As technology, lifestyles, work patterns, values, and the needs of communities change, the recreation, park and tourism profession is challenged to provide even more meaningful leisure opportunities for all people regardless of age, gender, ability, race, and ethnicity.
The Department of Recreation, Park and Tourism Administration (RPTA) at Western Illinois University is meeting this challenge by preparing professionals for a variety of demanding and rewarding leisure services.
Exciting and rewarding career opportunities are available to RPTA graduates through employment in the following:
All graduate faculty possess terminal degrees in recreation, parks, tourism, or other related fields. Each faculty member has a particular area of expertise ranging from public administration, nonprofit management, therapeutic recreation, outdoor recreation, tourism, facility management, and camp administration. Faculty members are recognized nationally and internationally for their research and publications.