The School of Community Resources and Development enhances the social, cultural, environmental and economic wellbeing of communities. We accomplish this both in the classroom and online through a range of undergraduate, graduate and professional non-credit programs, along with our nationally recognized, interdisciplinary research.
In addition, SCRD has partnered with Hainan University, creating the Hainan University-Arizona State University International College (HAIC), with a graduate program in tourism development and management, and two undergraduate degrees, including tourism development and management, and parks, recreation and sport management.
What makes us unique
ASU’s School of Community Resources and Development prepares leaders to make communities better places to live, work, play and visit. Our inspiration comes from being part of the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions — a community of change agents passionate about making a difference in the world. Through a broad range of excellent academic programs, scholarship and service, our school emphasizes a multi-disciplinary approach to sustainable community development worldwide. We are committed to helping all learners move forward to meet the workforce demands of today, equipping them with proficiency in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, along with critical leadership, communication and problem-solving skills. Our faculty merge theory and practice, engaging an expansive network of partners that provide rich, handson experiences for students and opportunities to act on our common goal of generating solutions that lead to more vibrant, resilient and inclusive societies. Join us as we activate big ideas that advance people and places, both near and far, while preparing the next generation of leaders to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Degree programs
Nonprofit Leadership and Management, BS (Downtown Phoenix and Online)
Nonprofit Leadership and Management (American Indian Studies), BS (Downtown Phoenix)
Parks, Recreation and Sport Management, BS (Downtown Phoenix and HAIC in Hainan, China)
Recreational Therapy, BS (Downtown Phoenix)
Tourism Development and Management, BS (Downtown Phoenix and HAIC in Hainan, China)
• Concentrations in: Meetings and Events, Resort and Hotel Leadership, Sustainable Tourism
Tourism and Recreation Management, BS (Online)
BS/MA/MNLM/MS/MST Accelerated Programs (Downtown Phoenix)
Community Resources and Development, MSCRD (Downtown Phoenix)
• Concentrations in:
Sustainable Communities, Parks and Recreation Management, Nonprofits and NGOs
Community Resources and Development, MSCRD (Downtown Phoenix and HAIC in Hainan, China)
• Concentrations in:
Sustainable Communities, Parks and Recreation Management, Nonprofits and NGOs, Tourism
Nonprofit Leadership and Management, MNLM (Downtown Phoenix and Online)
Sustainable Tourism, MST (Online)
Community Resources and Development, PhD (Downtown Phoenix)
Certificates and minors
Undergraduate
• Community Sports Management (minor)
• Convention Sales and Meeting Planning (certificate)
• Law Enforcement in Parks and Protected Areas (certificate)
• Nonprofit Leadership and Management (minor)
• Special Events Management (minor and certificate)
• Sustainable Tourism (minor)
• Tourism Development and Management (minor)
• Youth Services Leadership (minor)
• Nonprofit Professional (certificate)
• Parks and Protected Area Management (minor)
• Recreation Management (minor)
• Recreational Therapy (minor and certificate)
Graduate
• Nonprofit Leadership and Management
• Social Entrepreneurship and Community Development
• Sustainable Tourism
Research centers
Center for Sustainable Tourism
The Center for Sustainable Tourism examines how tourism contributes to the social, cultural, environmental and economic well-being of communities.
Lodestar Center for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Innovation
The Lodestar Center for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Innovation builds the capacity of the social sector by enhancing the effectiveness of those who lead, manage and support nonprofit organizations.
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute provides university-quality educational experiences for adults ages 50 and above through diverse, short courses and lectures, campus-based learning opportunities and civic engagement initiatives.
Highlights
Students learn alongside nationally recognized faculty members whose work has earned them fellowships, awards and frequent media coverage.
Faculty have secured more than $2 million in research funding in recent years. Over the past three years, more than 80 undergraduate students have worked with faculty on funded research projects, many winning national awards. These research opportunities have inspired numerous students to pursue graduate degrees.
Class activities promote networking and job placement opportunities for students by directly engaging with community/industry partners. Undergraduate students seeking more hands-on industry experience may complete faculty-facilitated internships.
Study abroad programs take undergraduate and graduate students out of the classroom and into resource-rich locations like the national parks of Kenya and Botswana. All students also are invited to participate in the school’s five vibrant student associations that stimulate learning while fostering a meaningful sense of community and belonging.
More than 20 graduates of the school’s PhD program are employed in higher education as faculty members, and nearly a dozen have either started their own company or are working in upper-management positions.
Snapshot
1,400+ undergraduate students
200+ graduate students
40+ student-focused faculty members
10,000 + alumni worldwide
Multiple scholarships made possible by generous donors
Degree programs accredited by NACC and COAPRT
A Hispanic-Serving Institution, as designated by the U.S. Department of Education
#2 U.S., #7 world for hospitality, leisure, sport and tourism research – Center for World University Rankings
