Page

Table of Contents 2

Introduction 3

Mission Statement of the Department 3

Admission Policies 4

Re-Admission Policies 5

Financial Assistance 5

The Graduate Degree 6

MSRA Degree Requirements 6

Concurrent Work Experience 7

Faculty 7

Course Listings 8

Core Requirements 8

Specialization in Therapeutic Recreation 10

Specialization in Recreation Management 12

Graduate Seminar 14

Statistics Requirement 15

Placing Out of Courses 15

Graduate Prerequisites 15

CTRS and TRS Certification 15

CPRP Certification 16

Academic Regulations 17

Typical Schedule 18

Graduate Carrels 19

Final Comprehensive Exams 19

Guidelines for Completion of the Degree Requirements 20

Thesis Guidelines (RECR 393) 21

Relationship Between Thesis and RECR 250/251 23

Independent Study Option Guidelines (RECR 290) 24

Internship Guidelines (RECR 280/281) 24

Applying for Graduation 25

Special Requests 25

Commencement 26

Honor Code 26

Lauth Scholarship 26

Sessoms Scholarship 27

Chisenhall Travel Award 28

Other Financial Assistance 29

Professional Opportunities 30

Appendix A--Form for Independent Study 32

Appendix B-- Graduation Deadlines 33

In addition to this RECR Handbook, students are responsible for the information in the Record of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (most current edition) and the current year's Graduate School Handbook.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-CH) is one of the leading graduate research universities in the United States. UNC-CH was the first state university to admit students over 200 years ago. Presently the University consists of over 23,500 students with 14 colleges and schools offering instruction in more than 100 fields. The University’s website is found under http://www.unc.edu

The Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies (RECR) provides an interdisciplinary approach to the study of leisure and the preparation of specialists to work in the field of recreation and leisure services. The University offers a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Recreation Administration and a Master of Science in Recreation Administration (MSRA). Within the MSRA, students may choose to specialize in either Therapeutic Recreation or Recreation Management. The Department’s website is found under http://www.unc.edu/depts/recreate.

The emphasis in recreation was originally established in 1941 as a program area within the Department of Sociology. The Masters program was begun in 1957. At the undergraduate level, both a major and a minor are offered.

The Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies is a unit of the Division of Social Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences. The Department reflects the role of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as a research university.

The mission of the Department is to pursue excellence in transdisciplinary teaching, scholarship, and service to address evolving recreation and leisure rights, needs, and interests and to promote inclusion and social justice in state, national, and international communities. The Department focuses on graduate professional education, undergraduate professional education, and recreation and leisure education for the university community.

The faculty in the Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies (RECR) are committed to the education of students who can function effectively as professionals and advocate for the value of leisure in their own lives and the lives of the people they serve. The Department faculty encourages the preparation of recreation professionals through an interdisciplinary education and practical work experience. The Department faculty does research to generate new ideas, to contribute to the conceptual base in the study of recreation and leisure, and to raise the level of practice in the delivery of recreation and leisure services. Faculty consider the systematic study of recreation and leisure behavior as a major area of inquiry. RECR is the only major in the College of Arts and Sciences primarily concerned with leisure behavior.

The Department serves North Carolina, the Southeast and beyond through scholarship, continuing education, and direct assistance. The faculty extends existing and newly acquired knowledge-based service, and other resources of the Department, to professionals in leisure services and to the public at large to enhance the quality of life for people in the state and the region.

The program at UNC-CH is structured so that differences exist between the graduate and undergraduate programs. The graduate program is seen as a specialization in one of two areas. Students take coursework that will allow them an in-depth examination through writing and critical thinking of history/philosophy of the field and research methods applied specifically to recreation and leisure services. In addition, each graduate student has an opportunity through coursework or concurrent learning experiences to gain an expertise in particular aspects of either therapeutic recreation or recreation management. Students in the recreation management specialization have latitude in choosing courses in other disciplines to supplement their career goals. The graduate program contributes depth to the undergraduate program that focuses on obtaining information about the breadth of the field. In addition, graduate students are expected to take responsibility for their learning. Thus, the more that a student puts into his/her graduate work, the more he/she is likely to get from it.

The process of being admitted to the graduate program is explained in the graduate school materials but the following two pieces of information may be of interest:

1. A student is permitted, upon the recommendation of the RECR faculty and the approval of the Graduate School, to transfer a maximum of six (6) semester hours of graduate course credit from another graduate institution or from UNC Continuing Studies work taken prior to admission to the graduate program.

2. In the event that a student is not enrolled for a semester (not including summer school), s/he must go through a re-admission process by contacting the RECR Director of Graduate Studies and reapplying to the graduate school. AS A STUDENT, IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO MAKE SURE YOU ARE RE-ADMITTED BY THE APPROPRIATE DEADLINE IF YOU DO NOT COMPLETE THE DEGREE IN A CONTINUOUS FASHION.

When a student has not been enrolled for at least one semester and wishes to re-admit, they must send a completed Application for Re-Admission to the Graduate School. If the student is a North Carolina resident for tuition purposes, a completed Application Relating to Claimed North Carolina Residence for Tuition Purposes (short form) must accompany the Application for Re-Admission. If the student is an international student, a current Financial Certificate must be sent to the International Center.

Graduate students in need of financial aid to meet the costs of attending the University should apply to the Office of Scholarships and Student Aid. In addition to student loans and University fellowships, graduate, research, and teaching assistantships may also be available and include assignments with faculty members in the Department. Other assistantships may be available through the UNC Intramural Office and part-time work is usually available with local agencies such as the Chapel Hill Parks and Recreation Department, Orange County Parks and Recreation Department, and Durham Parks and Recreation Department. Assistantships vary in length and stipend amount as well as job responsibilities. The supervising employer will provide the student with an assistantship description that describes the length of service, the duties to be performed, and the stipend. Before continuing into the second year of graduate study, the student must inform the Director of Graduate Studies of interest in graduate assistantships for the coming year prior to March 1. For any given year, the aim is to award all assistantships for the coming year by April 15.

Assistantships may carry out-of-state tuition waivers, but only a limited number of these waivers are available during any given year. The out-of-state waivers are awarded based on student need, academic ability, and the type of assistantship held. At the time the student is offered the assistantship, he/she will be informed of the recommendation of the faculty to the Dean concerning out-of-state waivers. The out-of-state waiver is valid only for the academic year (fall and spring) in which the student holds the assistantship appointment. The need for out-of-state tuition waivers for the second year of study must be requested in writing to the Director of Graduate Studies prior to March 1.

Students who hold graduate assistantships may be eligible for in-state tuition scholarships (this scholarship includes tuition but not fees). At the time that a student is awarded an assistantship, he or she will be informed of whether this benefit applies. In addition, students holding assistantships may be eligible for health insurance benefits. This possibility will also be discussed at the time the assistantship is offered.

The Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies provides an interdisciplinary approach to the study of leisure and the preparation of specialists to work in the area of recreation and leisure services. The Department offers the Master of Science in Recreation Administration (MSRA) degree at the graduate level. Two areas of specialization, therapeutic recreation and recreation management, are available.

This professional MSRA degree program is a 33-36 credit program (with a minimum of 24 hours taken in residence) that combines both academic and practical experience. For the most part, the program is individually focused with the specific requirements depending upon the student's undergraduate major, work experience, and professional objectives. A minimum of twenty-one credits of coursework in Recreation and Leisure Studies (RECR) is required; the remaining credits may be taken in RECR and/or related areas of study depending upon the student's career goals.

Those students involved in the therapeutic recreation specialization will be required to take most of the remaining credits within the area of therapeutic recreation, particularly if they wish to be certified by the National Council on Therapeutic Recreation Certification.

The MSRA degree typically requires two years (four semesters) to complete the coursework. The recommended normal course load for a full time student is no more than nine (9) credits per semester. The final requirements (thesis, internship, or independent study) may take an additional semester or summer to complete or may be done in conjunction with coursework with the permission of the faculty.

Three options are available for the fulfillment of the degree requirements. In addition to the ten courses which must total 30 semester credits, a student may choose one of the following: (a) a thesis (3 credits), (b) a full-time internship (4 credits) equivalent to 12 weeks of work experience, or (c) two 3 credit projects of independent field study. This choice is based upon the student's interest and past experiences. The decision concerning which option to select is generally made during the first or second semester of coursework at the university in consultation with the student's advisor. The option chosen for fulfilling the final degree requirements is not to be begun until at least 18 credits of the coursework requirements are completed. (Note: Incomplete courses are not completed courses).

Usually those students wishing to do further graduate work or seeking an academic career in Recreation and Leisure Studies elect the thesis option. Only those students experienced in any area of recreation or therapeutic recreation services (experience refers to having at least twelve consecutive months of full-time employment) or currently employed full-time as recreation specialists while pursuing their graduate degree, may undertake the six credit option of independent field study. For students with limited practical experience who seek a practitioner role upon graduation, the internship option is suggested. The internship (along with other coursework) is required for those who seek certification by the National Council on Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) and for those who have not previously completed an appropriate NCTRC internship.

All MSRA candidates are expected to have a concurrent recreation work experience with their coursework. No academic credit is given for this experience, but it is an important expectation. A variety of opportunities, including graduate assistantships, exist through the cooperative efforts of the various recreation services and agencies within the University and the surrounding communities. A concurrent work experience is defined as 10-16 hours of paid or volunteer work each week. A part-time student is expected to have a concurrent work (paid or voluntary) experience in relation to the amount of coursework being taken. The nature of this concurrent work experience and monitoring of the learning experience will be in consultation with the student's advisor.

When a student is accepted for admission, the student will work with the Director of Graduate Studies and an assigned faculty advisor prior to registering on campus. The advisor's role is:

2. To assist the student in answering questions about option selections

4. To assist the student and make appropriate referrals to the Director of Graduate Studies or other University services concerning any problems that may arise.

The faculty at UNC-CH has a wide variety of interests. Students are encouraged to call upon the expertise of all of the faculty during the their time in residence at UNC-CH. Graduate students may be assigned to any of the following professors as their advisor:

Deb Bialeschki, Ph.D., CPRP, Professor. Education: BS (Physical Education) Eastern Illinois University; MA (Recreation, Parks and Leisure Studies) University of Minnesota; Ph.D. (Continuing & Vocational Education) University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Interests: leisure attitudes and behaviors, women’s leisure, outdoor recreation

John Hemingway, Ph.D., Associate Professor Education: BA (Political Science), Grinnell College; MA (Recreation Education & Political Science), University of Iowa; Ph.D. (Political Science), University of Iowa.

Interests: leisure theory, administration, legal issues and risk management

Karla Henderson, Ph.D., CPRP, Professor and Chair. Education: BS (Physical Education) Iowa State University; MS (Counseling) Iowa State University; Ph.D. (Education - Recreation, Parks and Leisure Studies) University of Minnesota.

Interests: women’s leisure, social psychology of leisure, research methodologies

Beth Kivel, Ed.D. Assistant Professor. Education: BA (Journalism), University of Wisconsin-Madison; MS (recreation Administration), San Francisco State University; Ed.D. (Leisure), University of Georgia. Interests: Leisure ideology, youth-at-risk, underserved populations. (On leave during 2001-2002).

Bkivel@email.unc.edu

A student with a Recreation Management specialization will be required to take RECR 260, 265, 365 and possibly RECR 160 depending upon her/his background.

A student with a Therapeutic Recreation specialization will be required to take RECR 176, 177, 160, 275, 376, and 175 depending on her/his background.

The courses in the specialization are referred to as the specialization core. The student may elect additional RECR courses or courses from related departments to total a minimum of 30 credits. The student has three options as the final requirement: to write a thesis, to finish six credits of independent study courses, or to complete an internship. All graduate students must pass a comprehensive examination to fulfill the requirements for the degree.

RECR 210 WORK, LEISURE, AND ORGANIZED RECREATION IN THE UNITED STATES (3). A description and analysis of the scope of organized recreation systems, the evolution of work and leisure attitudes, and the trends of individual recreation behavior.

RECR 230 MANAGING ORGANIZATIONAL BEHAVIOR IN RECREATION SERVICES (3). This course addresses organizational behavior and theory to promote insight into micro and macro issues confronting professionals in organized recreation services.

RECR 250 RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS I (3). An appraisal of current recreation research. Introduction to research techniques and analysis; application of quantitative and qualitative methods to research problems.

RECR 251 RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS II (3). Prerequisite, RECR 250 and a course in statistics. Students review qualitative research methods and apply them to recreation issues. Design and preparation of a research proposal and completion of a mini-research project.

RECR 310 SEMINAR IN LEISURE STUDIES (3). A survey of contemporary views of society and their structures and functions, as they relate to concepts of leisure and recreation behaviors.

RECR 101 WOMEN, WORK, AND LEISURE (3). Implications of the relationship between women and leisure from a lifestyle perspective, and an analysis of the changing role of women and changing leisure concepts from a feminist perspective.

RECR 111 PLAY IN AMERICA (3). An overview of the history and meaning of play in the United States.

RECR 112 LEISURE IN A DIVERSE SOCIETY (3). An analysis of diverse populations and the meaning and impact of leisure in the lives of these individuals. Race, class, gender, culture, age, disability, employment, and sexual orientation related to implications for leisure.

RECR 120 PROGRAM PLANNING FOR RECREATION SERVICES (3). A study of the principles of planning recreation programs and the factors which affect their implementation and functioning.

RECR 130 INTRODUCTION TO GROUP DYNAMICS AND COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP (3). An analysis of the techniques, methods, and motives of group and community leaders. Focus on the roles of organizational structure, personnel policies, and in-service training programs.

RECR 175 INTRODUCTION TO THERAPEUTIC RECREATION SERVICES (3). History and philosophy of therapeutic recreation. A survey of basic counseling/interaction styles, clinical and administrative skills, and interdisciplinary approaches to a variety of clinical settings.

RECR 176 SPECIAL PROGRAM SERVICES IN THERAPEUTIC RECREATION (3). Development of helping skills for the practice of therapeutic recreation emphasizing rationale, techniques, and role responsibilities of therapeutic recreation in the area of leisure education. A 20-hour practicum is required.

RECR 177 DISABLING CONDITIONS AND THE PRACTICE OF THERAPEUTIC RECREATION (3). A study of the relationship between various disabling conditions and the practice of therapeutic recreation. A 24-hour practicum is required.

RECR 160 ADMINISTRATION OF RECREATION SERVICES (3). Analysis of recreation from the standpoint of organization, administration, finances, training, legislation, public relations, and coordination of community resources.

RECR 275 PRINCIPLES AND PROCEDURES IN THERAPEUTIC RECREATION (3). A study of the existing practices and principles utilized in therapeutic recreation. An in-depth study of assessment/evaluation, goal setting, individualized planning, documentation, leisure counseling, and clinical skills.

RECR 376 ISSUES AND PROBLEMS IN THERAPEUTIC RECREATION (3). An in-depth study of various issues such as professionalism, credentialing, accessibility, mainstreaming, recent legislation, and other topics as they relate to the provision of therapeutic recreation services.

BIOL 045 Fundamentals of Human Anatomy/Physiology

PHYE 075 Anatomy

PHYE 076 Physiology

PHYE 276 Physical Education for the Disabled

PHYE 270 Motor Learning

PHYE 275 Information Processing and Motor Control

PHYE 280 Physiology of Exercise

PHYE 281 Adult Fitness/Cardiovascular Rehabilitation

PHYT 117 Organization and Administration of a Physical Therapy Service

PSYC 101 Conditioning and Learning

PSYC 106 Physiological Psychology

PSYC 124 Psychological Applications of Drugs

PSYC 129 Development of Social Behavior and Personality

PSYC 141 Psychology of Adulthood and Aging

PSYC 144 Psychological Disorders of Childhood and Adolescence

PSYC 152 Atypical Personalities and Groups I

PSYC 180 Introduction to the Study of Exceptional Children

PSYC 220 Personality: Theory and Research

RPSY 200 Introduction to Rehabilitation Psychology and Counseling

RPSY 202 Theories of Counseling Applied to Rehabilitation

RPSY 204 Medical Aspects of Rehabilitation Counseling

RPSY 212 Rehabilitation of Psychosocial Disabilities

RPSY 214 Principles of Group Counseling in Rehabilitation

SOCI 110 Formal Organizations and Bureaucracy

SOCI 122 Sociology of Health and Mental Illness

SOCI 131 Aging

SOCI 141 Social Deviance

EDSP 130 Introduction to Exceptional Children

EDSP 135 Psychology of Mental Retardation

EDSP 143 Introduction to Communication Disorders

EDSP 201 Theories of Counseling

EDSP 222 Behavioral Intervention in Counseling and School Psychology

EDSP 224 Working with Parents and Families of Handicapped Children

EDSP 225 The Problem of Maladjustment Among Children

EDSP 242 Exceptional Child Development

HBHE 103 Implementing and Assessing Health Education

HBHE 190 Psychosocial Aspects of Aging

HBHE 234 Team Problem Solving

HPAA 102 Concepts of Health Administration

HPAA 121 Hospital Organization and Administration

The Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies offers a general recreation management focus. Each student will develop a program based upon her/his particular needs and interests.

RECR 160 ADMINISTRATION OF RECREATION SERVICES (3). Analysis of recreation from the standpoint of organization, administration, finances, training, legislation, public relations, and coordination of community resources.

RECR 260 HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT IN RECREATION SERVICES (3). Analysis of recreation from the standpoint of human resource planning, job analysis, recruitment, training, performance appraisal and compensation of paid staff. Human resource management issues related to volunteers are also discussed.

RECR 265 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT OF RECREATION SERVICES (3). A focus on the strategic processes important to recreation organizations: management, marketing, and finance. Strategic management, the major emphasis of the course, is the spine onto which marketing and finance will be integrated.

RECR 365 RECREATION MANAGEMENT SEMINAR; SELECTED TOPICS, PROBLEMS, AND ISSUES (3). An in-depth treatment of various issues, problems and concerns such as professionalism, liability, recent legislation, and others as they relate to the provision of recreation services.

RECR 120 PROGRAM PLANNING FOR RECREATION SERVICES (3). A study of the principles of planning recreation programs and the factors which affect their implementation and functioning.

RECR 140 RECREATION SPACES: THEIR DESIGN AND USE (3). Principles of planning recreation areas and facilities and the relationship of human needs to environmental resources.

BUSI 120 Risk Management

BUSI 126 Introduction to Real Property

BUSI 140 Legal Environment of Business

BUSI 150 Organizational Behavior

BUSI 158 Introduction to Labor-Management Relations

BUSI 160 Principles of Marketing

BUSI 164 Consumer Behavior

PLAN 204 Theory of Planning

PLAN 207 Professional Communications

PLAN 233 Natural Resource Law and Policy

PLAN 240 Land Use and Environmental Policy

PLAN 241 Land Use and Environmental Planning

PLAN 242 Project and Site Planning

PLAN 244 Development and Environmental Management

PLAN 266 Community Development Planning

PLAN 268 Community Development Policy

EDCI 250 Adult Education: A General Survey

EDCI 251 Program Planning in Adult Education

EDCI 252 Group Dynamics, Decision Making and Problem Solving

PHYE 247 Intramural and Extramural Activities for Schools and Colleges

PHYE 230 Management of Athletic Injuries

PHYE 240 Administration of Physical Education and Sport

PHYE 251 Sport Psychology

PHYE 255 Social Issues in Physical Education and Sport

PHYE 280 Physiology of Exercise

POLI 102 Urban Political Systems

POLI 134 North Carolina Politics and Public Policy

POLI 206 Interviewing in Social Science Research

PUPA 205 Public Policy Analysis

PUPA 210 Public Organization Theory and Behavior

PUPA 211 Public Management and Leadership

POLI 215 Nonprofit Management

POLI 221 Public Policy and Administration

POLI 226 Public Personnel Law and Administration

HBHE 190 Psychosocial Aspects of Aging

HPAA 102 Concepts of Health Administration

SOCI 110 Formal Organizations and Bureaucracy

SOCI 114 The City and Urbanization

SOCI 143 Conflict and Bargaining

SOWO 103 Human Behavior: A Life Cycle Perspective

SOWO 106 Racism: Implications for Human Services

SOWO 228 Social Work Practice With Groups

SOWO 236 Human Behavior of Aging

SOWO 251 Citizen Participation and Volunteer Involvement

All graduate students are required to take RECR 310. Students will register for this course once during the second year they are in the graduate program, BUT will be expected to attend ALL sessions of the seminar for four semesters while taking other coursework. The class will meet 5-6 times each semester for about two hours each time. Few outside readings will be required but students will be expected to attend each meeting unless an excused absence is obtained from the instructor in charge. Topics to be covered in the seminars include internships, comprehensive exams, professional conference reports, problems and issues in the profession, "hot topics" pertaining to recreation and leisure, evaluation of the Curriculum, OSHA requirements, legislative issues, ethics, and other topics deemed important by students and faculty. One or two sessions each semester will also be used for social interaction and getting to know one another better. Full-time faculty will also attend the seminar regularly to interact with students. The class will typically meet on selected Monday evenings but special events may occur during the semester that will be included as part of the seminar with attendance required. You will be given the exact meeting schedule at the beginning of each semester. All students will receive a "P" for their involvement in four semesters. Missing more than one class each semester will result in the lowering of the grade.

Students must have passed a statistics course either as an undergraduate or as part of the graduate program before beginning coursework in RECR 251. This timeline will give students a year to meet the requirement if they do not have this background when they are admitted to the program.

If a student has had previous graduate coursework in a required core or specialization core RECR course, the student should talk to the instructor to ascertain that competency exists. (RECR 160 for recreation management and RECR 175 for therapeutic recreation are only required for students with no background in their specialization core). For other courses, the student will write a letter to the Director of Graduate Studies explaining why the graduate level course is not needed and asking to replace the required course with another RECR course or a related course that better meets the student's needs. The faculty as a whole will make a decision about the student's request.

If a student has no previous coursework or experience in recreation, he/she may be required to take undergraduate courses to make up deficiencies. These courses may be required in addition to the student's Master's curriculum. The deficiencies will be discussed between the assigned advisor, the Director of Graduate Studies, and the student at the time the student is admitted to the Master's program.

If a student desires to be able to take the national examination given by the National Council on Therapeutic Recreation Certification to become a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist--CTRS, and/or to use the credential of Therapeutic Recreation Specialist--TRS authorized by the North Carolina Recreation Therapy Certification Board , she/he is responsible for making sure that all necessary coursework has been completed prior to graduation. In the case of desiring to be eligible to take the CTRS or TRS exam, all students should speak with their advisor about the requirements.

Completion of the masters degree does not guarantee that an individual will become certified. It is the student's responsibility to make sure that all requirements, aside from RECR coursework has been met. All TR students will be required to have an anatomy/physiology course (e.g., BIOL 45), abnormal psychology course (PSYC 80), and a human development course (that addresses development over the lifespan: Students may take PSYC 24 or EDUC 55 or EDFO 101 AND Soci131 OR EDFO 103 or PSYC141) in addition to the courses presently required. These additional courses may or may not be taken for graduate credit and may or may not be taken at UNC-CH. Advisors can provide additional information. Students may want to call NCTRC or the NCTRB directly to assure that the appropriate course requirements are being met.

National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (National Certification)

7 Elmwood Drive

New City, NY 10956

914-639-1439

Therapeutic Recreation Certification Board (NC State Certification)

PO Box 67

Saxapahaw, NC 27340

910-376-0050

RECR majors in recreation and leisure services are eligible for certification by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) as a Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP). Students will contact the North Carolina Recreation and Park Society (919-832-5868) or the National Recreation and Park Association (703-858-0784) for the necessary applications and instructions. Those applying for CPRP status will be notified of approval and disapproval to take the exam. The exam assesses core knowledge of job-related tasks common to entry-level professionals. Upon completion of the CPRP exam, applicants will be informed of their status. Certification is maintained by earning approved Continuing Education Units or academic credit during the 24-month certification period.

National Recreation and Park Association

22377 Belmont Ridge Road

Ashburn, VA 20148

703-858-0748

North Carolina Recreation and Park Society

833 Washington Street

Raleigh, NC 27605

919-832-3858

The Record of the Graduate School and the Graduate School Handbook include a complete listing of the academic regulations. Students should note that the performance of graduate students is evaluated on the basis of:

H = Clear excellence

P = Entirely satisfactory

L = Low passing

F = Failed

A student will be declared ineligible to continue the graduate program when a student receives an F or a third L (see Graduate School Handbook for details).

STUDENTS ARE REMINDED THAT THEY MUST BE REGISTERED BY THE APPROPRIATE DATE (as outlined in the Directory of Classes) IF THEY EXPECT TO TAKE COMPREHENSIVE EXAMS OR DO A THESIS DEFENSE DURING A PARTICULAR SEMESTER/SUMMER SESSION. A student must be registered during the semester in which the comprehensive examination is taken. Registration is also required during the semester in which the thesis is defended, submitted, and accepted by the Graduate School. Under the section marked "Registration" in the Graduate School Handbook, the following statement is made: Any student engaged in thesis or dissertation research and or writing that involves the use of University faculty time or facilities must be registered during the semester in which he or she is using faculty time or facilities, whether the student is "in residence" or not. If the student has already registered for the required number of hours, including the required hours of thesis or dissertation credit, this registration may be for zero credit hours.

The following is offered as a prototype of what a full-time student would be taking in order to complete the MSRA degree within two years. No more than nine (9) credits is recommended each semester.

1 = First Year students

2 = Second Year students

B = Both years together

ALL: RECR 210 (1) TR: RECR 160 (2) RM: RECR 160 (1)

RECR 251 (2) RECR 175 (1) Electives

RECR 310 (B) RECR 176 (1)

ALL: RECR 250 (1) TR: RECR 177 (B) RM: RECR 260 (B)

RECR 310 (B) RECR 275 (B) RECR 265 (B)

ALL: RECR 280/281

RECR 393

RECR 290 (2)

ALL: RECR 210 (1) TR: RECR 175 (1) RM: Electives

RECR 251 (2) RECR 176 (1) RECR 160 (1)

RECR 310 (B) RECR 160 (2)

ALL: RECR 250 (1) TR: RECR 376 (B) RM: RECR 365 (B)

RECR 310 (B)

RECR 230 (B)

Study carrels are available at Davis Library. They are meant to provide a quiet, private, and undisturbed place to work. There is a large demand for these assigned carrels. With proper use, however, graduate students can benefit from this privilege. You may apply for a carrel at the beginning of each semester and renew it subsequently. For more information, contact the Day Desk/Carrel Supervisor at Davis Library.

All candidates for the Master of Science in Recreation Administration degree are required to take a final written comprehensive examination. The comprehensive exams will be arranged to be given once each semester and once during the summer. The student must take the exam on campus unless approval for an absentia exam is given by the Dean of the Graduate School. A student may take the comprehensive exam when all core and specialization core courses are completed or when the final RECR courses are in progress. The comprehensive exam will not be given to anyone with incompletes in any RECR coursework.

The comprehensive exam varies dependent on whether or not a student is completing a thesis. For non-thesis students, the comprehensive exam will consist of two parts. The first will be a four-hour close book test addressing research methods and other core areas. The second part will consist of a 72-hour specialization problem-oriented take home exam that will be individualized for each student. The student may use whatever resources available for the take-home but may not receive help from other faculty or students. The take home exam is to be typed or word-processed complete with references and written in APA style.

For thesis students, the comprehensive exam will consist of a four-hour closed-book test that addresses the core areas and a specialization problem-solving situation.

For both groups, evaluation of the two parts will be done by at least three faculty members for each question. Students must pass 100% of both parts of the exam to pass the comprehensive. The criteria for evaluation will be weighed equally on: organization and writing style, thoroughness of the response, use of sources and logic to justify points made, and synthesis of the concepts and their application.

If a student successfully passes the comprehensive exam, the Director of Graduate Studies will inform the Graduate School of the results. If a student does not pass the examination, the Graduate School will be so notified. A student may take comprehensive exams two times only.

At the beginning of each semester, the Director of Graduate Studies will schedule a day /weekend for all students to take the exam. The student must inform the Director of Graduate Studies in writing of his/her intention to take the exam during that semester or summer session. If a student has extenuating reasons for not taking the comprehensive during the scheduled exam time, he/she should write a letter to the Director of Graduate Studies stating the situation. The graduate faculty will determine an appropriate alternate date.

Dates set for 2001 - 2002 are:

Friday, October 26, 2001 - Monday, October 29, 2001

Friday, March 22, 2002 - Monday, March 25, 2002

In preparing for the comprehensive exams, students should refresh themselves with all previous RECR coursework and consider ways in which the classes may be integrated to address issues and problems of the profession. The exams should not require extensive study if the student has been conscientious in the coursework. The exams, however, will require review and reflection. The comprehensive exams will be discussed in RECR 310.

A student working for a Master's degree has five calendar years from the date of first registration to complete all requirements for the degree. The Record of the Graduate School describes provisions for students who do not have continuous registration from the beginning to the completion of the requirements.

In addition to the 30 credits of coursework, the student may choose to do either a thesis, an internship, or six credits of independent study to complete the degree requirements for the MSRA at UNC-CH. The following guidelines are offered to assist the student in completing these requirements.

A minimum of three credit hours is taken for the thesis, with a maximum of 6 hours that counts towards the required 33 hours. It is expected that the thesis will represent the conclusion by the student of an independent research project, and will show command of the literature and research methodology of his or her specialty. A student must be registered for RECR 393 thesis credit EACH SEMESTER that the thesis is in progress.

If a student decides to do a thesis, the student should meet with their thesis advisor to discuss the feasibility of the intended topic. A draft of the tentative outline of the project should then be completed and submitted to their thesis advisor for comments and criticisms. Two additional committee members should then be selected from among the graduate faculty to serve on the thesis committee. One of those members may be from outside the Department. If the student has selected a minor, someone from the minor department should be on the committee. It is the student's responsibility to ask the faculty to serve on the committee and it is recommended that he/she meet with both committee members prior to finalizing the thesis plans. A prospectus for the project should then be drafted. It should include:

Guidelines concerning Human Subjects Research should also be discussed with the faculty advisor and the Department faculty member in charge of Research on Human Subjects.

After the advisor approves the prospectus, a meeting should be set with the Committee to receive their recommendations and support. This meeting is not necessarily formal, but should provide the student with as much guidance as possible. Committee members should have at least five working days to review the proposal before the meeting. It is after this meeting, with the support and approval of the committee and the Human Subjects Committee, that the data collection can begin.

After the data is collected, the thesis should be written with the supervision of the advisor. Normally the thesis is organized into five chapters including introduction, review of the literature, methodology, findings, and conclusions. The formal style of the American Psychological Association (APA) is recommended, but other acceptable styles may also be used. The thesis should also conform to the standards as defined in A Guide to the Preparation and Submission of Theses and Dissertations which is available free from the Graduate School.

Committee members must have a minimum of two weeks to review the thesis and then a formal committee meeting will be called for the candidate to "defend" his/her work. At that time, the thesis will either be accepted or found unacceptable. Minor changes may be made after the meeting with the approval of the advisor. A report is then filed with the Graduate School. Three copies of the thesis should be prepared and submitted by the appropriate deadline date for binding and storage in the library and the candidate's major department. The Graduate School collects a binding fee when the thesis is submitted.

Students who do not complete the thesis in the semester in which they register for RECR 393, but continue to use University resources (including faculty time) in completing their degrees, must register for at least three (3) hours of thesis credit (RECR 393) each academic semester (Fall/Spring), or for RECR 393X, as described below:

Once the student has completed six (6) credits of thesis (RECR 393), he/she must register for three (3) hours of RECR 393X for each academic semester (Fall/Spring) until the degree is completed, in order to use University resources.

Students who have not completed their degrees, but who are NOT using University resources may:

1. Apply for a leave of absence, filing a formal petition with the Graduate School that states that he/she will not use University resources during the leave period

2. Simply not register, but the time-to-degree clock will continue to tick, with the time being counted against the maximum time allowed for completion of the degree.

In either case (formal leave of absence or non-registration), students wishing to return to the program/Graduate School (because of needing to use University resources and/or defending the thesis) must - through their program - apply to the Graduate School for re-admission, by the deadline set by the Graduate School prior to the semester in which registration is to resume.

Regardless of the course of action selected, all students must be registered in thesis (RECR 393 or RECR 393X) for credit during the semester in which they compete their graduate work are scheduled to receive their degree.

The following guidelines are suggested for students interested in writing a thesis based upon work from the RECR 250-251 classes:

1. Graduate students are encouraged to make the thesis decision as early as possible. Discussion concerning the options for degree completion (thesis, internship, independent studies) will be discussed early in the Fall semester in RECR 310.

3. Ideally, the student will select a thesis advisor while enrolled in RECR 250. The thesis advisor, the RECR 250 professor, and the student are encouraged to work closely together during the proposal development for the RECR 250 class project. This

cooperation is critical particularly if the thesis proposal and data are going to be

directly tied to the class project. The student is also encouraged to select the thesis

committee during this time in order for the committee to be present at the RECR 250

proposal presentation.

4. Students are ultimately responsible for meeting the demands and expectations for

RECR 250-251. Students may need to consider carefully the scope of the project

undertaken for meeting the requirements for RECR 250-251. While the rigors of thesis

expectations need to be kept in mind, students may need to adjust aspects of the

study (i.e., sample size, breadth of analysis and interpretation) to not delay course

completion.

5. While the RECR 250-251 project can serve as the basis for a thesis, this project does not equal a thesis. We expect students will provide additional data, analyses, varied interpretations, or methodological changes from their RECR 250-251 projects.

6. The optimal scenario is for students to present the thesis proposal after they have

presented the RECR 250 proposal. This timing would insure that methodology, data,

and analysis/interpretation considerations are acceptable to the thesis committee as

well as the RECR 250/251 professor. Students could then enroll for thesis credit

after the completion of RECR 251 and have the option of completing the thesis

during the Spring Semester following RECR 251. However, timing is left to the discretion of the student and thesis advisor.

7. Students may choose the thesis option at any point in their graduate program. Upon selecting the thesis choice, the student will be given a different comprehensive exam situation. Thesis students will complete the 4-hour sit-down portion of their comprehensive exams with a question on history/philosophy and an applied question pertaining to their emphasis area.

Students eligible to do the independent study option must consult with their academic advisor. The student wishing to do independent studies will undertake two 3-credit studies and adhere to the following guidelines:

1. Must submit a proposal for the independent study to a faculty member who is to act as an advisor for the independent study. The faculty member is not required to agree to serve as an advisor for any independent study.

2. Should complete an initial literature review before getting the final approval of a faculty member who will agree to be the student's independent study advisor.

3. Should meet with the independent study faculty member at least once every month to show the progress that has been made to that point.

4. Will receive an "S" at the end of the semester if the project has not been completed, and if satisfactory work has been completed up to that point.

5. Should submit a rough draft before attempting to do the final version of the paper.

6. An oral presentation may be required. A scheduled date for oral presentations will be announced during each semester.

A form (see Appendix A) should be submitted to the Director of Graduate Studies within the first week of classes in the semester(s) in which the student enrolls for independent study.

A student wishing to do an internship should begin planning the internship with the Internship Coordinator at least six months before the internship is to begin. It is advisable that the student interviews at least three agencies before making a final decision about the internship. The student must consult with the Internship Coordinator before a final commitment to the agency is made.

Once the decision to do an internship is made, the student should obtain a copy of Internship Manual from the Internship Coordinator and attend all internship meetings. The student will then work with the Internship Coordinator to organize the details of the internship. Students are reminded that they must be registered during the time the internship is undertaken.

In consultation with their advisor and the Internship Coordinator, the student may choose an internship site that appears to meet the career goals of the student. Students desiring national certification in TR must have an agency supervisor who is certified by the National Council on Therapeutic Recreation Certification.

A student must fill out a degree application and the application for admission to candidacy for a MSRA degree during the semester of graduation (August, December, or May). The final date for applying changes each semester so the student should begin this process essentially at the time of registration for the final session. IT IS THE STUDENT'S RESPONSIBILITY TO APPLY FOR GRADUATION ON TIME. The Graduate School publishes a list of deadlines each year. (See Appendix B). Requirements also exist for the last date for taking the written comprehensive and submitting the thesis. These dates generally fall at approximately two-thirds and three-fourths of the way through the semester, respectively. A student should work directly with the Director of Graduate Studies to assure that the deadlines are clear and are met on time.

If a student wishes to request reinstatement, an extension of time to complete the degree, a leave of absence, or an extension of time to remove an Incomplete, a completed "Student Request Form" together with a written departmental recommendation needs to be sent to the Graduate School. For other requests, please call the Graduate School’s Enrolled Student Office at 966-2611 for information about necessary documentation.

Master's degrees are awarded at the end of each semester and the second Summer Session. Formal commencement exercises are held in May and December. A student may "march" in the Spring if she/he is graduating in May, August, or December.

It shall be the responsibility of every student at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill to obey and to support the enforcement of the Honor Code. Students should read the student responsibilities as described in the Record of the Graduate School.

The family of Amy Elizabeth Lauth established a scholarship in her honor to assist two RECR graduate students each year in their therapeutic recreation studies. The family is particularly interested in funding this scholarship for anyone who has a strong interest in working with under-served individuals, people with disabilities, or older adults.

The Amy Elizabeth Lauth Memorial Scholarship will be given to graduate students in the Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies with an interest in therapeutic recreation. The recipients should have a particular interest in people with special needs including but not limited to older adults and/or people with disabilities. The scholarship is based on financial need as determined by the student’s description of need.

The faculty will automatically consider all RECR graduate students specializing in therapeutic recreation and who meet the criteria established for this scholarship. No additional materials are necessary.

The RECR faculty will select two students to receive this scholarship. The winners will be announced at the annual Meyer Awards Banquet held in April.

Each student will receive $1000 to be applied towards tuition and fees. In addition, their names will be inscribed on a plaque that hangs in the Evergreen House.

The H. Douglas Sessoms Graduate Scholarship Fund is established to honor his accomplishments and personal qualities. Scholarships play a vital role in assuring that the best students will be prepared to face the challenges of the profession in the future.

Currently enrolled UNC-CH Graduate students are eligible who are in at least the second semester of MSRA coursework, have completed at least six credits, and will not be graduating in the current calendar year.

A student will be selected each year on the way that she/he represents the ideals of professionalism that Doug espoused throughout his career. Professionalism includes those attributes related to commitment to the field, professional and personal ethics, past and present leadership in the field and among peers, and likelihood of professional success. The award is based on merit and not financial need.

All members of the faculty will review the essays and consider the professionalism (defined above) of each nominee. The individual who most exemplifies the ideal of professionalism will be selected. A student may receive the award only once.

The student selected will receive a scholarship check ranging from $500-1500 depending on the interest generated from the endowment. The student will be recognized at the annual Meyer Awards Banquet in April and will have his/her name engraved on a plaque hanging in the Evergreen House.

Currently enrolled UNC-CH Graduate students are eligible who are in at least the second semester of MSRA coursework and have completed at least six credits.

At least two students will be selected each year who have an interest in attending a national meeting and who have will represent UNC-CH in activities at the conference. The award is based on both merit and financial need.

All members of the faculty will review the letters and consider who might be eligible based on interest and the amount of money available. The selection will be made prior to July 1 each year.

The students selected will receive reimbursement of a specified amount of money determined at the time of the selection. The students will be expected to report about the conference in RECR 310 upon their return.

Students may obtain some assistance from the Department's Meyer Fund to attend state and national conferences or to complete research. The following policies have been established:

1. Any Graduate or Undergraduate RECR major may request funds to help with professional development expenses beyond the normal expectations for students. These requests may be applied towards, but not limited to, travel expenses to attend conferences, registration fees, etc. Limited funds may also be available for thesis-related research if the research has Department implications.

2. The requests should contain the following information: a description of the experience, the value to the professional development of the student, a time frame (if necessary), and a budget. Students should also include how they will share this experience with the other students and faculty.

3. Requests for funds should be made at the beginning of each semester (Fall Semester funds by Sept. 30; Spring Semester funds by Jan. 30). Requests can be made at any time throughout the semester but priority will be given to early requests or exceptional requests. Written requests should be directed to the RECR Chair who will bring the proposal to the next faculty meeting.

4. Submitted requests will be evaluated by the faculty on the basis of the described benefits and needs as outlined by the student. Students may be granted full or partial requests or denied completely.

5. The amount of the requests and the awarded funds may vary. Likely requests could range from $25-$100, but the requested amount is open for the student to propose.

National Recreation and Park Association

22377 Belmont Ridge Road

Ashburn, VA 20148

703-858-0748

http://www.activeparks.org

American Association for Leisure and Recreation/AAHPERD

1900 Association Drive

Reston, VA 20191

703-476-3400

http://www.aahperd.org

American Therapeutic Recreation Association

PO Box 15215

Hattiesburg, MS 39404-5215

601-264-3413

http://www.atra-tr.org

American Camping Association

Bradford Woods

5000 State Road 67 North

Martinsville, IN 46151-7902

765-342-8456

http://www.aca-camps.org

North Carolina Recreation and Park Society (County, Municipal, Therapeutic Recreation, Military Divisions)

833 Washington Street

Raleigh, NC 27605

919-832-3858

http://www2.ncsu.edu/forest_resources/recresource/ncrps