Recreation And Leisure Services at Algonquin College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-01-21

Program overview

The Recreation and Leisure Services Ontario College Diploma program is a two-year program designed to prepare students for a career in programming within recreation facilities, parks, and community settings. This program emphasizes the importance of promoting and advocating for active, healthy living through engaging recreation and leisure activities. Students will gain practical experience through over 300 hours of field placement, which equips them with essential on-the-job training in the recreation and leisure services industry.

Program structure

The Recreation and Leisure Services program is structured to provide a comprehensive education over a duration of two years. The program includes:

Field placement opportunities that allow students to gain hands-on experience in real-world settings.
Industry-related certifications, such as High Five and Principles of Healthy Aging.
Courses delivered in various formats, including classroom, hybrid, and online learning.

Students will engage in a variety of learning activities that are integral to their professional development, ensuring they are well-prepared for their future careers in recreation and leisure services.

Featured Experiences

Over 300 hours of valuable field placement experience, providing practical training in the industry.
Opportunities to work with community partners to develop, promote, and coordinate recreation programs.
Hands-on learning through field projects that are essential for completing the program.
Participation in industry-related certifications to enhance employability.

Career Options

Graduates of the Recreation and Leisure Services program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Recreation Programmer: Develops and implements recreational programs for communities, ensuring they meet the needs of diverse populations.
Event Planner: Organizes and coordinates events, ensuring all aspects run smoothly and meet client expectations.
Program Coordinator: Oversees the planning and execution of recreational programs, managing staff and resources effectively.
Community Development Worker: Engages with community members to promote healthy living and develop recreational opportunities.
Therapeutic Recreation Specialist: Works in healthcare settings to design and implement recreational activities that support the rehabilitation and well-being of individuals.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit Algonquin College official website

Last updated on 2026-01-21

Program overview

Academic Requirements

All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.

College Eligibility:

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent; OR
Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing, for which a fee will be charged.

Program Eligibility:

English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).
Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject-specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

Health Requirements:

The physical and emotional health of each applicant to the program must be such that they can successfully cope with the program of instruction including the demands of field placement (e.g. stress and time management). Individuals who have concerns about their ability to meet these requirements should contact the coordinator of the program prior to submitting an application.

Field Placement Eligibility:

Field placements occur in the first and second year of the program. Hospital and Field Placements/Outreach require Health & Safety, WHMIS and OWHSA training, and de-escalation training prior to placements. There are additional costs associated with training that should be anticipated by students which are not covered by tuition fees.

To be eligible for placement, you must submit proof of Standard First Aid certification, CPR level C, PRCSVS, and complete immunizations through ParaMed and pay associated costs. ParaMed services are the third-party provider who collects all field placement documentation for the School of Health and Community Studies.

For any clarification and support, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

To apply for the Recreation and Leisure Services Ontario College Diploma program, applicants must meet the following language proficiency requirements:

IELTS - International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band.
TOEFL - Internet-based (iBT) overall score of 80, with a minimum of 20 in each component:
- Reading: 20
- Listening: 20
- Speaking: 20
- Writing: 20
Duolingo English Test (DET) - Overall score of 110, with a minimum of 110 in Literacy and no score below 95.

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!