COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Science in Recreation, Sports and Park Administration at St. Joseph's University, New York (Brooklyn campus) includes a comprehensive set of required and elective courses designed to prepare students for careers in recreation management and therapeutic services. The core of the major consists of required courses such as Group Dynamics and Communication, Foundations of Leisure Services, and Program Planning and Leadership Skills, which develop interpersonal, organizational, and leadership abilities. Students also complete Recreation Administration I and II to gain insight into managing recreation programs and services.A strong emphasis is placed on therapeutic recreation, with required courses including Therapeutic Recreation for Individuals with Disabilities, Introduction to Therapeutic Recreation, Leisure Education, and Therapeutic Recreation in Community-Based Settings. These courses equip students with the skills needed to design and implement inclusive recreational programs for diverse populations. The program culminates in a Recreation, Sports and Park Administration Internship, providing hands-on experience in a professional setting.To complete the remaining credits, students select from a variety of specialized electives that focus on areas such as therapeutic recreation for children, geriatric populations, psychiatric settings, and individuals with physical or developmental disabilities. Additional courses cover facility planning, recreation skills, and current issues in therapeutic recreation, allowing students to tailor their education to specific interests.The program also recommends supporting courses in psychology and sociology, such as Life Span Development, Adolescent Psychology, Adult Development and Aging, Social Problems, and Race and Ethnicity. These suggested courses enhance students’ understanding of human behavior and social contexts, which is essential for effective program design and client interaction. Overall, the curriculum provides a balanced mix of theory and practical experience, preparing graduates for diverse roles in recreation, sports, and community services.