Shape the future of recreation and leisure
Recreation and Leisure Studies represents one of the world's largest and fastest growing industries.
Anything you are doing outside of work, school and sleeping, is some form of recreation and leisure.
Here at the University of Waterloo you'll learn from world-class professors how you can influence, encourage, and provide programs and services that help people maximize their quality of life.
Whether you're into sports marketing, ecotourism, therapeutic recreation, or event management, the opportunities are endless.
Meet Lauren, a current Recreation and Leisure Studies student. Find out what she really thinks about this program in her 73 questions video!
Your application in 4 steps
Whether you want to apply to Therapeutic Recreation; Sport and Recreation Management; or Recreation, Leadership and Health, you need to follow these steps:
1. Apply to Recreation and Leisure Studies (co-op or regular)
2. Choose one of three majors as your "subject of major interest"
3. You'll be admitted to the Recreation and Leisure Studies program
4. You'll be placed in the major you selected on your application
Recreation, Leadership, and Health
Plan, deliver, and manage recreation services to create healthy and happy communities.
Sport and Recreation Management
Combine recreation and sport courses with transferable business skills and get ready for a career in diverse industries.
Therapeutic Recreation
Help individuals overcome barriers and get the most out of life. Certifications eligible to apply for upon graduation include CTRA and TRO.
You also have the opportunity to pursue a double degree, joint honours degree, or choose from a selection of minors and options, including: Event Management Minor and Tourism Minor.
Visit campus
Join our Open Houses or book a tour (in person or virtual) to explore life at Waterloo!
Tuition and scholarships
Learn about funding and awards available to our domestic and international students.
Meet current students
“I chose this program because it’s broad. It covers a lot of my interests all the way from business to the community...and my huge love of sports."
My favourite part about the program is the hands-on learning experience in our classes. We get guest speakers who come in and, on top of that, field trips where we get to apply what we’re learning in the classroom and take action.
- Musabbiha, Recreation and Sport Business
Questions?
Questions about courses, programs, requirements, or careers?
Contact Clare Stevens, our Faculty of Health recruitment co-ordinator, who can answer any questions you have.