RCPT 470: Internship in Recreation, Parks and Tourism
Prerequisites: A minimum 2.0 grade point average in overall work; RCPT 469.
Credit Hours: (12)
Instructional Method: 40 hours per week for 14 weeks, 560 hours total
Note(s): Applied Learning designated course.
In addition, student must be in the process or have completed the courses within his/her
concentration, and must have permission of the chairperson. Provides maximum opportunity
to participate in professional laboratory experiences as a recreation professional.
Detailed Description of Course Content
The specific application of knowledge, understanding, and skills obtained in the classroom to a practical setting (i.e., hospital, rehabilitation center, public park and recreation department, conference center, resort hotel, senior center, health spa, camp, etc.) under the supervision of a qualified and/or certified recreation or therapeutic recreation specialist. In addition, to the practical experience in the specific setting, each student is required to complete a special project that will be of assistance and value to the agency (i.e., new supply and equipment inventory program, a public relation tool, a leisure resource file, etc.). When possible, the faculty supervisor visits the student two or more times during the experience.
Topics considered during the internship are in association with the general goals and objectives of the agency and the University/Department. Specific topics are in association with the concentration the student is pursuing and the type of agency.
Detailed Description of Conduct of the Course
The student’s major advisor acts as a facilitator for student placement in cooperation with the instructor in RCPT 413 (Professional Issues in Recreation, Parks, and Tourism) and the internship supervisor; however, the primary responsibility is for the student to secure the internship placement. The conduct of the course as related to the university supervisor and the agency supervisor is outlined in specific details in the Department Student Manual.
Student Learning Outcomes
The goals and objectives of the course from a general perspective are found in the Department Student Manual. Specifically, to apply knowledge and understanding obtained in the classroom to a practical situation. This may include the following, but is not limited to:
1. Ability to apply programming concepts, including conceptualization, planning, implementation,
and evaluation.
2. Ability to implement a variety of individual and group techniques, including intervention,
instruction, leadership and supervision.
3. Ability to utilize effectively the tools of communication, including both verbal
and nonverbal techniques.
4. Ability to implement principles and procedures related to operation and care of
resources, areas, and facilities.
Assessment Measures
Assessment of the student's success in the course is based on agency supervisor and university/department internship supervisor evaluation. The specific grade is recorded as Pass/Fail.
Review and Approval
Reviewed February 2005 Edward Udd, Chair
Revised April, 2009
Revised November, 2017
Revised March, 2021
Revised June, 2023