College Diploma - Recreation And Leisure Services (RELS) (co-op) at Georgian College - Program overview

This program is currently under review and being updated. For the most up-to-date information, please contact us.

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-03-05

Program overview

The Recreation and Leisure Services program at Georgian College is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the recreation and leisure industry. This program emphasizes the business aspects of recreation, offering a comprehensive curriculum that includes community recreation, outdoor adventure, arts, culture, and fitness. Students will also engage in experiential learning through a paid co-op work term, field trips, and industry certifications. This hands-on approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of various populations, from children to seniors, in a variety of recreational settings.

Program structure

The Recreation and Leisure Services program is structured to provide a well-rounded education over a 2-year period. The program is delivered in a full-time format with a hybrid approach, combining both in-person and online learning experiences. Key features of the program structure include:

Program Length: 2 Years
Credential: Ontario College Diploma, Co-op
Program Delivery: Full-time, Hybrid
Co-op work term component, allowing students to gain practical experience in a workplace related to their field of study.
Experiential learning opportunities, including field trips and industry certifications.

Students will develop competencies in leadership, group facilitation, and programming, preparing them for a successful career in recreation and leisure services.

Featured Experiences

The Recreation and Leisure Services program offers a variety of unique experiences that enhance learning and professional development:

Paid summer co-op work term as a recreation programmer, municipal summer staff supervisor, or resort event personnel.
Field trips to recreation facilities such as Variety Village and Bayview Wildwood Resort.
Industry-specific certifications, including HIGH FIVE.
Parks and Recreation Ontario student membership.
Outdoor recreation excursions to practice team-building and leadership skills.
Engagement with local community recreation organizations on real-life projects.

These experiences not only provide practical skills but also foster valuable connections within the industry.

Career Options

Graduates of the Recreation and Leisure Services program have a wide range of career opportunities available to them in Canada. Some potential job roles include:

Activity Director/Life Enrichment Coordinator: Oversee recreational programs in retirement homes and long-term care facilities, enhancing the quality of life for residents.
Adaptive/Therapeutic Recreation Specialist: Design and implement programs that cater to individuals with disabilities, promoting inclusion and wellness.
Municipal Recreation Programmer: Plan and manage community recreation programs and events, ensuring accessibility and engagement for all community members.
Facility Operations Manager: Oversee the daily operations of recreational facilities, ensuring safety, maintenance, and customer satisfaction.
Event Planner: Organize and coordinate recreational events, from community festivals to corporate retreats, ensuring successful execution and participant enjoyment.

These roles highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to make a positive impact in their communities through recreation and leisure services.

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

Visit Georgian College official website

Last updated on 2026-03-05

Program overview

Academic Requirements

The admission requirements for the Recreation and Leisure Services program at Georgian College are as follows:

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status.
Grade 12 English (C or U).
Mature students, non-secondary school applicants (19 years or older), and home school applicants may also be considered for admission. Eligibility may be met by applicants who have taken equivalent courses, upgrading, completed their GED, and equivalency testing.
Criminal Reference/Vulnerable Sector Check: Placement agencies require an up-to-date clear criminal reference check and vulnerable sector check prior to going out on placement. Students should obtain their criminal reference three months prior to placement; checks conducted earlier may not be considered current. A record of criminal offences, for which a pardon has not been granted, may prevent students from completing their placements, thereby affecting their ability to graduate.
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) requirements: All Georgian College students are required to bring their own device that meets the technology requirements for their program. Students are responsible for the cost, software installation, maintenance, and repair of their device.

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

For any clarification and support regarding the admission requirements, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

The language of instruction at Georgian College is English. All applicants for whom English is not their first language and/or are coming from countries where English is not an official language must provide proof of language proficiency.

Applicants must meet ONE of the following criteria to meet Georgian’s language proficiency requirements:

Must have completed three full years of study at the secondary school (high school) level in English in a country where English is a primary language.
Must have completed one full year of study in an accredited postsecondary program in English in a country where English is a primary language.
Must have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (or Canadian provincial equivalent) and English credit (Grade 12 U, M or C) issued by a public or Catholic school board.
Provide proof of graduation from one of the authorized Georgian College partner school pathway programs.
Must have completed two years of study at a secondary private school in Ontario and received an Ontario Secondary School Diploma and English credit (Grade 12 U, M or C).

Acceptable language tests include:

Examinations	Diploma/certificate	HBSN/ HBNA	Pharmacy Technician	Degree studies	Graduate certificate
Duolingo Language Test	110	140	N/A	120	130
TOEFL internet-based test (IBT)	79	89**	N/A	89**	89**
IELTS Academic only	6.0	7.0	Minimum bands of: 7.0 in Reading, 7.0 in Listening, 7.0 in Speaking, 6.5 in Writing	6.5	6.5
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL)/CAEL Online	60	N/A	N/A	60***	60***
Pearson Test of Academic English (PTE)	58	N/A	N/A	61	61

Note: English language tests older than two years will not be considered. 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!

Last updated on 2026-03-23

Program overview