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Public Service and Public Policy (Parks and Recreation Management) ,BS

Public Service and Public Policy (Parks and Recreation Management), BS

Academic programs / Undergraduate degrees / Public Service and Public Policy (Parks and Recreation Management)

Event Planning, Forestry, Leisure, Management, Outdoor, Parks, Policy, Public Administration, Tourism, Urban Studies, city, federal government, government, social

ASU is no longer accepting new students to this program. Interested students should apply to the Public Service and Public Policy, BS program.


Communities need people like you who are passionate about learning to improve public spaces through effective government and policy. This program, located at ASU's Downtown Phoenix campus, features coursework that strategically prepares you for an in-demand leadership career in local and state venues.
Program description ▲

The School of Public Affairs offers a Bachelor of Science in public service and public policy with a concentration in parks and recreation management.

Leisure and quality of life are an essential part of U.S. society. This program provides students a transdisciplinary education in the management of parks, protected areas and community-based recreation services.

The BS program in public service and public policy includes comprehensive coverage of topics in public policy, public leadership and management. Applications and examples encompass a wide variety of policy topics and management approaches.

This program examines the public sector and addresses the challenges facing the public in a practical way. It distinctly enables students to study public service, policy and administration with a focus on professional preparation for a career. The major is also well suited to students interested in pursuing graduate education in law, public administration, public policy, and other areas focused on public affairs and the common good.

This major is eligible for the Western Undergraduate Exchange program at the following location: Downtown Phoenix campus. Students from Western states who select this major and campus may be eligible for reduced nonresident tuition at a rate of 150% of Arizona resident tuition plus all applicable fees. Students should click the link for more information and eligibility requirements of the WUE program.

At a glance ▲
  • Second language requirement: No
  • STEM-OPT extension eligible: No
  • First required math course: MAT 142 - College Mathematics
  • Math intensity: Generalprogram math intensity general

Curriculum ▲

Concurrent program options▲
Students pursuing concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”) earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with their academic advisors, students can create their own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.
Accelerated program options▲
This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years. It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree with:

Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.

Admission requirements ▲

General university admission requirements:

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
First-year | Transfer | International | Readmission

Tuition information▲
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Transfer options▲

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use MyPath2ASU® to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and they help students save time and money in their college journey.

Global opportunities▲
Global experience

Global Education programs at some of the world's most renowned and pristine parks, wildlife reserves, and other recreational facilities like forests, reefs and deserts provide students with insight as to how other countries use policy to manage their natural resources. Studying abroad allows students to tailor their experience to their particular interests and skill sets, with more than 300 programs available.

Career opportunities▲

The degree in public service and public policy is primarily for individuals working in or interested in working in the public sector. The skills and knowledge graduates acquire allow them to successfully function in many other types of organizations; however, the emphasis is on public organizations. They are prepared for work in nonprofit organizations and in the private sector at the interface of public affairs and private enterprise.

Graduates are prepared for entry- and midlevel supervisory and managerial positions in city, county, state and federal agencies. For those who already have work experience, the degree provides further opportunity for promotion.
Contact information▲

School of Public Affairs | UCENT 400
spa@asu.edu
602-496-0450

What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE)?
The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) is a program in which residents of western states (other than Arizona) may be eligible for reduced nonresident tuition. See more information and eligibility requirements on the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program.

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