University of Vermont

What you'll study

This degree combines applied facility management, recreation programming and natural resource stewardship. Core topics typically include facility operations and maintenance, risk management and safety, budgeting and finance for facilities, asset management, sustainable design and green infrastructure, and legal and policy issues affecting parks and leisure services. Students also study leisure behaviour and community programming, leadership and human resource management, marketing and event management for recreation settings, and accessibility and inclusion in leisure services.

The course structure normally features classroom theory plus field laboratories and applied workshops. Practical modules often include outdoor and indoor facility systems (mechanical, turf and landscape), preventative maintenance planning, and custodial and grounds operations. Coursework culminates in an integrative capstone project or practicum placement with municipal parks departments, private recreation companies, conservation organisations or campus facilities.

• Facilities Operations & Maintenance
• Risk Management, Safety & Emergency Planning
• Budgeting, Finance & Asset Management for Recreation Facilities
• Sustainable Facility Design & Environmental Stewardship
• Recreation Programming, Inclusion & Community Engagement
• Leadership, HR & Volunteer Management
• Marketing, Events & Revenue Generation
• Capstone Project or Internship/Practicum

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a secondary school completion credential equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma. Typical academic preparation includes college preparatory coursework in English and mathematics; coursework or demonstrated interest in environmental science, biology, geography or physical education is advantageous. International applicants may submit IB or A‑level qualifications in place of national credentials.

The programme values practical experience. Applicants with background in seasonal park work, facilities or groundskeeping, outdoor leadership, lifeguarding, concessions or volunteer roles in recreation services are competitive. Admissions may require a personal statement outlining interest in parks and facilities management and one or more references. Some applicants may be invited for interview or asked to provide an activities resume.

Career prospects

Graduates move into operational and managerial roles in municipal and state parks, regional and national park services, resort and hospitality facilities, campus recreation, private recreation providers, and non‑profit conservation and outdoor education organisations. Job titles include parks superintendent, facilities manager, recreation manager, operations coordinator, event and programme manager, maintenance supervisor, and asset management specialist. With experience, graduates can progress into senior leadership roles responsible for strategic planning, capital projects, policy development and multi‑site operations.

Skills taught in the programme — budgeting and asset management, risk and emergency planning, sustainability practices, and community engagement — are also applicable to facility management roles in sports complexes, community centres, botanical gardens and cultural institutions. Graduates may pursue professional certification or further study in public administration, urban planning, environmental management or business.

Why study at University of Vermont

The University of Vermont offers strong connections to the region’s parks, outdoor recreation industry and conservation organisations, providing abundant opportunities for fieldwork, internships and employer partnerships. Its location near Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains supports practical learning in varied landscapes and seasons, from waterfront and urban park settings to managed natural areas.

Students benefit from interdisciplinary resources across campus — including environmental science, business and public policy — which complement facility management training with sustainability, finance and governance perspectives. Small class sizes, hands‑on labs and project placements help students develop the technical and leadership skills employers seek in parks and recreation facility professionals.