Recreation and Leisure Services Ontario College Diploma, Co-op program

Program Overview

The Recreation and Leisure Services Ontario College Diploma equips students with the skills and knowledge to create inclusive and impactful experiences in the diverse field of recreation and leisure. Through hands-on learning, industry certifications, and a paid co-op work term, graduates are prepared for careers in community recreation, outdoor adventure, event management, and more. The program emphasizes leadership, ethical practices, and a commitment to social responsibility and sustainability.

Program Outline

Recreation and Leisure Services Ontario College Diploma

Degree Overview:

This program equips students with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in the diverse field of recreation and leisure services. It provides a strong foundation in program design, community recreation, outdoor adventure, event management, facility operations, leadership development, and entrepreneurship. The curriculum integrates theoretical concepts with hands-on learning opportunities, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the industry and its various career paths.

Objectives:

• To develop competent recreation and leisure professionals capable of creating inclusive, engaging, and impactful experiences for diverse populations.
• To equip graduates with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking necessary for effective program design, management, and evaluation within various sectors of the industry.
• To cultivate leadership qualities and a commitment to ethical practices, promoting social responsibility and sustainability within recreation and leisure settings.

Program Description:

• Students gain a strong grounding in various aspects of recreation and leisure, including:
• Community Recreation
• Outdoor Recreation and Adventure Programming
• Arts and Culture Programming
• Heritage Preservation and Celebration
• Fitness and Wellness
• Retirement and Long-Term Care Activities
• Adaptive and Therapeutic Recreation
• Facility Management and Operations
• Business administration fundamentals are integrated into the curriculum, covering areas such as:
• Marketing
• Accounting
• Technology
• Human Resources Management
• Entrepreneurship
• Research Methods

Experiential Learning:

The core element of the program is a hands-on, experiential learning approach that includes:

• Paid Co-operative Education Work Term: Students gain practical industry experience by working in a relevant placement for one semester, acquiring valuable workplace skills and building professional connections.
• Field Trips: Visits to various recreation facilities, organizations, and event locations provide real-world context and insights.
• Participation in Events and Programs: Students actively engage in planning and executing recreation programs and events, gaining hands-on experience in event management, leadership, and program delivery.
• Industry Certifications: Opportunities to obtain industry-recognized credentials, like HIGH FIVE, enhance employability and demonstrate professional competency.
• Parks and Recreation Ontario Student Membership: Provides access to professional development resources, networking opportunities, and industry updates.
• Outdoor Adventure Excursion: A dedicated trip allows students to practice their teamwork, leadership, and outdoor recreation facilitation skills in a practical setting.
• Community Project Engagement: Collaboration with local community organizations on real-life projects provides valuable experience in program development, implementation, and community engagement.

Outline (2024-2025 Program):

Year One:

First Semester

• COMP 1058 – Technology in Administration
• REAS 2003 – Research in Recreation and Sport
• RECR 1000 – Introduction to Recreation
• RECR 1001 – Program Planning
• One Communications course
• One General Education course
Second Semester
• RECR 2102 – Outdoor Recreation
• RECR 2113 - Fitness, Wellness, and Active Living
• RECR 2114 – Event Management in the Recreation Sector
• RECR 3218 – Facility Operations and Management
• One Communications course

Year Two:

First Semester

• RECR 2103 – Leadership and Group Dynamics
• RECR 2110 - Programming for Inclusive Leisure
• RECR 3203 - Marketing in the Recreation and Leisure Service Sector
• RECR 3416 – Recreation Leadership Field Placement
• One General Education course
Second Semester
• RECR 4003 – Community Recreation
• RECR 3213 – Administration in Recreation and Leisure Services
• RECR 4000 – Co-operative Education Work Term (14-week paid placement)

Assessment:

• Continuous assessment throughout the program takes various forms:
• Assignments
• Individual and group projects
• Presentations
• Case Studies
• Exams
• Practical demonstrations of skills and knowledge through the co-operative education work term and field placements
• Performance evaluations during field experiences and co-op placements
• The specific assessments within each course are outlined in the individual course descriptions available in the program outline document.
• Grading is based on a percentage system, and students must achieve a minimum grade of 60% for each course to successfully complete the program and receive the diploma.

Teaching:

• Instruction is delivered by experienced faculty members with extensive expertise in various areas of the recreation and leisure industry.
They employ diverse teaching methods, fostering active learning environments that promote critical thinking, collaboration, and practical application.
• The program utilizes a blended learning approach that combines classroom instruction, online learning modules, and practical, hands-on experiences.
This approach ensures accessibility, flexibility, and engagement with the material.
• Guest speakers from various sectors within the industry are also incorporated into the program, providing students with valuable insights and networking opportunities.

Careers:

Graduates of the Recreation and Leisure Services program are prepared for diverse and rewarding career paths, including but not limited to:

• Retirement Home and Long-Term Care Activity Director/Life Enrichment Coordinator
• Adaptive/Therapeutic Recreation Specialist
• Facility and Parks Operations Manager
• Municipal Programmer
• Administrator in:
• Community Organizations
• Arts, Heritage and Cultural Organizations
• Recreation Leader/Director/Facilitator at Registered Charities
• Athletics Coordinator in Educational Institutions
• Fitness and Healthy/Active Lifestyle Centres Manager
• Private and Commercial Club Manager/Coordinator
• Event Planning Services Owner/Coordinator
• Recreation Supervisor in:
• Youth Organizations
• Correction Facilities
• Resorts