Preparing for the Future

All undergraduate students in the Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management are required to complete a 400-hour (10-week) internship before graduation. Many students complete additional internships to gain experience in different areas of the field. Internships give students hands-on experience in program development, administration, supervision and facility operations. Students apply classroom knowledge, build professional connections and develop skills that prepare them for their careers.

Before their internships, students complete a professional development course focused on resume and cover letter writing, interviewing skills and professional networking. Students can complete their internships during the fall, spring or summer semester with private companies, nonprofit organizations or government agencies.

Where Our Students Intern

Students gain experience with professional sports organizations, national parks, tourism businesses and community recreation programs.

Our students put their knowledge into practice through internships with organizations including:

Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management

• National Park Service — Yellowstone National Park
• National Park Service — Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
• Disney Resorts
• YMCA of the Triangle
• Twiddy & Company
• Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau

Sport Management

• Carolina Hurricanes
• Atlanta Falcons
• New England Patriots
• National Baseball Hall of Fame
• Durham Bulls
• Carolina Panthers

Career Advising and Professional Engagement

The College of Natural Resources’ Career Advising and Professional Engagement Center helps students explore internship opportunities, connect with employers and prepare for their careers.