Bachelor of Science in Recreation, Parks and Tourism — Outdoor Recreation and Leadership Concentration

Catalog Year 2025-2026

Based on VCCS Curriculum for SOCIAL SCIENCE

Transfer Guidance

Guaranteed Admission Agreement

• By completing a transferable associate degree with a 2.8 GPA, students meet the criteria for guaranteed admission into Radford University and Recreation, Parks and Tourism.

• Earn a transferable associate degree.

• Earn a minimum 2.8 cumulative GPA.

• Be in good standing at the current institution.

• Please visit the TransferVirginia.org portal to explore different majors (Transfer Tools) and Transfer Guides that outline course requirements for specific majors.

Important Links & Dates

• University Transfer Center: https://admissions.radford.edu.

• Admission Application: By March 1 for Priority Fall Admission and November 1 for Priority Spring Admission at https://www.radford.edu/admissions/apply/index.html.

• Financial Aid: https://www.radford.edu/fin-aid.

• FAFSA - Free Application for Federal Student Aid: Priority deadline is March 1; apply online at https://studentaid.gov/.

What Should I Consider When Selecting Courses?

• Create a schedule for all required courses, pay attention to prerequisites and when courses are offered, complete your first math and English courses in your first year. For help, see Transfer Steps and Resource Center at www.TransferVirginia.org.

• Connect with an advisor at your community college and Radford University within your first year. College Connect available in your account at www.TransferVirginia.org.

Is This Degree Right For Me?

• Imagine a career where the outdoors become your office and planning adventures becomes your job.

• You'll earn course credit while kayaking, camping, rock climbing, orienteering, and caving.

• Have fun while building your skills in adventure programming, wilderness first aid, and natural and cultural interpretation.

• Get paid to lead programs through Radford University Outdoors or Radford University Adventure Based Learning Experience (RU ABLE).

What Is The Impact On My Degree Of Work I Have Already Completed?

• Associate Transfer Degree Completion: The completion of the transfer-oriented degree program will satisfy the REAL Curriculum (lower division/general education) requirements. Students will need to complete all other University, college, and departmental requirements in order to obtain the baccalaureate degree from RU.

• Dual Enrollment – Completion of Associate Degree in HS: Students completing the associate degree in high school should apply using the freshman application. If admitted, the student will receive the benefits associated with the transferable associate degree (as noted prior).

• Credit for Prior Learning: AP, IB, and CLEP will be evaluated for credits (based on receipt and evaluation of scores). See https://catalog.radford.edu/content.php?catoid=55&navoid=2617

• Catalog Year: Students will be subject to the catalog in effect at the time of enrollment at RU unless otherwise requested.

Is This College Right For Me?

• Main campus is located in the city of Radford and our Radford University Carilion campus is located in Roanoke. RU is well-known for strong faculty/student bonds, vibrant student life and a commitment to student support.

• Situated in the stunning landscape of southwest Virginia, there are plenty of nearby opportunities to explore the outdoors.

• With 70+ bachelor's degree programs across a variety of disciplines, the classes at Radford are hands-on and designed to help you prepare for your chosen career path.

• Transfer students have the option to live on-campus or off-campus within the local area.

• Over 80% of students receive some form of financial aid.

• 16 Division I teams and 200+ student organizations.

• Learn more about our college at www.TransferVirginia.org.

Did You Know That…

• Completing your Associate transfer degree satisfies all lower division general education requirements and increases the chance of completing your bachelor's degree.

• Exceeding 3 years or 90 credits at your community college means you may have exhausted your financial aid at that college and have limited your future financial aid at Radford University?

What Can I Do With This Degree?

• Explore possible careers, salaries, and job outlook at www.TransferVirginia.org

Program Successes & Highlights

• You can learn and play at Radford University's Selu Conservancy where we have a team's course/low ropes course and access to the Little River.

• Learn to facilitate programs on our high ropes course, dual zipline, and indoor challenge course.

• Explore outdoor adventures in the New River Valley, Blue Ridge Mountains, and Appalachian Trail.

What Are My Chances For Getting Accepted?

• Of students who apply to the university, usually about 80% of the entering transfer class comes from the Virginia Community College System.

• Learn more about applying at www.TransferVirginia.org

Do More With Your Degree!

• Radford University offers a Conservation Law Enforcement minor for those interested in wildlife conservation.

• You will have the opportunity to earn multiple certifications including Wilderness First Responder, Leave No Trace, and challenge course facilitator.

Other Than Classes, Are There Other Program Requirements?

• All students must complete a 9-12 credit hour internship at an approved recreational agency.