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California State University, Chico

Recreation, Hospitality, and Parks Management Department

Welcome to Recreation, Hospitality, and Parks Management (RHPM) at California State University, Chico! Founded in 1962, we are one of California’s oldest programs in recreation, hospitality, and parks management.

Explore Our Programs

  • group of students around a map

    Recreation, Hospitality, and Parks Management BS

    Turn your love of adventure and fun into your future profession. Whether you see yourself managing resorts, crafting unforgettable music festivals, or working as a guardian of public lands, a Recreation, Hospitality, and Parks Management degree is your ticket to a fulfilling career.

  • Student explores Lassen Volcanic National Park during an Adventure Outings trip.

    Recreation, Hospitality, and Parks Management Minor

    A minor in recreation, hospitality, and parks management is your path to endless career possibilities. Help enhance people's lives through recreational opportunities, engaging activities for all ages, and community events.

  • Three students hike the trail to Yosemite Falls.

    Tourism Minor

    Take your career wherever you want with a minor in tourism. One of the fastest-growing industries in the world, generating approximately $9.9 trillion worldwide, it offers incredible potential for your future success.

Student Resources

  • CME Student Success Team

    Providing support for every CME student from orientation through graduation. We foster students' well-being, learning, and sense of belonging.

  • Clubs and Organizations

    Explore a variety of student clubs and organizations within the College of CME. Join a club to make friends and develop professional connections.

About Us

  • Three students going over plans during a special event planning and operations class mock wedding project.

    Professional Accreditation

    CSU, Chico's Department of Recreation, Hospitality, and Parks Management is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Related Professions (COAPRT).

  • A group of students dining at a local restaurant

    Internships

    An internship is required for a Bachelor of Science degree from the Department of Recreation, Hospitality, and Parks Management. The internship meets the accreditation requirements of the Council on Accreditation of Parks, Recreation, Tourism and Related Professions (COAPRT).

  • Half Dome Yosemite National Park

    Recreation, Hospitality, and Parks Society

    RHAPS is the student organization for all students studying in our department. This is a student-run organization that hosts many meetings, events, and extracurricular activities throughout the academic year.

Why Study RHPM?

What can you do with a degree in RHPM? You can improve lives! The Recreation, Hospitality, and Parks Management BS degree has three options to choose from. Explore the course you'll take using the links below.

  • Resort and Lodging Management graduates operate hotels, resorts, restaurants, and clubs, providing places where people can escape from their daily routines.
  • Event Management graduates plan events, conventions, and festivals, where people celebrate, learn, network, and relax.
  • Parks and Recreation Management graduates are stewards of our natural and cultural resources, as managers of parks, heritage, and natural resources.

Many graduates become entrepreneurs, starting tourism businesses and creating memorable experiences. They also manage non-profit organizations, serving others in our diverse society.

Group of students on a field trip

In the Spotlight - Jesse Engebretson

One of our very own members of the RHPM department, Jesse Engebretson has written an article for Science Direct titled, "Perceptions of honey bee management information sources among backyard and sideliner beekeepers in the United States." We are proud of the hard work, and dedication he has shown in representing our department.