Parks, Recreation, and Planning

Want a career that helps people live healthier, happier lives, and connects them with the world around them? Explore degrees in Parks, Recreation, and Planning.

Whether you're building trails, designing parks, or leading inclusive public programs, this field blends environmental care with human connection and meaningful leadership.

What is Parks, Recreation, and Planning?

Protect natural resources, and design better places to live, play, and thrive. Parks, Recreation, and Planning is about building strong communities and protecting public spaces, from neighborhood parks to national landmarks. At NAU, you’ll study recreation leadership, conservation, sustainable tourism, and community planning, preparing you to lead in careers that improve both human and environmental well-being.

What you'll study

You’ll learn through a mix of hands-on fieldwork and classroom discussion. Depending on your focus, you might explore:

  • Recreation and park management
  • Sustainable tourism and ecotourism
  • Urban design and environmental planning
  • Geographic informational system
  • Natural resource conservation

You’ll build practical skills through internships, service learning, and outdoor field experiences in Arizona’s forests, park systems, and local communities.

Career possibilities

Graduates shape the way people connect with the world around them. Whether you work in parks, public health, tourism, or urban planning, your career will focus on improving lives and landscapes, often at the same time. Graduates with degrees in Parks, Recreation, and Planning pursue job titles like:

  • Park ranger
  • Recreation coordinator
  • Tourism manager
  • City planner
  • Environmental educator
  • Facility manager
  • Camp director

Parks, Recreation, and Planning degrees at NAU

Explore degrees in recreation management, city and regional planning, tourism, and more. NAU’s programs prepare you to lead people, shape places, and protect public lands.

Find your Parks, Recreation, and Planning degree

FAQs: Parks, Recreation, and Planning degrees

Can I work in a city, or is this just for nature lovers?

Both! This field is about building better communities, whether that’s managing a city park, planning bike-friendly streets, or leading youth recreation programs.

What jobs can I get with a degree in Wildland Fire Sciences?

You’ll be ready for careers in fire ecology, prevention, and wildland firefighting. These roles are essential for protecting forests, public lands, and communities across the West.

Can I work for a national park?

Yes! Many grads work with the National Park Service, Arizona State Parks, or the US Forest Service in roles like outdoor program manager, park ranger, or interpretive guide.

Are there internships or certifications built into the program?

Yes! You’ll gain real credentials, like Wilderness First Aid or Leave No Trace, and take part in internships with city departments, tourism offices, or federal land agencies.

Why study Parks, Recreation, and Planning at NAU?

NAU is surrounded by national forests, parks, and vibrant communities, giving you a living lab to explore. Plus, strong partnerships with agencies across Arizona give you access to internships, research, and career connections that make your degree count from day one.