Online Program Prepares Graduating Student for Career in Parks and Rec

Micah Dobson, a New York native who now considers Raleigh home, is graduating May 2017 with an online master’s degree in Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Sport Management.

While enrolled in the College of Natural Resources’ (CNR)  online program, Dobson was working full time as a recreation coordinator for the Governor Morehead School for the Blind. He also worked part time as a recreation specialist through a nonprofit organization that caters to individuals with Autism. Dobson needed a program that would fit into his busy work schedule.

“The reason I chose to enroll in NC State Online and Distance Education courses was the flexibility and the phenomenal reputation of the program,” Dobson said. “Having the ability to pace myself as an online learner has made the academic experience so much more enjoyable and gratifying,” he added.

Dobson said cost was also a factor in choosing an online program over a traditional, on-campus program.

“Having the option to attend classes from the comfort of your own home is definitely an ideal situation,” Dobson explained.

As a student in CNR’s Professional Master of Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Sport Management (PRSTM), Dobson said the support he received was “absolutely astounding.”

“Each faculty and staff member made sure that my questions, suggestions and comments were addressed in a timely fashion, which made me appreciate my value as an online student,” Dobson said.

Dobson explained that each course throughout the online PRTSM program did a phenomenal job of preparing him for a career in the Parks and Recreation industry. Some of his favorite courses included PRT 509 – Program Evaluation for Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Sport Organizations and PRT 506 – Organizational Behavior and Leadership in Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Sport. Dobson said these two courses were the most beneficial to him in his current career.

Now that he’s earning his master’s degree, Dobson hopes to be an advocate for leisure activity. Dobson believes leisure activities can help balance a person’s life by improving a person’s physical and emotional health.

“This degree has paved the way for me in providing advice and advocating a positive change by understanding the importance recreation has on everyone’s daily life,” he said.

Are you interested in earning a master’s degree through NC State Online and Distance Education? Explore our master’s degree programs and apply today.

This post was originally published in Online and Distance Education News.