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Best Value Parks Colleges in California

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

California State University-Sacramento stands out among the state's 13 Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies programs with the highest graduate earnings at $38,751, despite a mid-range net cost of $10,512. The gap between the most affordable option at CSU-Dominguez Hills ($3,659) and private Simpson University ($27,923) reflects California's broader educational market. With the state's massive tourism industry generating over $145 billion annually and extensive park systems from Yosemite to local recreation centers, graduates find opportunities across public agencies, resort management, and outdoor recreation companies throughout the Golden State.
13
Programs
$3,659 – $27,923
Net Price Range
$33,225
Avg. Program Earnings
58.4%
Avg. Graduation Rate

13 Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $6,480 $35,240 $6,980 54.8% 95.4%
2 $8,931 $34,942 $7,008 69.9% 40.0%
3 $10,512 $38,751 $7,602 55.8% 93.2%
4 $14,838 $38,072 $8,064 63.6% 95.0%
5 $11,276 $27,669 $7,055 45.5% 96.2%
6 $12,882 $31,314 $7,424 50.1% 94.2%
7 $16,174 $26,585 $8,290 78.3% 39.3%
8 $15,624 $11,075 85.2% 30.4%
9 $3,659 $7,064 46.9% 89.1%
10 $7,599 $7,095 56.2% 91.2%
11 $13,167 $7,913 46.6% 98.2%
12 $13,741 $7,992 64.7% 76.7%
13 $27,923 $38,522 41.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes California State University-Sacramento the top earning choice for recreation studies graduates?

CSU-Sacramento graduates earn $38,751 annually, the highest among all programs in the state. The campus benefits from proximity to state government agencies and California's extensive park system headquarters. With a 55.8% graduation rate and reasonable debt levels at $19,181, it offers solid career preparation.

How much can students save by choosing public over private recreation programs?

The cost difference reaches $24,264 annually between CSU-Dominguez Hills at $3,659 and Simpson University at $27,923. All 12 public options cost under $17,000 net annually. California's Cal Grant program helps qualifying students cover tuition at public universities.

Does program selectivity correlate with better outcomes in California recreation studies?

San Diego State University accepts just 39.26% of applicants and achieves a 78.3% graduation rate, among the highest in the state. However, less selective programs like CSU-Fresno (95.43% acceptance) still produce graduates earning $35,240. Cal Poly San Luis Obispo combines selectivity (30.43% acceptance) with an 85.2% graduation rate.

Where do California recreation studies graduates find the strongest job markets?

The state's $145 billion tourism industry creates demand from San Diego beaches to Lake Tahoe ski resorts. Government positions span the National Park Service, California State Parks, and municipal recreation departments. Silicon Valley tech companies also hire recreation professionals for employee wellness programs.

More Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies Rankings

Cheapest Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies in California Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies Under $20,000 in California

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.