Practicums, Internships, Field Experiences

What Practical Experience Opportunities Are Available for Recreation and Sport Management Students?

Students in the Recreation and Sport Management (RESM) program gain extensive hands-on experience through required practicums, internships, field experiences, industry networking opportunities, and engagement with professionals throughout their coursework. These experiences allow students to apply classroom knowledge, build professional skills, expand their network, and prepare for careers in recreation, sport, tourism, events, parks, collegiate athletics and related industries.

What practicum requirements do undergraduate RESM students complete?

Undergraduate students pursuing the Bachelor of Science in Recreation and Sport Management complete two practicum experiences (RESM 20101). Each practicum requires 37.5 hours of supervised professional experience and opportunities to develop career interests and professional connections.

What internship requirements do undergraduate RESM students complete?

Undergraduate RESM students are required to complete an internship experience through RESM 3940V. Students may choose either:

  1. One 12 credit-hour internship totaling 450 hours of work or
  2. Two 6 credit-hour internships totaling 225 hours each

Can undergraduate students complete practicums or internships outside of Arkansas?

Yes. Students regularly complete internships throughout Arkansas, across the country, and sometimes internationally (additional U of A Study Abroad approval required).

Where do RESM students complete practicums and internships?

Many students complete practical experiences with organizations throughout Northwest Arkansas, the Kansas City and St. Louis metropolitan areas, the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex and beyond.

Examples of some of our industry partners:

Northwest Arkansas

  • Arkansas Razorbacks
  • U of A University Recreation
  • Experience Fayetteville
  • Visit Bentonville
  • City of Fayetteville Parks and Recreation
  • Donald W. Reynolds Boys & Girls Club
  • Northwest Arkansas Naturals
  • Ozark United FC
  • NWA Storms Volleyball Club
  • Crunch Fitness
  • Local public schools athletics
  • Walton Family Whole Health & Fitness Center

Kansas City and St. Louis areas

  • Kansas City Chiefs
  • Kansas City Sports Commission
  • St. Louis Cardinals

Dallas-Fort Worth area

  • Dallas Cowboys
  • Dallas Stars
  • Other professional sport organizations, youth sport organizations, event venues, tourism agencies, and recreation providers throughout the DFW Metroplex

What practical experience opportunities are available for graduate students?

M.S. in Sport Management students may complete an internship experience through SPMT 5740V as an elective for up to 3 credit hours. M.S. in Outdoor Recreation and Sport Tourism students must complete field experience through ORST 5180V, with 6 credit hours required.

Why are practicums, internships and field experiences important?

These experiences help students apply classroom concepts, develop professional skills, build industry relationships, explore career paths and improve employment opportunities after graduation.

Who should I contact with questions about practicums, internships, or field experiences?

Simeon Hinsey, Ed.D.
Teaching Assistant Professor & Internship Coordinator
Recreation and Sport Management Program
University of Arkansas
sahinsey@uark.edu