Graduate students in the Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management apply through NC State’s Graduate School. Department faculty review applications and make recommendations for admission.

For on-campus, research-based graduate programs, students must identify a faculty advisor whose research interests align with their own. Before applying, explore our faculty research and faculty experts to find and connect with potential advisors.

Deadlines

• Jan. 15: Fall admission for on-campus, research-based master’s and doctoral programs in parks, recreation and tourism management.
• March 30: Master of Natural Resources, technical option.
• May 15: Fall admission for the online professional master’s program in parks, recreation and tourism management.
• June 15: Sport and Entertainment Venue Management Graduate Certificate.

Admission Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Academic transcripts: Official transcripts confirming completion of an undergraduate degree.
2. GPA: Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0.
3. Professional experience: At least two years of full-time professional experience after earning an undergraduate degree or completion of six or more graduate credit hours through the Sport and Entertainment Venue Management (SEVM) program, Non-Degree Studies (NDS) or other graduate-level coursework.
4. Letters of recommendation: Three professional recommendations, preferably including one academic reference. Letters should provide specific examples of leadership, teamwork, communication, intellectual ability and interpersonal skills, as well as the applicant’s potential for graduate-level study.
5. Personal statement: A statement describing experiences that influenced the decision to pursue the degree, professional goals and how the program supports those goals. Applicants with a GPA below 3.0 should explain their academic performance and demonstrate their readiness for graduate study.

Application Guidelines

Submit the following materials with your application:

1. Personal statement (one to two pages): Describe your professional interests, career goals and how the Master of Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Sport Management (MPRTSM) will help you achieve them. We recommend outlining your goals at the beginning of your statement.
2. Resume (one to two pages): Highlight your education, professional experience and relevant accomplishments.

International Applicants

We welcome graduate students from around the world. International applicants must also meet additional requirements established by the NC State Graduate School:

Additional materials to include with your application include:

1. English proficiency: A minimum TOEFL iBT score of 80, with scores no more than two years old. See Section O: English Proficiency Requirements in the Graduate Handbook for minimum section scores.
2. Visa and financial documentation: Submit a Visa Clearance Form and Certificate of Financial Responsibility before a final admission decision can be made
   
   

Have questions or need more information?

Contact our Graduate Program Associate Anju Singh at [email protected]u or call 919-513-0350.