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October 29, 2012
ULM announces new concentration in sport, fitness, and recreation management
The University of Louisiana at Monroe Department of Kinesiology has launched a new online concentration for a Master of Science degree in sport, fitness and recreation management.
The new degree combines the science of sport, fitness, and recreation with the practices of business management.
It is designed to appeal to those who wish to work in the business side of sport, fitness and recreation, and not as an instructor or coach.
“Sport, fitness, and recreation have always been ‘big business’ in America, but today, the growth of this industry is phenomenal," says Dr. Ken Alford, head of kinesiology at ULM.
“There is a proliferation of professional sports, fitness centers, country clubs, and other businesses that target sport or recreation. All of these need professionals to effectively deliver the benefits of sport, fitness and recreation through safe and efficient management, and to develop the necessary facilities and services. This is an industry with a wealth of opportunity for employment right on our doorstep.”
The careers available in the field of sport, fitness and recreation management are diverse.
Opportunities include program or facility directors, marketing and promotions, corporate sales, sporting goods, community programs, athletic directors and business managers, and sport or recreation management.
Combined with the worldwide growth and influence of sports on society, new opportunities continue to be created in a variety of settings.
“Because we are a university program, we are also confident our students will be placed in prestigious internships where they will gain expert guidance and develop successful networks,” continued Alford. “Our degree will create qualified professionals with both business skills and the skills unique to the sport, fitness and recreation industry.”
Dr. Matt Lovett, assistant professor of kinesiology at ULM, was instrumental in the development of this new concentration.
“As the interest in sport, fitness and recreation continues to grow in this country on both the professional and amateur levels, so too does the demand for competent and informed professionals who can properly lead and make informed decisions on the management side of the organization,” said Lovett.
“Such programs—especially on the graduate level—have risen dramatically in recent years.”
The new concentration is currently available to all students.
For more information please contact Dr. Ken Alford at 318-342-1306 or alford@ulm.edu
Students may also contact the ULM Graduate School at gradadmissions@ulm.edu or 318-342-1036.
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