Experiential Learning
Experience PRTM
From your initial classes as a PRTM major to your final capstone internship, our curriculum is centered around experiential learning. This approach allows students to apply classroom concepts and skills to real-world challenges in the community and industry. We provide information, resources, and support to help you navigate every step of your student experience.
Experience PRTM in the Classroom
We are committed to an educational philosophy that prioritizes experiential learning as a cornerstone of academic excellence. Our curriculum is designed to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring that students actively participate in their learning processes. Through collaborative projects, industry partnerships, and immersive experiences, our courses foster a deep understanding of the parks, recreation, and tourism management field.
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Foundations of Management and Administration in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management
PRTM 2260: Foundations of Management and Administration is part of the EDGE Program (Engaged Diverse Guided Experience). In this 6-credit course, students are introduced to the domains of strategic management and effective leadership before applying that knowledge to practice outside the classroom. The EDGE program provides students the opportunity to explore the field of parks, recreation, and tourism management through a series of signature experiences, including attending a professional conference, partnering with organizations in the local community to solve real-life challenges, engaging in leadership and team-building sessions, and conducting site visits to PRTM-related organizations.
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Program and Event Planning in Parks, Recreation and Tourism
PRTM 2220 is a dynamic course designed to equip students with the essential skills for planning, implementing, and evaluating programs and events within the parks and recreation field. Throughout the semester, students will explore theoretical concepts, strategies, and best practices, culminating in a hands-on project. In collaboration with a local community organization, students will have the unique opportunity to apply their classroom learning in a real-world context, fostering both practical experience and community engagement.
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Elements of Recreation and Park Planning
PRTM 4030 provides a dynamic approach to recreation and park planning by merging theoretical principles with hands-on experience through real-world projects, engaging students with clients like the SC State Park Service. Throughout the semester, students form consulting teams to address specific issues, culminating in comprehensive planning proposals that include detailed designs and budgets. This immersive experience not only enhances their planning skills but also builds confidence as they learn to navigate the complexities of real-world projects.
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Adaptive Sports and Recreation
Unlock a unique learning adventure at Clemson University with our hands-on Adaptive Sports and Recreation course, where you’ll dive into real-world activities that prepare you for a career in adaptive sports. Whether you’re guiding a wheelchair basketball team, organizing inclusive community events, or helping individuals with disabilities explore new recreational activities, this course equips you with essential skills and the Certified Adaptive Recreation and Sport Specialist (CARSS-I) certification from Blaze Sports America. Ideal for those eager to go beyond conventional classrooms, you’ll gain extensive practical experience, ensuring you’re job-ready with the CARSS-I designation by the end of the course, showcasing your expertise in the field.
Experience PRTM Abroad
Sports at Escuela Universitaria Real Madrid
Madrid, Spain
The Escuela Universitaria Real Madrid – Universidad Europea offers a focused Study Abroad program in Madrid for students interested in sports management. Available in Spring, Fall, and Summer, it combines coursework, internships, and hands-on experience with Real Madrid C.F. Students attend masterclasses, visit iconic venues like Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, and engage directly with Real Madrid executives. The program brings together peers from top U.S. universities and over 70 countries, offering a comparative look at American and European sports management. Set in vibrant Madrid, it delivers practical industry insight and global career exposure.
Learn MoreFaculty-Directed: Study Abroad in the Bahamas
Eleuthera, Bahamas
Established in 2012, the One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) is a Rock Sound–based nonprofit committed to sustainable development and environmental stewardship. Led by Lane Glaze, a distinguished Professor of Practice in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management (PRTM), OEF provides an enriching Study Abroad program with three cohorts and specialized courses. This experience introduces students to park management principles, explores climate change impacts, and highlights Eleuthera’s stunning landscapes—blending academic learning with real-world insights. The course fulfills the Global Challenges General Education Requirement (PRTM 3500).
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PRTM at the Paralympics in Paris
Paris, France
Since 2010, Clemson students have attended the Paralympic Games in locations such as Sochi, Russia; London, UK; and Pyeongchang, South Korea. At the 2024 Games in Paris, they witnessed over 4,400 athletes compete across 23 sports. Students earn academic credit while exploring sport and culture, engaging with event designers and organizers to understand the Games’ execution and the global importance of disability awareness. This immersive experience also offers insight into the complex planning and logistics behind large-scale international sporting events. Beyond spectating, students have the opportunity to volunteer by assisting with athlete check-in at the Olympic and Paralympic Village.
Learn MoreExperience PRTM in the Field
In our program, you will be able to integrate the knowledge gained throughout the program in both internship and practicum experiences; students in Recreational Therapy also have preceptorship hours that help prepare them for clinical settings. All of these experiences are resume-builders as much as they are confidence-builders, and we have dedicated staff to help you explore the possibilities of this experience.
