Master of Science: Concentration in Recreation and Tourism Studies

Graduate Admission

Students must have an overall grade point average (GPA) of 2.80, an undergraduate major GPA of 3.00, and a total score of at least 900 on the verbal and quantitative components of the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) for admission to regular status. Students must also possess computer literacy skills.

Graduate students can enroll full-time in an Accelerated 12 month Campus Coursework Plan where they can finish all their major content courses in one year. Once these courses are completed, the student can select his or her choice of a thesis, research paper, or internship. All three options can be completed with faculty supervision off-campus.

Distance Learning

Old Dominion University is a leader in distance learning programs (http://dl.odu.edu/). The RTS Distance Learning Graduate Program is designed for the working professional, local or out of state. The program offers a tailored format to prepare professionals for career advancement in the Recreation and Tourism industry. Graduate faulty are available for advising via email or over the phone. The curriculum is flexible without compromising the integrity of the educational process. The primary tools used for the RTS Distance Learning Program are Blackboard (http://blackboard.odu.edu), iTunes/iTunes University: Old Dominion University (www.itunes.com), and LEO Online (https://www.leoonline.odu.edu/plsql/web/twbkwbis.P_GenMenu?name=homepage). In addition, we use other basic computer programs (e.g., PowerPoint).

Program Mission

The mission of the Recreation and Tourism Studies (RTS) Program is to facilitate the professional preparation of students interested in pursuing and/or continuing a career in recreation and tourism management or therapeutic recreation. Both undergraduate and graduate curricula are offered to encourage students toward leadership opportunities in direct service, supervision, and administration. The RTS Program fosters a learning environment of quality instruction, applied research and community service that stimulates the pursuit of knowledge and truth through opportunity and scholarship.

Graduation

Students must: (1) maintain a GPA of 3.00 overall; (2) satisfy all course competencies; (3) pass a comprehensive examination, (4) complete a thesis, or internship; and (5) facilitate an exit interview with the department Chair. Upon completion of the above, each student major will be awarded the Master of Science degree.

For further information contact:
Dr. Eddie Hill 
Recreation and Tourism Studies Graduate Program Coordinator
757-683-4881
e-mail: ehill@odu.edu