Recreation, Leadership, and Health degree

Graduates often pursue careers in areas such as event management, program coordination, education, not-for-profit administration, facilities management, and community development.

The careers listed below are examples of what you might be able to pursue. Through the courses you take, specializations you choose, extracurriculars, and any work experience you gain, you'll graduate with a degree that's uniquely you and be ready to pursue a career that's right for you!

Recreation program coordinator

Create programs that bring people together, turning ideas into engaging, active experiences. From organizing sports leagues to coordinating community events, your work would help build connections and promote healthy lifestyles.

Camp director

In this role, you’ll shape an environment where experiences are fun, safe, and meaningful. Managing staff, designing programs, and overseeing day-to-day operations all contribute to creating memorable moments for campers.

Community engagement specialist

Build strong connections between organizations and communities to help create programs that truly make a difference. Through relationship-building, event planning, and inclusive initiatives, your work encourages participation and a sense of belonging. You’ll thrive here if you enjoy making communities feel more connected and supported.

Wellness program coordinator

You’ll design programs that support physical, mental, and social well-being. You would organize workshops, fitness initiatives, and activities that help people live healthier lifestyles.

Event planner

Organize events such as festivals, conferences, or community gatherings. You would handle logistics, coordinate teams, and ensure every detail comes together to create a great experience.

Outdoor recreation leader

Guide activities like hiking, canoeing, or adventure programs. You would teach skills, ensure safety, and help participants build confidence while exploring nature.

Youth program leader

Work with children and teens in recreational or leadership-based settings. You would create activities that build teamwork, confidence, and life skills in a supportive environment.

Corporate wellness facilitator

Help companies create healthier and more engaging workplaces. You would run wellness challenges, organize team-building activities, and support employee well-being initiatives.

Volunteer coordinator

Recruit, train, and manage volunteers for organizations or events. You would ensure volunteers feel supported and are making a meaningful impact in their roles.

Leadership development facilitator

Design and lead programs that help people build leadership skills. You would run workshops, guide group activities, and support participants in growing their confidence and ability to lead.

Recreation facility manager

Oversee places like community centres, arenas, or fitness facilities. You would manage operations, coordinate staff, and ensure visitors have safe and enjoyable experiences.

Inclusion and accessibility coordinator

You’ll help ensure programs and spaces are welcoming to people of all abilities and backgrounds. You would develop strategies and adapt activities so everyone can participate fully.

Sport and recreation administrator

Help manage sports organizations or recreational services. You would handle planning, budgeting, and coordination to keep programs running smoothly and successfully.

Experiential education facilitator

Lead hands-on learning experiences, often through outdoor or group-based activities. You would guide participants through challenges that build teamwork, communication, and personal growth.

Community health promotion associate

Support programs that encourage healthier lifestyles through recreation and education. You would help plan activities, connect with community members, and promote well-being through active living.

Learn about Jonathan's unique career path following his graduation from Recreation and Leisure Studies or discover the future of careers in health and helping professions.

Read profiles and view videos about the path Recreation graduates took to pursue their career.

Further education

While the full range of further education depends on your individual interests, these are common areas where graduates pursued a master's, PhD, or other professional program.

What’s the difference between Recreation, Leadership, and Health and similar programs at other universities and colleges?

Waterloo was the first university in Canada to have a Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies and we continue to have a strong reputation among employers.

In 2024, we renamed the Recreation and Leisure Studies major to Recreation, Leadership, and Health and updated our curriculum to keep it current, relevant, and give you an edge in the workplace. You’ll learn about the recreation industry, tourism, events, and management, and put that knowledge through the lens of sustainability, Indigeneity, and social justice. Pair this curriculum with experiential learning opportunities like co-op and our EDGE certificate program and you'll have a distinct advantage when pursuing your career or further education.

What’s the difference between a college diploma and a university degree in recreation?

Entry-level careers might be similar for diploma and degree holders, but many diploma holders eventually pursue a degree in order to expand their career options. While a degree usually takes longer to complete, it usually covers more theoretical knowledge that can help you create and adapt to major changes in the industry. Having an undergraduate degree also means that you can more easily pursue further education such as a Master’s degree that can expand career options even further.

How long does it take to complete this program?

• It takes four years to complete this program as a full-time student through the regular system of study in which you’ll take courses between September and April each year and have your summers off.
• You can also choose the co-op system of study where you’ll alternate between full-time studies and full-time jobs related to your program. A co-op program takes five years to complete —€“ and you’ll graduate with nearly two years of paid work experience.
• It could also be completed over a longer period as a part-time program.

Is this program available online?

No. While you may be able to take some courses online, most courses required for the degree are available through in-person classes only.