Indiana University

What you'll study

This programme blends applied facility management with recreation programming, environmental stewardship and business principles. Core topics typically include facility operations and maintenance, risk and safety management, turf and landscape management, parks design and development, budgeting and financial management for leisure services, human resources and supervisory skills, and customer service for diverse user groups. Students also study law and ethics in parks and recreation, program planning and evaluation, and principles of marketing and community engagement for leisure organisations.

• Technical modules: building systems and maintenance, turfgrass science, pest and landscape management, grounds equipment and safety.
• Management modules: facility planning and design, operations and logistics, budgeting and asset management, risk management and legal issues.
• Recreation and planning: program development, interpretive services, community recreation delivery, inclusive programming and accessibility.
• Capstone and experiential learning: field practicums or internships with parks departments, recreation centres, sports venues or leisure providers, plus a senior project focused on a real-world facility or operations challenge.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a secondary-school qualification or equivalent that demonstrates readiness for university-level study. Typical preparation includes courses in mathematics and English; coursework in science, environmental studies or vocational trades (e.g. horticulture, construction technology) is advantageous. Indiana University considers applicants holistically, so academic transcripts are reviewed alongside personal statements and, where required, references.

Relevant practical experience—such as seasonal work or volunteering with parks, leisure centres, sports clubs or outdoor programmes—is strongly recommended and can strengthen an application. Some programmes may require or recommend a brief interview or documentation of workplace experience for practicum placement; consult the campus admissions pages for details specific to the chosen campus.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles across public, private and nonprofit sectors. Common career paths include park manager or superintendent, recreation or facilities manager, grounds and turf superintendent, operations or maintenance supervisor for arenas and sports complexes, events and venue coordinator, and concessions or guest-services manager. Employers include municipal and state parks departments, campus recreation units, sport and entertainment venues, golf clubs, resorts, conservation organisations and private facilities-management firms.

With experience, graduates may progress to senior operations or director-level posts, consultancy in facilities planning, or specialised roles in sustainability, accessibility and emergency planning. The degree also provides a foundation for related postgraduate study in public administration, landscape architecture, environmental management or business.

Why study at Indiana University

Indiana University offers a programme that emphasises hands-on learning, industry placements and interdisciplinary collaboration. Students benefit from access to campus and regional parks, recreation facilities and research centres, enabling applied projects and internships with municipal agencies and leisure providers in the Indianapolis and Bloomington regions. The curriculum is informed by faculty with professional backgrounds in parks and facility operations and by partnerships that support practicum placements and employer networking.

Support services such as career counselling, internship offices and active alumni networks help students transition into the workforce. The programme’s balance of technical, managerial and community-focused skills prepares graduates to manage modern leisure facilities with an emphasis on safety, sustainability and inclusive user experiences.