The M.S. (online, non-thesis) is offered as an entirely online graduate degree program with an emphasis on the student who is already a practitioner in the field. The degree is focused on giving the student a solid foundation of the conceptual underpinnings of the field while also developing the student's practical administrative and management skills. The M.S. (thesis) places greater emphasis on research design and methodology and requires a thesis representing an original contribution to scholarship. This degree is designed for people planning to undertake doctoral study, research-related positions in their chosen profession or an administrative position in a park, recreation and/or tourism agency.<br><br>Our M.S. programs are designed with an emphasis on innovation, creativity, advanced practice and entrepreneurship to help you choose the learning path that best fits your career aspirations. If you are a practitioner in the field, online program options provide you with the skills to lead and manage parks, recreation, and tourism management related agencies. If you are planning to undertake doctoral study or want to work in leadership positions that require research skills in your profession, our on-campus, thesis-based M.S. places greater emphasis on research design and methodology.<br><br>The Ph.D. program in parks, recreation and tourism management is based on the student's grasp of recreation subject matter, competency to plan and conduct research, and the ability to use written and oral communication effectively and professionally. The doctoral degree is offered online and on campus. A concentration in recreational therapy is available.