School of Community Services

Recreation Coordinator – Fitness & Facilities

Gain the skills to develop and facilitate programs that promote leisure, recreation and sport in your community. Students will choose to specialize in either the Facilities or Fitness stream.

Program Delivery

Online

Program Overview

The health and fitness industry is booming as more Canadians are committed to improving their mental and physical wellbeing. This program is great for students who want to get their foot in the door to the industry, or are wanting to grow in their current career. Upon completion of this program, students will have the skills to coordinate fitness programs or operate a fitness facility

This program is licensed under Alberta’s Private Vocational Training Act (PVTA) and Manitoba’s Private Vocational Institutions Act (PVIA).

The Recreation Coordinator Fitness and Facilities program has two streams for students to choose from, each specialized so students can find a meaningful role to apply their skills firsthand. Students who pursue the Fitness stream can find work as Recreation Coordinators, developing programs that facilitate leisure, recreation and sport within the community. Students who want more of an administrative role can pursue the Facilities stream and find work running recreation and fitness facilities. This role uses business management and leadership skills to oversee recreational sport in an organization. Graduates can find work in a variety of environments including long-term care facilities, community centres, city programming as well as university and college recreational programs.

The coursework for this program is facilitated through Robertson Online and our Virtual Classroom, giving our students the ultimate flexibility as they pursue a meaningful career. While you’ll be completing the program remotely, you’ll have instructor support along the way in the form of online office hours and virtual meetings.

This program also has a mandatory 120 hour practicum before graduation. When it’s your time to shine, you’ll work with the WorkForce team to find a placement that matches your skills and meets your goals. Your practicum is a great way to apply your skills with industry professionals in a real work environment, so when you look for that first job, you’ll have experience in your back pocket.

Program Delivery

Online Learning

  • Study on your own schedule with the option to attend live lectures throughout the week to connect with your instructor.
  • Remote learning doesn't mean you're doing it on your own! You will always have the support of your instructors and education team through video calls, discussion boards and more.
  • Brightspace helps you stay on track and hold you accountable while giving you flexibility.

Visit our Online Learning to learn more about this delivery format.

Program Details

Quick Facts

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Duration:

41 Weeks (10.25 Months)

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Practicum:

3 weeks
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Admission Requirements

Our admissions agents can work with you to ensure you meet the program’s criteria. This program is not currently open to International Students.

Contact Admissions

Endorsements

This program has been reviewed and attested to by various managers in the recreation field across Canada.

The Recreation Program Coordinator, Fitness and Facilities program is endorsed by Recreation Manitoba.

Career Opportunities

More and more people are committed to their physical and mental health and in response, the Canadian fitness industry continues to grow. From 2015 to 2020, the Gym, Health and Fitness Clubs industry saw a 4.1% spike in revenue, indicating an increase in health consciousness among Canadians. The fitness industry is a big one and there are plenty of opportunities to get your foot in the door.

Students in both our Fitness and Facilities specializations could find work in the following industries:

  • Aquatic Facilities
  • Senior Facilities
  • Community-Based Athletic Organizations
  • Active Living Facilities
  • Government
  • Colleges & Universities
  • Recreation Departments 
  • Athletic Teams & Sports Facilities
  • Nursing Homes
  • Youth Programs
  • Armed Forces Services

Employment opportunities for students in our Fitness specialization include:

  • Recreation Fitness Coordinator
  • Leisure Program Coordinator
  • Fitness Programming Coordinator
  • Fitness Consultant
  • Recreation Counsellor
  • Fitness Facilities Coordinator
  • Community Sports and Active Living Coordinator
  • Fitness & Sports Instructor

Employment opportunities for students in our Facilities specialization include:

  • Recreation Operations Coordinator
  • Community Center Program Coordinator
  • Youth Camp Coordinator
  • Seniors Home Lifestyle Coordinator

Lifetime Career Services

Even though you’ll leave Robertson once you graduate, we will support you throughout your career. Our team will help you with resume building, job hunting and interview preparation and will continue to guide you as you advance in your role.

Before you graduate, you’ll be paired with a career specialist in your field who will help you find a meaningful place to start your career. As a graduate, you’ll have lifelong access to student services that are committed to your success and helping you thrive.

Learn more about Lifetime Career Services.

Next Start Dates

Online on your own time with 3 real-time optional sessions per week with your instructor.

May 27, 2024
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New start dates are being released all the time. Contact us for more dates.

Topics of Study

Core Course Classes (400 Hours)

Health and Wellness Education  (40 Hours)

In this course, students will explore the concept of health and wellness and the role of leisure and recreation activities in helping individuals in leading enjoyable, healthy and satisfying lives. Students will explore the factors that influence health and develop an understanding of the recreation practitioner’s role in supporting health and well-being.


Introduction to Recreation and Leisure Programming  (40 Hours)

This course introduces students to the field of recreation and leisure studies. The course will provide students with the opportunity to understand the significance and impact of the field on society, and on individual health and wellness. Students will be introduced to the history of the field of, relevant models, standards of practice and regulatory guidelines. Finally, students will explore emerging issues and trends within the discipline.


Program Planning  (40 Hours)

This course provides students with theoretical and practical experiences in developing recreation and leisure programming. Students will be introduced to the different stages of the program design including program planning implementation, evaluation and monitoring. Students will be introduced to reporting and record-keeping requirements associated with recreation and leisure programming.


Special Events  (40 Hours)

This course provides students with the theory and practical understanding required to successfully plan and deliver a special event. Course topics include using planning models, event themes, site selection, promotion, risk management, and event administration. This course will give students the opportunity to understand the complex issues and relationships that surround event planning.


Fiscal Planning  (40 Hours)

This course provides students with the practical skills to manage the financial operations of leisure and recreation programs. In this course, students will review basic mathematical processes, and be introduced to accounting and banking. Students will develop the skills to develop and present budgets, and read and present financial statements. Students will also develop the skills to work with the grant proposal process and develop effective fundraising skills.


Marketing and Entrepreneurship  (40 Hours)

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of marketing as it applies to the delivery of leisure and recreation programming. In this course, students will develop an understanding of marketing theory, entrepreneurship, marketing processes and techniques, market planning and facilitating excellent customer service. Students will also be introduced to entrepreneurship and personal business planning. This course introduces students to the importance of effective marketing and entrepreneurship in support of leisure, fitness and recreation programming.


Risk Management  (40 Hours)

This course introduces students to the challenge of risk management within the sport and recreation industries. Topics covered will include the concepts of negligence and liability, standards of care, assessing and controlling hazards, and emergency planning. Students will understand the role of law, standards, and regulations in reducing risk.


Business Communication  (60 Hours)

This course provides students with the knowledge and tools to communicate effectively and professionally in the workplace. Students will be introduced to essential skills in writing, speaking, formal presentations and the use of technology to enhance workplace communication. Business communication is necessary to relay messages that affect company goals, vision, and culture. Developing professional business communication skills is essential for long-term career success.


Career Preparation (40 Hours)

This course introduces students to the idea of professionalism and preparation for employment. Students will be introduced to the professional standards and skills required within their industry. Specific skills related to employability such as developing a resume, networking, career paths, and professional learning will be covered. This course will develop your capacity to become a skilled and insightful professional.


Standard CPR and First Aid  (20 Hours)

In this course, students will learn first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) C skills for those who need training due to work requirements or who want more knowledge to respond to emergencies at home. The course will be taught by a certified first aide instructor and will meet provincial legislation requirements. Upon successful completion, students will receive certification in Standard First Aid, CPR Level C and AED.

 

Fitness Specialization (320 Hours)

Anatomy and Physiology  (40 Hours)

This course introduces students to the anatomy and physiology of the various body systems. Students will develop an understanding of the structure and function of these systems, as well as basic medical terminology and common diseases and disorders of each. Students will understand the importance of anatomy and physiology in understanding health, wellness, fitness and injury.


Exercise Physiology I  (40 Hours)

This course introduces students to coaching practice and the development of a personal coaching philosophy. Students will understand the needs of athletes and teams and develop the skills necessary to support effective coaching.
Students will develop a broad understanding of a variety of common sports and plan effective training sessions for those sports. Students will also learn how to organize and manage a team and deepen their understanding of ethical issues in sport.


Exercise Physiology II  (40 Hours)

This course develops student’s understanding of how the body functions during exercise. Students will be introduced to how body systems respond to exercise and explore flexibility, cardiovascular and resistance health. Understanding how the body works, in relation to movement and exercise is essential for health and fitness professionals.


Exercise Programming  (40 Hours)

In this course, students will develop the theoretical and practical skills to design safe and effective exercise programs for individuals and groups. Students will develop the skills to understand the theory and principles behind effective exercise programming and develop skills to teach and monitor exercise programming. This course develops student’s understanding of the factors involved in effective exercise program design and delivery.


Fitness Assessment  (40 Hours)

This course introduces students to fitness assessment and documentation skills. In this course, students will develop an understanding of fitness assessment theory and principles. Students will learn to conduct assessments and choose assessments that are appropriate to different populations. Students will understand the risks associated with fitness testing and when to terminate an assessment. Finally, the course will introduce students to effective methods for documenting work with clients.


Sport and Exercise Psychology  (40 Hours)

This course introduces students to the discipline of sport and exercise psychology. In exercise psychology, students will learn what influences exercise behaviour in the individual and in the group. Focus will be on the psychological interventions for increasing exercise participation and adherence. In sport psychology, students will examine how psychological factors influence and are influenced by participation and performance in sport. Focus will be on personality, motivation, arousal, concentration, confidence, and competition.


Coaching  (40 Hours)

This course introduces students to coaching practice and the development of a personal coaching philosophy. Students will understand the needs of athletes and teams and develop the skills necessary to support effective coaching. Students will develop a broad understanding of a variety of common sports and plan effective training sessions for those sports. Students will also learn how to organize and manage a team and deepen their understanding of ethical issues in sport.


Nutrition  (40 Hours)

This course introduces students to nutritional concepts and planning. Students will develop an understanding of nutrition, the factors influencing nutritional health, and develop an understanding of special diets. Students will develop the practical skills to assess and help client outcomes for healthy eating.

Facilities Specialization (320 Hours)

Leadership  (40 Hours)

This course introduces students to the topic of leadership within the sport and recreation field. Topics explored will include leadership theory, developing a personal philosophy of leadership, and understanding group and organizational behaviors. This course provides  students  with  the  skills  to manage more complex group dynamics  and organizational behaviors,  required  within leadership positions.


IT for Recreation Management  (40 Hours)

This course introduces students to relevant computer applications and technology skills within the sport and recreation industries. Students will become familiar with sport and recreation computer software and information systems, such as CLASS. They will also develop the ability to use common applications (Microsoft, Excel, Access and PowerPoint) to create spreadsheets, charts, documents, posters, lists and schedules for recreation management purposes.


Facility Management  (40 Hours)

This course provides students with the theoretical and practical understanding to contribute to the safe and effective management of recreation facilitates. Students will develop an understanding of different recreation and leisure facilities models and facilities design considerations. Students will develop an understanding of maintenance responsibilities, standards and legislation, and develop an understanding of environmental considerations.


Human Resource Management (40 Hours)

This course examines the contemporary role of the manager in the recreation and leisure industry. Students will be introduced to a variety of management functions related to human resource management, such as staffing, supervision, collective bargaining, employment law, and staff development.


Arts, Culture and Heritage in Recreation  (40 Hours)

This course introduces students to the influence of arts, culture and heritage in recreation and leisure programming. Students will explore the vital role of these in fostering vibrant communities and enhancing the personal quality of life. Students will explore different models, locations, and facilitation methods. Students will become aware of the scope and diversity of leisure and lifestyle opportunities that are available to both themselves and the various client groups.


Outdoor Recreation  (40 Hours)

This course provides students with the practical  skills to support  outdoor recreation within a variety of environments. Students  will be introduced  to outdoor recreation activities, required equipment, how to select venues and risk- reduction strategies. Students will be given the opportunity to apply these skills within an outdoor setting.


Recreation Across the Lifespan  (40 Hours)


Introduction to Therapeutic Recreation  (40 Hours)

The course will provide students with the opportunity to understand the significance and impact of the field on society, and individual health and wellness. Students will be introduced to the history of the field, relevant models, standards of practice and regulatory guidelines. Students will explore emerging issues and trends within the discipline.

How It Works

Getting Started

Our flexible start dates give you plenty of opportunities to plan for school and live your life around it.

Taking the Course

All Robertson Online courses are hosted on Brightspace, an online platform designed to give you everything you need to succeed in remote learning.

Entering the Workforce

Our programs set you up to adapt to industry changes and thrive in our modern digital workforce.

Visit the How It Works page to learn more about our online student experience. To learn more about how Brightspace gives you everything you need to succeed in your online courses, click here.

Financial Assistance & Funding

Education is a big decision, and we are here to help should you require extra support. We offer personalized payment plans so you can break your tuition payments into affordable amounts throughout the year. You may also be eligible for a student line of credit, government loans, scholarships or bursaries.

Learn more about our funding opportunities.

Questions about tuition & financial assistance?

Contact Admissions

Work Experience Practicum

The practicum is an essential part of a learner’s program. It is both a graduation requirement and an extension of in-class learning. The practicum asks you to apply the skills, theories, and concepts that you learned in your classes in an entry-level work experience situation. 

Practicum must begin and end within the dates outlined in your program schedule and enrolment contract. Practicum is a full-time, unpaid commitment, and is jointly-procured — where you work directly with our Practicum team to obtain a training-related placement.  Your active participation with our Practicum team in the search for your practicum placement will enhance your career development skills, industry networking opportunities, and professional communication skills.

Why pursue a career in Recreation and Fitness?

This is an extremely rewarding industry to join if you want to help people improve their quality of life. The Recreation and Fitness field is all about wellness and promoting healthy lifestyles and it’s only growing as more people are putting their health first.

Graduating with this certificate will give you the opportunity to work in a dynamic, active environment. Forget the typical desk job – you’ll get to work on your feet, be active and each day will bring something new to the table.

Which stream is for you?

If you’re interested in helping others explore a healthy lifestyle or have some existing fitness training, you may enjoy the Fitness specialization as you get to be more active in your role.

If you’re interested in more of a leadership or administrative role and enjoy brainstorming ways programming can benefit an organization, you may prefer the Facilities specialization.

Both streams give you the opportunity to make a positive impact in your community and improve the health and wellbeing of the people living in it.

Let's Get Started

Simply fill out the form below and one of our Student Advisors will provide any extra information you need and get your account activated as early as today.

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1 (204) 943-5661
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Program Availability

This program is neither available on campus or via Robertson Online.

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