Explore This Program
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.
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
- 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
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.
Need advice? A Student Admissions Advisor is here to support you.
Contact AdmissionsCareer 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
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
New start dates are being released all the time. Contact us for more dates.
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.
How It Works
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
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?
Contact Admissions
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.
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 neither available on campus or via Robertson Online.