Explore This Program
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 programs or operate a fitness facility.
Instructor Testimonials
“I have been working as an instructor at Robertson College for 3 years. The staff is always energetic and knowledgeable and adds value and excitement to my job. Love being a part of this amazing College!” — Tetyana Pavlyna, Robertson Insturctor
This program is licensed under Alberta’s Private Vocational Training Act (PVTA) and Manitoba’s Private Vocational Institutions Act (PVIA).
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

Study on your own schedule with the option to attend live lectures throughout the week to connect with your instructor

Study and collaborate with your peers on campus, with instructor support along the way
Program Details
Admission Requirements
Contact AdmissionsEndorsements
This program has been reviewed and attested to by various managers in the recreation field across Canada.
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 our Facilities specializations could find work in the following industries:
- Aquatic Facilities
- Senior Facilities
- Community-Based Athletic Organizations
- Active Living Facilities
- Government
- Colleges & Universities
- Recreation DepartmentsÂ
- Athletic Teams & Sports Facilities
- Nursing Homes
- Youth Programs
- Armed Forces Services
- Recreation Operations Coordinator
- Community Center Program Coordinator
- Youth Camp Coordinator
- Seniors Home Lifestyle Coordinator
Navigate Your Career with Workforce
At Workforce, we commit to your success from enrolment to graduation and beyond. Our dedicated team of experts will provide you free lifetime career services — whether you need help securing a practicum placement, building a compelling resume, preparing for interviews and everything in between. No matter where your career journey takes you, we’ll be here, supporting you every step of the way.
Next Start Dates
To view enrolment dates for a specific location please select a Robertson College campus.
Select A CampusTopics 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.
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.
Tuition & Fees

Total amount is inclusive of all program registration fees, training completion fund, ebooks and courseware. The tuition amount for Manitoba enrolment contracts also encompasses a Training Completion Fund (TCF) fee.
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 AdmissionsWork Experience Practicum
Practicum is a chance to gain real-world experience in your field of study, and it brings you one step closer to your career!
Apply Your Knowledge
Turn what you’ve learned into real-world action by embracing challenges and exploring business opportunities.
Gain Hands-on Experience
Impress your employer to boost your hiring chances. Our Workforce Team will guide you in securing a practicum that provides valuable experience.
Build Industry Connections
Make a strong impression during your practicum. Even if not hired, your host can be a key reference in your job search.
Tailored for Success
The Workforce Team will match your practicum to your strengths and career goals, setting you up for a successful start.
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.
Program Availability
This program is offered at multiple Robertson College campus locations. Select a campus below to view campus specific information, like schedule information and enrolment dates.