RTNL Programs

Explore. Lead. Inspire.

Prepare for a dynamic career creating experiences and environments that encourage people to explore, connect and grow through programs offered by the Department of Health, Recreation & Community Services. 

With the primary focus on recreation, tourism and nonprofit leadership (RTNL), you'll find programs that help you empower others and strengthen your community. Contribute to healthy lifestyles by managing youth camps, parks, sports facilties and senior centers. Specialize in oudoor education and leadership. Support your community and visitors through various social and charitable organizations. 

In addition to both the BA and MA in RTNL, HRCS offers: 

What our alumni say

Alums Ryan Harkema and Sydney Welte

Master's Programs

Renowned Facilities

A fit environment to grow

The Wellness and Recreation Center (WRC) is the ultimate hub for UNI students where you will take your RTNL major classes. Inside you'll find a vibrant community using the: 

  • Fitness center, weight rooms, pools and fitness classes
  • Climbing wall and outdoor equipment rental office
  • Nonprofit Leadership Alliance office
  • RTNL Outdoor Adventures lab
  • Easy access to athletic events in the UNI-Dome

This is your space to explore, lead and inspire. 

Girl on rock wall at Wellness and Recreation Center

On campus and beyond 

At UNI, you have access to: 

  • UNI athletic fields (football, softball, rugby, ultimate frisbee, soccer) 
  • Hiking, biking and running trails – on and off campus 
  • An on-campus pond for kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding – with trails weaving through the surrounding prairie
  • Tallgrass Prairie Center
  • Community facilities and parks, including the new Gateway River Park for kayaking, canoeing and paddle boarding 

In addition, through RTNL Outdoor Adventures, you can participate in – or help lead – trips regionally and beyond. Recent ventures: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on Lake Superior and the Grand Canyon! 

Paddling on the pond

A fit environment to grow

The Wellness and Recreation Center (WRC) is the ultimate hub for UNI students where you will take your RTNL major classes. Inside you'll find a vibrant community using the: 

  • Fitness center, weight rooms, pools and fitness classes
  • Climbing wall and outdoor equipment rental office
  • Nonprofit Leadership Alliance office
  • RTNL Outdoor Adventures lab
  • Easy access to athletic events in the UNI-Dome

This is your space to explore, lead and inspire. 

Girl on rock wall at Wellness and Recreation Center

On campus and beyond 

At UNI, you have access to: 

  • UNI athletic fields (football, softball, rugby, ultimate frisbee, soccer) 
  • Hiking, biking and running trails – on and off campus 
  • An on-campus pond for kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding – with trails weaving through the surrounding prairie
  • Tallgrass Prairie Center
  • Community facilities and parks, including the new Gateway River Park for kayaking, canoeing and paddle boarding 

In addition, through RTNL Outdoor Adventures, you can participate in – or help lead – trips regionally and beyond. Recent ventures: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on Lake Superior and the Grand Canyon! 

Paddling on the pond