Program Contact
John Lisco  724-738-2596

The online Master of Science in Park and Resource Management consists of 24 credits of coursework plus a 6-credit internship, for a total of 30 credits. Graduate study in Park and Resource Management combined with current work experience in the field offer excellent preparation for professionals interested in leading others who have dedicated their careers to protecting and preserving America’s parks and other natural and historical areas.

The program is perfect for currently employed professionals in park and resource management who are interested in enrolling as degree-seeking students at the graduate level. Courses are taught via the Internet exclusively. For this reason, program candidates must have access to a high speed internet connection.

The program can be completed in two calendar years. Students may begin the MS program in either fall or spring semester. Two courses are offered each semester fall and spring. Internships are usually completed in the summer.

Some states, including Pennsylvania, offer certification through the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE). While certification is not required; it can advance your career. In Pennsylvania, the requirements include, but are not limited to: a passing score on the Environmental Literacy Test, work portfolio, and attendance at a EE Certification Workshop. Requirements vary by state, so please visit the NAAEE state affiliate where you work.   

Program Learning Outcomes

1. Environmental Literacy
   1. Students will demonstrate an increased awareness of and connection to the environment.
   2. Students will demonstrate knowledge of contemporary environmental issues.
   3. Students will work individually and in groups to evaluate solutions to contemporary social-ecological issues.
2. Advancement in Natural Resource Management and Leadership
   1. Students will demonstrate the ability to perform duties at a professional level including but not limited to administrative skills, organizing public and professional events, and management of daily operations.
   2. Students will demonstrate proficiency in grant writing.
   3. Students will demonstrate proficiency in policy development and long-term planning by reviewing a management plan.
3. Research, Assessment and Evaluation
   1. Students will observe and critique a program.
   2. Students will create a research proposal for a relevant social science issue in park resource management and/or environmental education.
   3. Students will demonstrate an understanding of the role of social science research in park resource management and environmental education.
4. Stewardship of Natural and Cultural Resources
   1. Students will be able to identify and cite natural resource related laws as pertains to natural and cultural resources.
   2. Students will employ methodologies used to assess ecological and human dimensions of natural and cultural resource management.
   3. Overall employer satisfaction of the student’s understanding of natural and cultural resources 

Related Links

Park and Resource Management, MS Program Page

Parks and Conservation Department Page

Park and Resource Management Fact Sheet

Professional Licensure/Certification Page

Curriculum Guide

Course List

Code	Title	Hours
PCRM 654	Natural and Cultural Resources Law	3
PCRM 655	Social Science Research Methods in Conservation	3
PCRM 656	Environmental Issues	3
PCRM 657	Environmental Grant Writing	3
PCRM 658	Environmental Education	3
PCRM 675	Recreation Resources Management	3
PCRM 686	Management Strategy in Parks and Recreation	3
PCRM 750	Parks and Recreation/Environmental Education Internship	6
Select Free Elective		3
Total Hours		30

Important Curriculum Guide Notes

This Curriculum Guide is provided to help SRU students and prospective students better understand their intended major curriculum. Enrolled SRU students should note that the My Rock Audit may place already-earned and/or in progress courses in different, yet valid, curriculum categories. Enrolled SRU students should use the My Rock Audit Report and materials and information provided by their faculty advisers to ensure accurate progress towards degree completion. The information on this guide is current as of the date listed. Students are responsible for curriculum requirements at the time of enrollment at the University.

PASSHE - Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education Institutions

Major Code: 966D