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Interested in PRT?

We know you've got questions and we're here to help

Whether you're just learning about Parks, Recreation, and Tourism or trying to figure out graduation we're here to help guide you through your path. For your convenience, you will find the most common questions we are asked. If you still have questions, please reach out to our academic advisor.

FAQs

How do I apply to this major?

No need to apply. This is an open major so all are welcome. A minimum of MATH 1030, MATH 1050, or MATH 1090 and WRTG 2010 must be completed before enrollment in some PRT core courses. A minimum GPA of 2.5 is required for internship approval and graduation. All PRT courses must be passed with a C- or better to earn credit toward the major.

How do I declare Parks, Recreation, and Tourism as my major?

Review our degree options here https://health.utah.edu/parks-recreation-tourism/degrees/undergraduate  and then set a meeting with the PRT academic advisor - https://health.utah.edu/student-success/advisors

Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts – What is the difference? What is better?

A Bachelor of Science requires two upper division quantitative courses (QI s) such as evaluation techniques, financial management, and business analysis, and each of these is very valuable in parks, recreation, and tourism careers. The QI coursework required for a Bachelor of Science is included in the PRT department core.

A Bachelor of Arts requires courses in foreign language. Knowing a second language is an asset in today’s increasingly global world. Your choice of Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts depends on your professional goals. Both are valuable and worthwhile.

Which classes transfer?

Most general education coursework transfers seamlessly from other in-state colleges and universities. For transfer credits from out of state institutions, set a meeting with the PRT academic advisor to discuss in more detail. Either way, please see this valuable resource https://advising.utah.edu/transfer/ and then also set a meeting with the PRT academic advisor https://health.utah.edu/student-success/advisors .

All PRT core classes and emphasis coursework must be completed at the University of Utah.

I’m at the community college, what classes should I take to prepare for the transfer and the major?

It depends on your area of interest. You would do well to complete an associate degree that includes business, economics, marketing, or management courses if you are interested in Commercial, Community, & Sport ManagementSustainable Tourism & Hospitality Management.

Hard sciences are recommended for those interested in Outdoor Recreation Studies.

What classes should I take?

All requirements are listed on the degree plans under the emphasis areas. When selecting a course, consider the semester in which the course is offered and the pre-requisites for each course. It is highly recommended that students meet with the PRT academic advisor each semester to complete an efficient semester-by-semester plan for program completion and to track progress.

What is a degree plan and where can I get one?

A degree plan lists the courses required to earn a Bachelor degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism. Degree plans are specific to the emphasis and specialization options within the PRT major.

Emphasis areas:

What is a Degree Audit?

Your Degree Audit is a record of your academic history available to you in the Campus Information System (CIS). Your Degree Audit and your degree plan are essential in tracking your progress and planning an efficient semester-by-semester plan for program completion.

How do I generate a Degree Audit?

  1. Directions here - https://degreeaudit.utah.edu/audits.php

How long will this major take to complete?

Among other requirements, a minimum of 122 credits is required to graduate from the University of Utah. This does not guarantee that course requirements have been met for the major. The credit requirement for PRT emphasis areas is 66 credits.

With an efficient plan for completion and approximately 12-15 credits per semester, the major could be completed in 4-5 semesters, not including general education and bachelor’s degree requirements.

What is my catalog year?

The catalog year is the academic year that you declared PRT as your major and began taking PRT classes. Occasionally, requirements are updated. You are held responsible for the requirements for your catalog year unless courses are no longer offered. In that case, substitutions will be made so that content material is not lost.

What classes are offered online?

Please see the PRT class schedule. Each semester, more and more courses are being offered online. If you are interested in completing our online degree in Sustainable Tourism and Hospitality Management, consult this page https://online.utah.edu/ug-programs/index.php and then set a meeting with the PRT academic advisor - https://health.utah.edu/student-success/advisors

Can I minor in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism?

Yes. The PRT minor requires a total of 18 credits. Please contact the PRT academic advisor for more information.

Do you offer scholarships?

Scholarships are awarded each spring to PRT majors and may be used the following catalog year (fall-spring semesters). For more details see the Scholarship page.

Recommended Online Resources

Still have questions?

Reach out to your advisor or our director.

Eric Gradner

Undergraduate Advisor

Eric Gardner

Senior Academic Advisor, Parks, Recreation & Tourism

 

Phone: 801-585-0832

Email: eric.gardner@utah.edu

Jim Sibthorp

Graduate Advisor

Jim Sibthorp, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Parks, Recreation & Tourism

 

Phone: 801-581-5940

Email: Jim.Sibthorp@health.utah.edu

Kelly Bricker

Program Director

Dorothy L. Schmalz, Ph.D.

Department Chair, Parks, Recreation & Tourism

 

Phone: 801-581-8542

Email: d.schmalz@health.utah.edu

Online ST&HM Program

Preston Tanner

Online Program Coordinator

Phone: 801-587-7357
Email: preston.tanner@utah.edu