Parks and Outdoor Recreation
Sustainable Master of Business Administration
Use your master's degree to navigate outdoor business ventures
and become a leader in sustainable recreation.
Unity is the recognized leader in sustainability degrees. Our SMBA in Parks and Outdoor Recreation prepares you for impactful roles in managing and enhancing outdoor recreation spaces, businesses, and organizations. Upon graduation from this program, you can look forward to diverse career opportunities from park management and outdoor program development to leadership roles in outdoor recreation companies. You’ll gain essential skills in sustainability, equity, and business, positioning you to lead efforts in protecting natural spaces while promoting outdoor activities that benefit both people and the environment.
In the SMBA in Parks and Outdoor Recreation program you'll learn to:
- Apply sustainable business practices in managing outdoor recreation organizations sustainably
- Design sustainable programs that enhance environmental protection
- Evaluate policies that address equity and access barriers in outdoor recreation
- Measure the impact of parks and outdoor recreation on social, economic, and environmental
Career Outlook
What can I do with a master's in sustainability?
Careers for Parks and Outdoor Recreation graduates.
Project Management Specialist jobs in the U.S., 2022.
Project Management Specialist average pay, 2022.
Estimated U.S. job growth for Project Management Specialist jobs through 2032.
Project Management Specialist jobs in the U.S., 2022.
Project Management Specialist average pay, 2022.
Estimated U.S. job growth for Project Management Specialist jobs through 2032.
*Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Unity Environmental University cannot guarantee employment. Salary data represents averaged earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience.
Examples of online coursework in parks and outdoor recreation:
Ecological Economics
Economic systems influence how society understands its relationship to the environment. You will learn the basic principles of ecological economics, evaluate the framework, and learn to apply its principles to sustainability work.
Introduction to the Outdoor Recreation Industry
This course introduces the basics of the outdoor recreation industry, covering contemporary issues, public policies, service providers, theories, principles, and employment opportunities. Critical discussions and analyses enhance understanding of the field.
Sustainable Management of Outdoor Recreation Agencies
This course delves into management principles for outdoor recreation agencies, with a focus on sustainability. Exploring topics like sustainable marketing, accounting, and financial management, it provides a comprehensive understanding of operational aspects through a sustainability lens.
Degree requirements and courses needed to earn a sustainable master's
The Sustainable MBA in Parks and Outdoor Recreation degree requires 36 credits with a minimum 3.0 GPA. For more requirements, view our full course catalog.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is Parks and Outdoor Recreation?
Parks and Outdoor Recreation is a dynamic field where passion for the outdoors meets sustainable leadership. It's more than just managing green spaces; it's about equipping professionals with a unique blend of business acumen and environmental stewardship.
It involves crafting green solutions, addressing issues of environmental degradation, and ensuring responsible practices in public, private, and not-for-profit sectors. A Parks and Outdoor Recreation SMBA is a journey towards becoming a leader who not only loves nature but actively contributes to its preservation and sustainability. It's a commitment to shaping a greener, more resilient future for outdoor enthusiasts and the planet alike. -
What is a Sustainable Master of Business in Parks and Outdoor Recreation?
The SMBA (Sustainable Master of Business Administration) in Parks and Outdoor Recreation prepares students to become leaders in the sustainable outdoor recreation sector, a growing sector important for its environmental and social benefits. Outdoor recreation can help to improve people's physical and mental health, connect them to nature, foster a sense of community, as well as protect and conserve natural resources. Combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills, students gain a deep understanding of the industry's economics, social and cultural dimensions, environmental impacts, and management practices.
Through coursework, experiential learning, and research, students develop the competencies to apply business principles, manage financial and operational aspects, design and implement sustainable programs, advocate for policies, and think critically about the future of the industry. Graduates are well-positioned for careers in outdoor recreation management, sustainable tourism, adventure tourism, and other related fields, where they can use their skills and knowledge to make a positive impact on the environment and society. -
How is an SMBA different than an MBA?
A Sustainable Master of Business Administration (SMBA) includes the foundational concepts of a Master of Business Administration (MBA), while also integrating principles of environmental and social responsibility to prepare future business leaders to drive long-term economic success that includes ecological resilience and societal well-being.
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What courses will I take to earn a Sustainable Master of Business in Parks and Outdoor Recreation?
SMBA Core: 21 credits
- PROF 515 Ethical Practice and Policy
- SUST 525 Making the Invisible Visible: The ESG Proposition
- SBUS 503 Organizational Behavior and Change Management Strategies
- SBUS 505 Accounting & Finance for Sustainable Solutions
- SUST 515 Leading Sustainable Change
- MKTG 505 Marketing Research
- SBUS 590 Sustainable MBA Capstone I: Planning Green Business Initiatives
Major Program Core: 15 credits
- SBUS 515 Ecological Economics
- RECR 520 Introduction to the Outdoor Recreation Industry
- SUST 650 Sustainable Management of Outdoor Recreation Agencies
- RECR 620 Practical Research Applications in Outdoor Recreation
- SUST 655 Designing Sustainable Outdoor Recreation Experiences
For a better look into your program, view our full course catalog. Then apply online for free to get started.
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How much does it cost to receive an SMBA in Outdoor Parks and Recreation?
Your online education should be affordable and manageable. Thanks to our promise to keep tuition flat through 2030, you won’t be burdened with unexpected increases or fees.
Our team of distance education concierges will work with you through the admissions process to help you plan and pay for your degree. Learn more about the costs here. -
How fast can I finish my online SMBA in Parks and Outdoor Recreation?
The timeframe for completion is up to you! Enroll in 6 credits per term and complete the program in a little over one year. Alternatively, opt for part-time study by taking one course at a time. Whichever path you choose, we’re here to support your educational journey every step of the way. Contact your concierge or advisor to create your personalized plan.
Why Unity for your master's in sustainability degree
Career Focus – Unity ranks in the top 2% of colleges for social mobility according to CollegeNET. Demand for employees with green skills is growing daily, and the sustainability core in every master’s program at Unity means that you’ll graduate with an environmental consciousness applicable to every career path.
Earn While You Learn – Our asynchronous model is designed to provide flexibility, allowing you to balance your studies with professional and personal commitments.
World Renowned Faculty – Learn from faculty who are working in their field, bringing their professional network and real-world insights into the virtual classroom, fostering valuable connections for your future career.
Applied Learning – You’ll be required to engage your local community and environment while completing your master’s degree, giving you practical, hands-on experience while allowing you to translate theoretical knowledge into real-world solutions.
Personalized Support – You can rely on one-on-one professional advising, career support from your first day, unlimited mental health counseling, and more.
Ready to Learn More about the SMBA in Parks and Outdoor Recreation degree?
Fill out the form below to speak with someone at Unity about our Distance Education programs. We look forward to hearing from you!
