Student Experience

What to Expect

Algonquin College is proud to provide a diverse and dynamic student experience. Check out the highlights below to get a sense of what to expect as a student in the Recreation and Leisure Services program.

  • Learn about trends and issues in recreation and responding to the recreation and leisure needs of the community.
  • Complete industry certifications in the program such as High Five Quest and Principles of Healthy Aging
  • Attend virtual conferences and workshops
  • Sharing your stories digitally through various community development initiatives
  • Prepares you for a career in the recreation field, and graduates will be programming, promoting and advocating for their community through recreation, sport and leisure activities working with people of all ages.
Recreation and Leisure Services students planning an activity with the professor in the athletics and recreation centre at the college

Success Stories and Testimonials

Tia, Student, Recreation and Leisure Services

Dakota, Student, Recreation and Leisure Services

 

“There’s not a single aspect that I don’t love about my job. Walking in and hearing everyone say hi as soon as I walk in, and helping people … it’s holding their hand and reading stories, and when loved ones can’t be there, that’s what I’m there for.”
-Lily, Graduate, Recreation and Leisure Services, Recreation Aide in Long-Term Care

“When looking back at the experiences that I had within the Recreation and Leisure Services program; the professors had opened there classrooms to authentic learning; using previous experiences within recreation and giving us guidance and tools to assist within the workplace. There is so much gratitude I need to give to the professors who have impeccable resumes and involvement in many multiple recreation professions. With this in mind, I do wish to grow my resume and work experience to fuel my passion within the recreation / health and wellness field. I find that the courses that best relate to my field of work would include: Facilities Management, Risk Management, Recreation Program Management and even Program Administration. These courses has given myself confidence and knowledge that is to applicable to my work duties and tasks. I am grateful for the material within the courses. I feel that it has prepped me for situations and tasks within my workplace. Being able to apply the knowledge taught; is rewarding to my hard work and dedication for success within the program and career. My Algonquin College experience has given me confidence and growth within my profession to become a leader. This has been rewarding to see others succeed and to continue to apply myself to strive for greatness.”
-Erika, Graduate, Recreation and Leisure Services, Students’ Association, Client Service Associate for the Jack Doyle Athletics and Recreation Centre

-Tamara, Graduate, 2015, Recreation and Leisure Services

Work Integrated Learning

You will develop relationships with a variety of community partners through approximately 300 hours of placement opportunities. There is currently a high demand for qualified graduates looking for careers and jobs in this field.

If you’re looking to continue your education after completing the Recreation and Leisure Services diploma be sure to check out the AC Pathways to transfer your credits earned to a university to pursue degrees in recreation, sport, community development or therapeutic recreation.