehensive Overview
Overview:
Arizona State University (ASU) is a top-ranked research university located in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. It is known for its innovative approach to education, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. ASU is recognized for its commitment to inclusivity, serving learners at all stages of life and fostering a diverse and welcoming community.
Services Offered:
ASU provides a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:
Academic Support:
Tutoring, advising, and academic success resources.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, financial aid programs, and tuition assistance.Student Life:
Housing and dining, clubs and activities, health and wellness services, and transportation.Career Services:
Job and career resources, internship opportunities, and career counseling.Student Life and Campus Experience:
ASU offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide array of clubs, organizations, and events, fostering personal growth and development. The university's diverse student body creates a rich cultural environment, promoting global perspectives and intercultural understanding.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Top-Ranked Programs:
ASU boasts numerous top-ranked programs, including 82 programs ranked in the top 25 nationally, with 37 in the top 10.Innovative Learning Environment:
ASU embraces a flexible and personalized approach to learning, allowing students to customize their academic journey.World-Class Faculty:
Students benefit from instruction led by renowned professors and researchers, many of whom are leaders in their fields.Global Impact:
ASU is consistently ranked among the top universities for global impact, demonstrating its commitment to addressing global challenges.Diverse and Inclusive Community:
ASU fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment, embracing students from all backgrounds and promoting a sense of belonging.Academic Programs:
ASU offers over 800 degree programs across a wide range of disciplines, including:
Undergraduate:
More than 400 undergraduate degrees in fields such as engineering, journalism, business, sustainability, nursing, education, and more.Graduate:
Over 450 graduate degrees, including master's and doctoral programs.Other:
ASU is known for its commitment to research and innovation, with a strong focus on addressing real-world challenges. The university is also a leader in sustainability, promoting environmental responsibility and social justice.
Entry Requirements:
EU Home Students:
- Bachelor's degree:
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program.
- Bachelor's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.
- Master's degree:
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 in an applicable master's degree program.
- Master's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.
International Overseas Students (outside the EU):
- Bachelor's degree:
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program.
- Bachelor's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.
- Master's degree:
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 in an applicable master's degree program.
- Master's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.
- English Proficiency:
- Proof of English proficiency regardless of current residency.
- TOEFL or IELTS scores required.
- Financial guarantee statement required.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- TOEFL or IELTS scores: Required for international students whose native language is not English.
- Applicants without undergraduate academic work in related disciplines are required to take six credit hours of deficiency coursework in addition to the master's degree requirements.
- Deficiency coursework may be taken in conjunction with master's degree-level classes.
