Erin Thompson
EKU Recreation and Park Administration GraduateI 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.
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.
Student Stories & Features
Recreation & Park Administration
Recreation and parks administration students and faculty are engaged in classroom instruction, service-learning projects, grant writing, and research. The faculty is committed and strongly believes in providing a combination of theory and experience to prepare and motivate students for successful employment in the field.
Exercise and Sport Science
Prepare to excel as a healthcare professional (athletic trainer, recreational therapist, 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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News & Updates
Roping in Rescues, Serving Eastern Kentucky
Hikers in Red River Gorge might not realize that one wrong step could plunge them off a 200-foot cliff hidden by the undergrowth. When accidents like that happen, John May, […]
A Day in the Life: Student Fitness Instructor Julia Day Empowers Others
“You are capable of way more than you think,” Senior Julia Day says in the weekly strength circuit class that she teaches at Eastern Kentucky University’s (EKU) Recreation Center. As a […]
Beyond the Classroom: EKU Students Stand Out in State Internships
Last summer, the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet (EEC) in Frankfort hired more than a dozen interns from Eastern Kentucky University (EKU). “All of these students have sought out interdisciplinary […]
Contact Information
Department of Parks, Recreation,
Exercise & Sport Science
521 Lancaster Avenue
Combs 208 & 215A
Richmond, KY 40475
Recreation & Park Administration
859-622-1833
Exercise & Sport Science
859-622-8149