Parks, Recreation, and Planning
If you want a career that brings joy, health and sustainability to everyday life, Parks, Recreation, and Planning is for you.
From managing national parks to leading community wellness programs or planning inclusive public spaces, this area blends environmental stewardship with people-centered design and leadership.
What is Parks, Recreation, and Planning?
Protect natural resources. Build healthier, more connected communities. This area of interest focuses on how we interact with public spaces, nature, and community environments. At NAU, these programs explore recreation management, city and regional planning, conservation, tourism, and park operations, with an emphasis on sustainability, inclusivity, and public service. Whether you want to work in outdoor adventure or urban development, you’ll graduate ready to shape the places people live, play, and connect.
What you'll study
Your coursework will blend classroom learning with outdoor experiences that reflect the diverse careers in this field. Depending on your major, you might take courses in:
- Recreation and park management
- Sustainable tourism and ecotourism
- Urban and environmental planning
- Geographic information systems (GIS)
- Natural resource conservation
You’ll gain real-world experience through service learning, internships, and fieldwork in Arizona’s parks, forests, and communities.
Career possibilities
Through your work, you’ll help create healthier communities, protect natural spaces, and make outdoor experiences more accessible to everyone. You’ll be prepared to work in local government, nonprofit organizations, state and national parks, tourism agencies, and private recreation companies.
Parks, Recreation, and Planning degrees offered at NAU
NAU offers degrees in parks and recreation management, city and regional planning, and community engagement, preparing students to lead in both outdoor and urban spaces.
FAQs: Parks, Recreation, and Planning degrees
Can I work in urban areas with this degree?
Absolutely! From working with parks and recreation in a city, to designing walkable neighborhoods, or leading youth programs, this degree is about connecting people to place, urban or rural.
What can I do with a degree in Wildland Fire Sciences from NAU?
Graduates are prepared for careers as wildland firefighters, fire ecologists, prevention specialists, and land management professionals. You’ll gain deep knowledge in fire behavior, suppression techniques, and ecological restoration, making you ready to protect landscapes across the West and beyond.
Can I work for national or state parks with a Parks and Recreation Management degree?
Yes! Many grads go on to work for agencies like the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, or Arizona State Parks in roles like interpretive ranger, park planner, and outdoor program manager.
Are there internships or certifications built into the program?
Yes! Many classes include certification opportunities (like Wilderness First Aid or Leave No Trace), and students often complete internships with city departments, tourism bureaus, or parks agencies.
What makes NAU a great place to study Parks, Recreation, and Planning?
NAU is located near some of the nation’s most iconic natural landmarks, including the Grand Canyon and the Coconino National Forest—the world’s largest contiguous ponderosa pine forest. This unique setting offers students unparalleled opportunities for experiential learning in both outdoor and urban environments. Plus, our strong community partnerships mean you can intern, volunteer, and research across Arizona.
What's next on your trail to NAU?
Find your home at NAU!
Looking for attainable and valuable degree programs? Searching for a community as unique as you are? Wishing for adventure? Explore all your passions at NAU.