COURSE CURRICULUM

The Recreation and Leisure Studies (REC) program offers a diverse and dynamic curriculum designed to prepare students for leadership roles in recreation, sport, tourism, and therapeutic practice. Starting with foundational courses such as REC100 Introduction to the Study of Recreation and Leisure and REC101 Introduction to Leisure, Sport, and Recreation Management, students explore a wide range of topics including equity and inclusion (REC201), event planning and marketing (REC215, REC319), and outdoor recreation (REC230). The program emphasizes practical experience through practicum courses like REC253 and REC312, and internships such as REC450, which provide hands-on learning in therapeutic recreation and community engagement. Specialized courses address therapeutic recreation for developmental, emotional, and physical disabilities (REC251, REC252, REC351), while others focus on leadership and program evaluation (REC318, REC420) to develop management skills. Students also study critical issues in leisure and tourism, including social entrepreneurship (REC218), tourism impacts (REC383), and ecotourism (REC433). Research skills are honed through courses in quantitative and qualitative methods (REC371, REC373), with opportunities for honours thesis projects (REC471A/B) and independent studies. By blending theory, research, and applied practice, this program equips graduates to design inclusive, innovative recreation programs that promote healthy, connected communities and sustainable development in diverse settings.