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Department of Parks, Recreation, Exercise & Sport Science

College of Health Sciences

Department of Parks, Recreation, Exercise & Sport Science

College of Health Sciences

Fulfill Your Passion and Make a Difference

Helping others manage their mental, emotional, and physical health and wellness is a rapidly growing field. Programs in the department of parks, recreation, exercise, and sport science all work to support improved function for individuals in all areas of their lives, indoors and outdoors and have a direct impact on not only improving quality of life, but the communities we live in. Additionally, recreation and tourism account for one of the world’s largest industries leading to a variety of exciting career opportunities across the globe.

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Department of Parks, Recreation, Exercise & Sport Science Degrees & Certificates

Undergraduate Programs

graduate Programs

Why Study Parks, Recreation, Exercise & Sport Science?

With the country’s increased focus on health, wellness and work-life balance, programs in the department of parks, recreation, exercise and sport science lead to in-demand careers that not only help others but fulfill your passions as well. Make a difference in your community doing a job you love.

The EKU Recreation and Park Administration Program is proud to be accredited by the Council on Accreditation for Parks, Recreation, Tourism and related Professions (COAPRT) since 1980 (Standard 3.07). COAPRT accredits baccalaureate programs in parks, recreation, tourism, sport management, event management, therapeutic recreation, and leisure studies offered at regionally accredited institutions within the United States and its territories, and at nationally accredited institutions in Canada and Mexico.

Important Information Regarding Degree Mills
Please watch this important video regarding degree and accreditation mills. According to CHEA, “Degree mills and accreditation mills mislead and harm. In the United States, degrees and certificates from mills may not be acknowledged by other institutions when students seek to transfer or go to graduate school. Employers may not acknowledge degrees and certificates from degree mills when providing tuition assistance for continuing education. “Accreditation” from an accreditation mill can mislead students and the public about the quality of an institution. In the presence of degree mills and accreditation mills, students may spend a good deal of money and receive neither an education nor a useable credential.” Read more on CHEA’s website.

7.0 COARPT Results 2020-2026 COARPT Accreditation Reports

Student Stories & Features

  • Lauren Close

    EKU Exercise and Sport Science Graduate
    Earning my master’s from EKU provided me with the expertise to enter my desired career field. Not only did I gain the skills and experience to stand out to employers, I formed lasting relationships that remain an important part of my professional journey. The EKU faculty were a huge part of my success as a student and their steadfast support has continued into my professional career.

  • Erin Thompson

    EKU Recreation and Park Administration Graduate
    I love how much service-learning experiences we have in RPA and that classes are not just lecture. I am building an amazing resume as a result.

  • Patrick Rood

    EKU Recreation and Park Administration Graduate
    I love RPA because it is family. If someone is struggling or feeling down, there is always someone to pick you up. You will always find a friendly face and a warm smile when you go into the department. My true and most happy self is all thanks to the department.

Recreation & Park Administration

Recreation and park administration prepares students for careers in recreation therapy, event planning, outdoor recreation, natural resource management, camp administration, tourism and resort recreation, campus recreation, facility management and more! Students will graduate with 615 hours of fieldwork and internships along with numerous hands-on service learning class events preparing students for successful employment.

Exercise and Sport Science

Prepare to excel as a healthcare professional (athletic trainer, physical therapist), a fitness professional, or someone who impacts the health and wellness through sport or recreation. Our degree programs prepare students with cutting edge theory combined with practical learning experiences taught by outstanding faculty, emphasizing current clinical skills and practice trends.

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Upcoming Events

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New Faculty Symposium

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Family Day 2026

October 2, 2026 at – October 4, 2026 at calendar-multiday

News & Updates

EKU Students Showcase Research at Posters-at-the-Capitol

Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) undergraduate students presented their research to legislators at the 24th annual Posters-at-the-Capitol on March 5 at the Kentucky State Capitol.  Four EKU students joined 32 other undergraduate students from across the state to showcase the results of their research. The research showcase was hosted collaboratively with the University of Kentucky, the […]

EKU’s Exercise and Sport Science Program Shapes Strong Future Professionals

In one of Eastern Kentucky University’s (EKU) Exercise and Sport Science labs, junior Megan Fuson learns through quality instruction and instructional aids such as anatomical and skeletal models. She also practices strength and flexibility testing methods using adjustable exercise chairs and high-tech equipment. EKU’s Exercise and Sport Science (ESS) program aims to meet a rising […]

Students Take Their Research to Harvard, Representing EKU at the National Level

In January, six Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) students traveled to Harvard University and presented their research at the National Collegiate Research Conference (NCRC). This marked the second time students from EKU attended the conference, following recommendations from faculty mentors. “Our students being accepted to showcase their research at the NCRC—at Harvard—shows the massive potential of […]

Contact Information

Department of Parks, Recreation,
Exercise & Sport Science

Combs Building
Room 208 & 215A
213 Park Drive
Richmond, KY 40475

Recreation & Park Administration
859-622-1833

Exercise & Sport Science
859-622-8149

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