RTNL Programs
Explore. Lead. Inspire.
Prepare for dynamic careers creating experiences and environments that encourage people to explore, connect and grow through UNI's undergraduate and graduate programs focused primarily on recreation, tourism and nonprofit leadership (RTNL).
Through these programs, you'll find choices that let you empower others, contribute to healthy lifestyles and strengthen communities and organizations. Gain the skills you need to both begin and grow your career while connecting with a network of alumni professionals ready to welcome you into the field. Learn from a team of expert faculty ready to guide and mentor you throughout your journey.
Leading Programs
Recreation, Tourism & Nonprofit Leadership
Become an effective leader in various community and nonprofit settings. The RTNL degree gives you many career options. Through hands-on learning, practical skill development, and extra-curricular activities, you will be prepared to lead in community recreation, nonprofit administration, tourism, or youth development.
Recreation Administration
This on-campus program prepares you for leadership roles in various settings, including youth services, campus or community recreation, outdoor leadership and tourism. Take an active role in determining your personal learning objectives and develop your programs of study to take your career to the next level. Coordinator: Chris Kowalski
Recreation, Tourism & Nonprofit Leadership
Become an effective leader in various community and nonprofit settings. The RTNL degree gives you many career options. Through hands-on learning, practical skill development, and extra-curricular activities, you will be prepared to lead in community recreation, nonprofit administration, tourism, or youth development.
Recreation Administration
This on-campus program prepares you for leadership roles in various settings, including youth services, campus or community recreation, outdoor leadership and tourism. Take an active role in determining your personal learning objectives and develop your programs of study to take your career to the next level. Coordinator: Chris Kowalski
What our alumni say
RTNL Minor and Certificates
Many students find the RTNL minor and certificates can add skills that benefit them in future roles, particularly areas like education. No matter your major, these options are worth considering.
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.
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!
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.
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!
More interdisciplinary options!
Student & Alumni Spotlights
Lane Rogers
Recreation, tourism and nonprofit leadership
Class of 2028
Courtney Johnson
MA, Community Health and Recreation
Class of 2025