Central Michigan's outdoor recreation major is a flexible major that allows you and your adviser to plan an individualized program that fits your career goals. The major is 51 to 66 credit hours.

Examples of courses offered include Outdoor Leadership, Outdoor & Environmental Recreation, Park Management, Teaching Outdoor Skills, and Leadership in Adventure Education Programming. A 30-week internship at an outdoor recreation site and a minor in natural resources, earth science or geology is required.

The Department of Recreation, Parks and Leisure Services also offers a minor in Outdoor & Environmental Education for teachers in elementary or secondary grades.

B.A.A. / B.A. / B.S. Degree Requirements

An internship and a minor is required on this concentration. A minor or equivalent in Natural Resources, Earth Science, Geology, or Environmental Studies (B.A.A. only) is preferred; other minors may be considered only through consultation and approval from a departmental adviser.

Requirements for a degree in RPL's Outdoor Recreation concentration may differ depending on the year you enroll with our program. To get the latest requirements, please visit CMU's online academic bulletin. The online academic bulletin allows for full customization of your program, and includes the most current course descriptions.

CMU Online Academic Bulletin - https://bulletins.cmich.edu/

The department places a strong emphasis on the practical aspects of your training. Your internship experience will be designed to assist you with your specific interests. In the past, internships have been completed throughout Michigan as well as across the United States. You may gain additional practical experience through numerous community service projects and volunteer opportunities coordinated through the department and the Student Recreation Association. Many CMU students are active in professional associations to assist in their growth and development.

Student Advising

Our department has designated faculty to assist you with your Outdoor Recreation degree.

For students interested in Outdoor Leadership/Adventure Education: Rob Schumacker
For students interested in Park Management/Outdoor Site & Facility Design: Rob Schumacker
For students interested in Outdoor & Environmental Education/Interpretation: Lynn Dominguez