Outdoor Recreation Major
With this major you will focus on different aspects of the outdoor recreation/education field. Outdoor leadership, natural resource recreation management, camp management and environmental and cultural interpretation are designated concentrations in this major.
Careers in Outdoor Recreation
- Outdoor leader in a variety of agencies from Outward Bound, to campus outdoor programs, to camps
- Camp director
- State or national park manager
- Outdoor educator or interpretation specialist with nature centers, parks and other environmental agencies
What Will I Learn?
- Gain confidence in leadership situations
- Knowledge, skill, techniques, policies and procedures related to outdoor recreation activities
- Apply models and theories of adventure, education and leadership
Outdoor Recreation Concentration Options
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Special Features
- Home to the
- Direct credit agreement with the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS)
- Outdoor education at Raquette Lake in the Adirondacks
- Nationally and internationally recognized faculty committed to students
“I wanted to be outside. Then I looked into SUNY Cortland and found out I could get
a degree in it. I could major in outside!”
– Nate Farrington, outdoor recreation major
Get involved
College is more than a classroom. Enhance your experience with these opportunities:
- International study
- Capstone internship semester and numerous other experiential learning opportunities
Student Clubs and Activities
- Inclusive Recreation Club
- Outdoor Pursuits
Honor Societies
Rho Phi Lambda
Next Steps
Contact Us
Office: Professional Studies Building, Room 1212
Phone: 607-753-4941
Fax: 607-753-5982
Fast Facts
- High employment rate (more than 95 percent) of graduates
- SUNY Cortland operates the longest-running and most comprehensive recreation program in New York State.
- The College historically has been one of only three U.S. colleges of universities with national accreditation in all four of its recreation majors.
Type of Degree
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
Credit Hours: 121
Excellence
We recognize excellence in our students with awards and scholarships.
- Marcia K. Carlson Award
- John A. “Jack” MacPhee Award
- Ralph S. Mauro Award
- Harlan “Gold” Metcalf Award
See all scholarship opportunities