Parks, Recreation, Leisure, Fitness, and Kinesiology, Other.

Degree Overview

Parks, Recreation, Leisure, Fitness, and Kinesiology, Other (CIP 31.9999) is a broad, flexible interdisciplinary field focused on human movement, wellness, recreation, and quality of life. This classification includes customized or nontraditional programs that blend elements of parks and recreation, fitness, kinesiology, leisure studies, outdoor leadership, health promotion, and physical activity management into a single, integrated degree. It is designed for students whose interests span multiple areas of movement, health, and recreation and who want a versatile education aligned with real-world careers.

For a degree search site, this CIP code is especially important because it represents adaptability and personalization. Many careers in health, fitness, recreation, and wellness do not fit neatly into one academic box. This degree allows students to combine scientific knowledge of the human body with applied skills in programming, leadership, and community engagement. It supports careers that promote active lifestyles, physical well-being, and inclusive recreation across diverse populations.

What Is a Parks, Recreation, Leisure, Fitness, and Kinesiology Degree?

A Parks, Recreation, Leisure, Fitness, and Kinesiology degree is an interdisciplinary program that integrates the study of physical activity, recreation systems, fitness, and human movement. Programs under the “Other” designation are typically designed to accommodate specialized tracks or customized concentrations that do not align with a single standard major.

Instead of focusing on only one area—such as teaching physical education or training elite athletes—this degree examines:

• How people move and exercise
• How recreation and leisure contribute to health and well-being
• How fitness programs are designed and delivered
• How parks and recreation systems serve communities
• How leadership and management support active lifestyles

Universities offer this degree to:

• Prepare professionals who can promote health, fitness, and recreation holistically
• Support careers that blend science, leadership, and service
• Provide flexibility for students with multiple interests
• Align education with evolving careers in wellness and recreation

This degree is especially common at institutions that emphasize applied learning and community impact.

What Will You Learn?

Students learn how physical activity, recreation, and leisure influence physical health, mental well-being, and social connection. You’ll study the science of human movement alongside practical skills in program delivery, leadership, and facility or community management.

Core Skills You’ll Build

Graduates typically develop skills such as:

• Understanding human movement and fitness—basic kinesiology and exercise principles
• Fitness and activity programming—designing safe, effective programs
• Recreation and leisure planning—creating inclusive activities and services
• Leadership and supervision—guiding teams, participants, or volunteers
• Health and wellness promotion—encouraging active, healthy lifestyles
• Program evaluation—assessing participation, outcomes, and impact
• Communication and interpersonal skills—working with diverse populations
• Risk management and safety—ensuring safe environments for physical activity

These skills support careers that combine movement, people, and community engagement.

Topics You May Explore

Because this is a flexible classification, coursework varies widely, but commonly includes:

• Kinesiology and Human Movement: biomechanics and motor behavior
• Exercise and Fitness Science: strength, endurance, and conditioning
• Recreation and Leisure Studies: leisure behavior and program design
• Parks and Community Recreation: public recreation systems and access
• Health and Wellness Promotion: physical activity and lifestyle health
• Coaching and Instruction: teaching movement and sport skills
• Facility and Program Management: operations and scheduling
• Outdoor or Adventure Recreation: experiential and outdoor activity programs
• Inclusive and Adaptive Recreation: serving diverse abilities and ages

Many programs include internships, practicums, or field experiences.

What Jobs Can You Get With This Degree?

A Parks, Recreation, Leisure, Fitness, and Kinesiology degree prepares students for people-centered, activity-focused careers. Career outcomes depend on chosen concentrations, certifications, and experience.

Common career paths include:

• Fitness Trainer or Wellness Coach: guiding individuals or groups
• Recreation Program Coordinator: organizing community activities
• Parks or Recreation Specialist: supporting public recreation services
• Health Promotion or Wellness Coordinator: managing wellness initiatives
• Sports or Activity Program Assistant: supporting leagues or events
• Youth, Camp, or Outdoor Program Leader: leading activity-based programs
• Facilities or Operations Assistant: supporting recreation spaces
• Graduate or Professional School Path: preparing for kinesiology, physical therapy, or public administration

Professional certifications often enhance employability.

Where Can You Work?

Graduates work in organizations that promote physical activity and recreation:

• Parks and recreation departments
• Fitness centers and wellness facilities
• Schools and educational institutions
• Community and nonprofit organizations
• Sports and recreation facilities
• Camps and outdoor recreation programs
• Corporate wellness and health programs

How Much Can You Earn?

Earnings vary widely by role, sector, and credentials.

Typical ranges include:

• Entry-level recreation or fitness roles: often $35,000–$50,000
• Program coordinators or wellness professionals: commonly $45,000–$70,000
• Managers or specialized professionals: often $70,000–$100,000+

Certifications, leadership roles, and public-sector benefits can significantly affect compensation.

Is This Degree Hard?

Parks, Recreation, Leisure, Fitness, and Kinesiology is considered moderately challenging. Academic demands are balanced with hands-on learning, physical activity, and applied experiences. Students must manage coursework alongside labs, fieldwork, and sometimes physically active requirements.

The challenge lies in balancing theory with practice and maintaining consistent engagement.

Who Should Consider This Degree?

This degree may be a strong fit if you:

• Enjoy physical activity and movement
• Like working with people and communities
• Want a flexible degree tied to health and wellness
• Prefer applied, hands-on learning
• Are interested in recreation, fitness, or kinesiology careers

How to Prepare in High School

To prepare for this interdisciplinary program:

• Take biology, health, and physical education courses
• Participate in sports, fitness, or outdoor activities
• Develop strong communication and leadership skills
• Volunteer with parks, recreation centers, or camps
• Learn basic fitness, anatomy, or wellness concepts

Parks, Recreation, Leisure, Fitness, and Kinesiology, Other (CIP 31.9999) is a versatile, people-first degree for students who want to promote movement, health, and quality of life. It prepares graduates to support active communities, inclusive recreation, and lifelong wellness through a flexible education that reflects how people actually live, move, and play.