Charles Sturt University

Course Details

Bachelor of Applied Science (Parks, Recreation and Heritage)

Course Description

CSU’s Bachelor of Applied Science (Parks, Recreation and Heritage) provides you with the in‐depth knowledge and skills required to manage Australia’s National Reserve System ‐ particularly how to conserve these unique landscapes and the plants and animals they contain for future generations. This is the oldest and most respected park management course in Australia. Graduates of CSU’s Bachelor of Applied Science (Parks, Recreation and Heritage) are employed by park agencies and in local governments as park rangers, wildlife officers undertaking specific wildlife conservation programs, interpretive officers conducting outdoor education programs or as specialists in cultural and Indigenous heritage. A number of graduates are also employed by local governments to manage parks, grounds and ovals. As a graduate, you will apply your skills and knowledge in biophysical, ecological and social sciences to protected area management, the conservation of flora and fauna, and cultural heritage management. You will use your expertise in strategic planning, critical thinking and people management to effectively balance conservation and recreational values and assist visitors and the community appreciate and contribute to the conservation of our natural heritage.

Course Duration

NumberDuration
3year

Career outcomes

If you love the outdoors and want to help manage our natural, cultural and historical assets then a ranger's job is for you. It is highly rewarding, never the same and provides some exciting challenges. CSU’s focus is on education programs that prepare graduates for work. CSU has been training rangers for more than 30 years. With the continued involvement of the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service to develop the course, the Bachelor of Applied Science (Parks, Recreation and Heritage) curriculum is focused on teaching the key skills park managers require - a strong understanding of the environment and an ability to communicate with people using these environments. You will graduate with the knowledge, skills, attitudes, habits and professional networks needed for a successful career. Indigenous and Cultural Heritage specialisation: rangers aboriginal heritage officers heritage consultants roles within museums Visitor Services and Open Space specialisation: rangers interpretive officers open space planners recreation officers Wildlife and Conservation specialisation: botanists conservation management rangers threatened species officers wildlife officers.

Bachelor of Applied Science (Parks, Recreation and Heritage) Charles Sturt University