Recreation and Leisure Services

Program Overview

Centennial College's Recreation and Leisure Services program equips students with the skills to enhance community well-being through inclusive recreation, leisure, and wellness initiatives. Graduates are prepared for careers in community centers, parks, fitness facilities, and non-profit organizations, where they can develop and manage programs, events, and services that promote healthy and active living. The program emphasizes experiential learning, global citizenship, and equity, ensuring graduates are well-rounded professionals ready to make a positive impact in their communities.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The Recreation and Leisure Services program at Centennial College aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to enhance the quality of life for individuals by fostering healthy communities. The curriculum aligns with the evolving demands of the recreation and leisure industry.

Objectives:

Upon completing the program, graduates will be proficient in:

• Developing, implementing, and evaluating inclusive recreation, leisure, and wellness initiatives that meet the specific needs, interests, and abilities of various individuals and communities.
• Utilizing administrative and customer service techniques to support the effective delivery of recreation, leisure, and wellness programs, events, and services.
• Applying analytical, developmental, and implementation strategies to market programs, events, services, and facilities to diverse populations, leveraging current communication technologies.
• Contributing to the creation of sustainable and financially responsible recreation, leisure, and wellness offerings, incorporating contemporary business, finance, and social entrepreneurship principles.
• Supervising, leading, and supporting staff and volunteers engaged in recreation, leisure, and wellness programs, events, and services.
• Implementing safety and accessibility measures to ensure the efficient operation and administration of recreation and leisure facilities and settings.
• Advocating for the benefits of recreation, leisure, and healthy active living, recommending inclusive programs and services to individuals and groups.
• Applying community development strategies to engage citizens and community partners in promoting healthy communities.
• Pursuing continuous personal and professional development as recreation and leisure services professionals.

Outline:

The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the recreation and leisure field. The curriculum includes a combination of theoretical and practical components, with a strong emphasis on field placement to ensure that students develop practical skills and experience.

Course Schedule:

The program is offered over four semesters and includes the following courses:

• Introduction to Recreation and Leisure Services
• Recreation Programming and Leadership
• Recreation and Leisure Facility Management
• Risk Management in Recreation and Leisure Services
• Grant Writing for Recreation and Leisure Services
• Marketing Recreation and Leisure Services
• Event Planning and Management
• Volunteer Management in Recreation and Leisure Services
• Inclusive Recreation and Leisure Services
• Recreation and Leisure for Specific Populations
• Recreation and Leisure Research
• Supervised Field Placement

Individual Modules with Descriptions:

• Introduction to Recreation and Leisure Services: Explores the history, philosophy, and principles of recreation and leisure services, as well as the roles and responsibilities of recreation professionals.
• Recreation Programming and Leadership: Provides students with the skills and knowledge to develop, implement, and evaluate recreation programs for diverse populations.
• Recreation and Leisure Facility Management: Focuses on the management and operation of recreation and leisure facilities, including planning, budgeting, and marketing.
• Risk Management in Recreation and Leisure Services: Equips students with the knowledge and skills to identify, assess, and manage risks associated with recreation and leisure activities.
• Grant Writing for Recreation and Leisure Services: Teaches students how to develop and write effective grant proposals to secure funding for recreation and leisure programs and services.
• Marketing Recreation and Leisure Services: Provides students with the marketing principles and techniques necessary to promote recreation and leisure programs, events, and services to target audiences.
• Event Planning and Management: Covers the planning and management of recreation and leisure events, including budgeting, vendor management, and risk assessment.
• Volunteer Management in Recreation and Leisure Services: Focuses on the effective recruitment, training, and management of volunteers in recreation and leisure settings.
• Inclusive Recreation and Leisure Services: Examines the principles and practices of inclusive recreation and leisure services, ensuring that programs and services are accessible to all individuals, regardless of their abilities or backgrounds.
• Recreation and Leisure for Specific Populations: Explores the unique recreation and leisure needs of specific populations, such as children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.
• Recreation and Leisure Research: Introduces students to research methods and techniques used in the recreation and leisure field, enabling them to evaluate the effectiveness of programs and services.
• Supervised Field Placement: Provides students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a practical setting, working with community partners to develop and deliver recreation and leisure programs and services.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Assignments
• Exams
• Presentations
• Field placement evaluations
• Portfolio development

Assessment Criteria:

Assessment criteria may vary depending on the specific course and assessment method but typically include:

• Knowledge and understanding of course concepts
• Critical thinking and analytical skills
• Communication and presentation skills
• Practical skills and application of knowledge
• Professionalism and ethical conduct

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures
• Discussions
• Group work
• Case studies
• Role-playing
• Field trips
• Guest speakers

Faculty:

The program is taught by experienced faculty members who are actively involved in the recreation and leisure field. Faculty members have diverse backgrounds and expertise, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education.

Unique Approaches:

The program emphasizes experiential learning, providing students with ample opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills in practical settings through field placements and other hands-on activities. The program also incorporates a Global Citizenship and Equity portfolio, where students engage with global citizenship and equity competencies to develop a socially responsible mindset.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:

Graduates of the Recreation and Leisure Services program pursue careers in various settings, including:

• Community centers
• Parks and recreation departments
• Fitness centers
• Health clubs
• Hospitals
• Senior centers
• Non-profit organizations

Opportunities:

Graduates are qualified for entry-level positions such as:

• Recreation programmer
• Recreation coordinator
• Leisure service assistant
• Event planner
• Volunteer coordinator
• Community development worker

Outcomes:

Upon completing the program, graduates will be prepared to:

• Apply their knowledge and skills to develop, implement, and evaluate effective recreation and leisure programs and services.
• Work effectively with diverse populations, including individuals with disabilities and from various cultural backgrounds.
• Manage recreation and leisure facilities and events efficiently and safely.
• Pursue professional development opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge.
• Contribute to the well-being of individuals and communities through the provision of quality recreation and leisure experiences.