This course is an overview of the outdoor recreation industry and profession with emphasis on history of outdoor recreation, managing outdoor recreation, current outdoor recreation trends, public/private outdoor recreation providers, and individual, communal and societal benefits of outdoor recreation. This course highlights the breadth and diversity of the outdoor recreation industry and emphasizes the contributions and outcomes associated with outdoor recreation participation. 

As part of the professional semester during the fall of their junior year, students will obtain three outdoor recreation related certification.  These certifications will be professional in nature, be recognized by a national or international entity (e.g. SOLO, ACA, NOLS), provide a skill recognized as relevant to the outdoor recreation field, and provide an opportunity for the student to be more marketable upon graduation.  Trainings can include, but are not limited to: swiftwater rescue, Leave No Trace, WFA, WFR, rock climbing instructor, trip leader, canoe/kayak instructor, etc. 

This course will explore the obstacles and opportunities of using ecotourism and agritourism to contribute to rural economic development. Examples of successful ecotourism projects both domestically and internationally will be presented with an emphasis on the role of National Parks as tourism destinations. Agritourism efforts in Tennessee will be highlighted and compared to similar efforts in other states and countries. Principles of attracting and managing tourists and park visitors in a sustainable manner also will be covered. 

A philosophy, history, and practical application of outdoor recreation leadership using various adventure and outdoor recreation-based methods and techniques. 

(RE) Prerequisite(s) : ORPM 100, ORPM 150

This course will introduce students to the vertebrate fauna of Tennessee and the Great Smoky Mountains ecoregion. Specifically, students will learn to identify the amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals found regularly in Tennessee parks and wildlife areas. The course will help prepare students interested in taking the Tennessee Natural Resource Officer wildlife identification test as well as prepare park interpreters and managers to identify species found in their parks and educate the public about local species.  

(RE) Prerequisite(s) : ORPM 100, ORPM 150

Parks and protected areas play a vital role in the landscape, both for the people who use them and the natural resources they protect. The desire to maximize public access as well as protection can create conflicting demands on small to moderate sized parks. This course will explore current best practices for the social and ecological design and management of parks and protected areas. Course content will also discuss theoretical foundations of human beings’ relationship to nature and landscapes. 

(RE) Prerequisite(s) : ORPM 100, ORPM 150

Other Instructors: Chancellor, Herbert

Outdoor recreation and natural resources provide a unique context for educating adults and children about environmental issues. This context provides a learning environment that is conducive to promoting environmental awareness and interpretation techniques. This course will include philosophies, concepts, and practical techniques of Environmental Interpretation (EI). This course will introduce students, through lectures, class activities, and projects, to individuals and agencies involved in EI. Students will learn the methods, principles, and philosophies of environmental interpretation in natural systems, with specific emphasis being placed upon the natural resource recreation context. The roles of environmental education and persuasive communication in promoting environmental attitudes and behaviors will also be emphasized.  

Other Instructors: Sharp, Ryan Leonard

This course explores the concepts of access, equity, and participation in outdoor recreation activities. Students will examine the barriers that hinder diverse populations from engaging in outdoor activities, analyze strategies to promote inclusivity, and study the societal and environmental impacts of outdoor recreation. 

An investigation of the methods and techniques of commercial recreation management and its position within the tourism and outdoor recreation industries. Examines customer service and marketing, international markets, human resources and fiscal implications. This course will focus on the foundations for commercial recreation and an introduction to resort management. 

Placement in a recreation agency to lead and develop recreation programs, supervise personnel and facilities, and perform administrative duties. A minimum of 400 clock hours typically covering 10 weeks.  Satisfies Volunteer Core Requirement: (EI)
(RE) Prerequisite(s) : ORPM 415