Thursday, August 14, 2008

RPTA 180: Foundations of Commercial Recreation


Commercial Recreation (and the related industries of Hospitality and Tourism) is how the department teaches recreation management for private, for-profit companies and corporations. Unlike courses in government, community or recreation resource (outdoor recreation), commercial recreation courses involve several aspects of aggressive business marketing and profit-making strategies. Agencies that fall in this category include resorts, hotels, theme parks, casinos, restaurants, cruise lines, event planning companies, airlines, waterparks, and travel agencies. Tourism is the fastest growing sector of commercial recreation, but also the most complicated. Hospitality includes lodging and restaurants, and is often paired with the casino industry to make destination properties in locations like Las Vegas and Macau. Retail is also more frequently using commercial recreation techniques to turn shopping centers into full-scale destinations with lodgning facilities and a tourist appeal.
Official Course Description: Overview of the historical and philosophical foundations of the commercial recreation field. Identification of providers of commercial recreation goods and services. Analyzes current functions and trends in the operation of commercial leisure enterprises.This course is the prerequisite for RPTA 185.RPTA 180 is an introductory course to other commercial recreation courses, and should be taken as early as possible. This course is offered in the fall only.
Photo Credit: G. B. C. Shaw

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