Recreation Program Leader
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School of Community Services

Recreation Program Leader Diploma Program

Recreation Program Leader graduates have the foundational knowledge and skills to qualify for career opportunities as Recreation, Sports and Fitness Program Coordinators within the Recreation and Leisure sector.

Program Delivery

On-Campus

Online

Program Overview

The Recreation Program Leader graduate works in the recreation and leisure services industry and facilitates recreation programs in recreation departments, colleges, resorts, not-for-profit and other recreation facilities. Requiring strong organizational and communication skills, the Recreation Program Leader is integral to the effective running of recreation services within the communities and institutions.

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 Instructor 

Responsibilities include:

  • Designing and implementing recreation and leisure programming
  • Planning and running recreation special events
  • Facilitating different types of programs (therapeutic, sports-based, recreation and leisure, outdoor, etc.)
  • Promoting health and wellbeing
  • Partnering with community groups, organizations and businesses

 

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

Program Delivery

Online Learning
Online Learning

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

On-Campus Learning
On-Campus Learning

Study and collaborate with your peers on campus, with instructor support along the way

Program Details

Quick Facts

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Format:

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Practicum:

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Admission Requirements

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Career Opportunities

Graduates will find employment in businesses of all sizes, across a variety of sectors.

  • Recreation Service Coordinator
  • Recreation Worker
  • Events Assistant, Athletics
  • Fitness Attendant
  • Sports & Recreation Leader
  • Recreation Program Leader
  • Recreation Leader
  • Leisure Program Leader
  • Activities Leader – Senior
  • Activities Leader – Youth
  • Recreation Technician
You could be earning in less than a year
$31,200-$49,920
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Next Start Dates

To view enrolment dates for a specific location please select a Robertson College campus.

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Topics of Study

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.

Career Preparation (40 Hours)

This course introduces students to career preparation strategies. Students will be introduced to job search strategies, interviews and other career management strategies.

Health and Wellness Education (40 Hours)

*This course includes practical application (hands-on programming assignments)

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 wellbeing.

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, relevant models, standards of practice and regulatory guidelines. Students will explore emerging issues and trends within the discipline.

Introduction to Therapeutic Recreation (40 Hours)

This course introduces students to the field of therapeutic recreation. 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.

Outdoor Recreation (40 Hours)

*This course includes practical application

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.

Practicum (120 Hours)

The practicum experience is composed of an integrated work and learning experience. Students are expected to complete 120 hours of practical experience in a professional setting within the leisure, recreation, and fitness workplace environment. The course is designed to help students integrate academic learning with the realities of the work environment.

Program Planning (40 Hours)

*This course includes practical application

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.

Recreation Across the Lifespan (40 Hours)

*This course includes practical application

This course introduces students to human growth and development throughout the lifecycle. Physical, social, emotional and cognitive maturation across all stages of development from early childhood to older adulthood will be examined. Students will explore barriers to leisure and recreation participation, the impact of recreation on different age groups, and explore the value of recreation for different ages. Students will develop the skills to provide high-quality programming across the lifespan.

Special Events (40 Hours)

*This course includes practical application

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.

Tuition & Fees

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Estimated Total CA$8,995

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

Robertson offers a variety of financial aid opportunities to ease students’ stress and allow them to focus on their studies. If you need extra support, we have flexible funding to accommodate all our students, no matter their financial situation. Our dedicated Financial Aid Officers will help you every step of the way.

Questions about tuition & financial assistance?

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Online FAQs

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.

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.

Speak with admissions
1-431-668-2680
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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.

Select A Campus
Calgary
Edmonton
Winnipeg