College Diploma - Recreation Leadership

The two-year Recreation Leadership Diploma Program is the foundation required to be successful in both academic studies in Recreation Management and in a career in the field. The program is for students who excel at working with people and are looking to improve the quality of life in their communities through active, healthy and engaged connections. Recreation professionals help people improve their quality of life. It is a profession that builds people and by this action builds communities.

The Recreation Leadership Diploma Program features the following:

• Planning and running recreation programs and special events • Marketing and promoting recreation programs • Recreation facilities operations management • Organizing and staffing recreation programs and facilities • Public speaking skills • Facility design and operation • Professional presentation skills • Basic business skills • Leadership skills • How to partner with community groups, organizations and businesses

The Diploma in Recreation Leadership combines a strong foundation in the concepts and theory of recreation and leisure with leadership, communication, and business skills development tailored to a recreation practitioner. Practical experience is emphasized throughout the program, both in the classroom and in the field. In the diploma, students will gain a well-rounded and thorough understanding of the field of recreation, including facilities and other environments. Each student will have the opportunity to develop their personal portfolio within the recreation field and to directly apply their knowledge during internship. Students will learn how to effectively lead, instruct, facilitate, motivate, and supervise within the recreation field. They will learn how to design, implement, and market quality programs, services and special events for diverse participants. These skill sets will be able to be applied in a recreation, health promotion, community service, tourism, and/or volunteer setting. Graduates of the Diploma in Recreation Leadership have the skills, knowledge, and ability for direct leadership, instructor, and some entry-level supervisory jobs. With experience and on-going professional development, graduates can build a career in recreation or put this leadership skill set to use in another field.