Areas of Research

With an internationally recognized faculty, the Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management is committed to being a leader in research. Our faculty’s academic experience, diverse expertise and creative insights not only lead to healthier, more sustainable communities but also serve as a world-class environment for students interested in gaining both theoretical and practical experience in their chosen fields.

Sustainable Tourism

We work to foster positive tourism development that conserves natural resources, promotes socio-cultural integrity and stimulates economic development.

Bike Riding - Areas of Research - Parks Recreation and Tourism Management NC State

Community Health and Well-being

We examine the symbiotic relationship between humans and nature as it relates to active recreation, leisure behavior and youth development.

Geospatial Project - Areas of Research -Parks Recreation and Tourism Management NC State

Geoanalytics for People, Places and Nature

We use spatial modeling and visualization tools to examine the role that space and time play in the management of outdoor spaces and the creation of recreational opportunities.

Lighthouse Next to a House - Areas of Research -Parks Recreation and Tourism Management NC State

Community Capacity and Resilience

We help communities worldwide plan for and respond to natural disasters, climate change and other environmental challenges.

Kids Working Together - Areas of Research - Parks Recreation and Tourism Management NC State

Environmental Education and Communication

We aim to ensure everyday people understand the science behind complex environmental challenges so they can make better choices and help work toward solutions.

Equity and Environmental Justice

We seek to document and address the disproportionate environmental and health hazards faced by marginalized communities.

Outdoor Recreation

We examine global connections between recreation, conservation, human health and quality of life.

Protected Areas and Landscapes

We collaborate with a variety of partners to understand and enhance priority issues related to protected areas policy, planning and management

Sport and Society

We study how sport programs and events can be improved to promote physical activity and community development.

Faculty member Tal Ben-Horin and graduate student Zakir Bulmer prepare their gear for a scuba diving excursion

October 08, 2024

NC State on the Coast

On a breezy September day, doctoral student Zakir Bulmer sits on the edge of a boat on the Pamlico Sound and allows himself to fall backwards into the water. He’s spending the day scuba diving at different sites across the sound with his advisor, Tal Ben-Horin, an assistant professor in the Department of Clinical Sciences. …

October 02, 2024

What Climate Change Means for Tourism

Tourism-dependent communities must take action to become more resilient to climate change if they want to maintain visitors, according to NC State professor Erin Seekamp.

May 03, 2024

Birdwatching can help students improve mental health, reduce distress

A new study finds people who have nature-based experiences report better well-being and lower psychological distress than those who do not. Birdwatching in particular yielded promising results, with higher gains in subjective well-being and more reduction in distress than more generic nature exposure, such as walks. Because birdwatching is an easily accessible activity, the results…