University of Waterloo

Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Recreation and Leisure Studies at the University of Waterloo offers a comprehensive education focused on the impact of recreation on physical, social, and mental well-being. This program equips students with the skills to plan, manage, and evaluate community recreation programs through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience.

What you'll study

Core Curriculum

• Essential topics related to leisure and well-being, emphasizing how recreation enhances quality of life.
• Techniques for program planning, management, and evaluation within community recreation settings.
• Fundamentals of event and service delivery, including coordination and operational planning.
• Marketing and communication strategies tailored for recreation and sport services.
• Innovative approaches to social entrepreneurship and community programming.

Elective Courses

• Select from 15 elective courses to customize your educational experience according to your career aspirations, with options available in health promotion, community development, and various aspects of sport and recreation.

Applied Learning Opportunities

• Engage in practicums and field-based learning experiences that connect classroom theory to real-world applications in community settings.

Note: Course availability and sequencing may vary by term; always consult academic advising resources to confirm your study plan.

Entry requirements

Admission to the program does not typically require GRE or GMAT scores for undergraduate candidates. While minimum GPA requirements may not be specified, it is advisable to review the university's entry criteria based on high school or previous educational background.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Recreation and Leisure Studies program are well-prepared for diverse career opportunities in community recreation and leisure management. Potential roles include program coordinators, recreation managers, event planners, and community development officers, among others. The skills acquired in this program empower graduates to make meaningful contributions to enhancing community well-being through recreation.