Recreation and Community Development

Program Overview

Leadership, volunteerism, social awareness—these are characteristics shared by people working in recreation and community development. It’s a growth industry, and Saskatchewan Polytechnic's new Recreation and Community Development program will help turn your passion into a dynamic career.

Be a recreation director, manager of sport, recreation and culture, community development officer, facility manager or special events manager. Your skills are in demand in rural and urban communities.

Recreation and Community Development (formerly Recreation and Tourism Management) is a two-year diploma program offered at Saskatchewan Polytechnic Saskatoon Campus. The comprehensive curriculum is relevant to real world trends, thanks to strong support from the industry. You’ll learn:

event planning
communication and computer skills
community and economic development
environmental sustainability
management skills
leadership skills
legal aspects
camp practices

With average class sizes of 20-25 students, you’ll enjoy a personalized learning experience and one-on-one time with instructors. You’ll gain both industry-specific knowledge and core management skills.

Get Real

The program provides a variety of opportunities for you to apply what you’ve learned in practical labs and projects, in work experiences and in volunteer opportunities. You’ll develop the professional skills you need to help build active, healthy, sustainable communities.

How Many Programs Have ‘Camp’ on the Curriculum?

We have our own outdoor camp on the north side of Candle Lake. You and your classmates will spend one week at Fall Camp and another week at Winter Camp planning outdoor programs and leading outdoor education and recreational activities. It’s a great environment for building your cultural, environmental and community development skills.

Start Building Your Network

Start building your network with student membership in industry associations, including Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association (SPRA), Saskatchewan Economic Development Association (SEDA) and Saskatchewan Association of Recreation Practitioners (SARP).

Turn Your Diploma into a Degree

Saskatchewan Polytechnic is your ladder into the Sport and Recreation Studies program at the University of Regina, the Business Administration program at Husson University/University of Fredericton in New Brunswick, the Global Tourism Management program at Royal Roads University in Victoria, B.C. and the Tourism Management program at Vancouver Island University.

Career and Salary Information

Your Career

When you graduate, look for management and administrative opportunities in the public sector: municipal leisure departments, regional community development organizations, health districts, fitness facilities and national parks.

Potential Careers

Sample Job Title	NOC Classification¹	Earning Potential²
"Manager Sport, Recreation and Culture"	Recreation, Sports and Fitness Program Service Directors (513)	$33,700 - $96,000
Special Events Manager	Conference and Event Planners (1226)	$26,500 - $75,500
Community Development Consultant	Business Development Officers and Marketing Researchers and Consultants (4163)	$46,800 - $104,600

Length and Start Date

Start Date(s):

September

Length: 65 weeks

Year 1 - 31 weeks; Year 2 - 34 weeks

Locations

Saskatoon

Admissions

Admission Requirements

Grade 12 with the following subjects:
- English Language Arts A30
- English Language Arts B30
- Any 30-level math
English Language Requirement

Note:

Students will need to have experience with basic computer applications such as Microsoft Office prior to entering the program

Special Admission

Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through a special admission assessment. Interested individuals should still apply. Applicants are automatically considered for special admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met. Refer to the ACCUPLACER© cut scores for this program below, and review additional details concerning Special Admission.

ACCUPLACER©

75 Arithmetic
65 Reading
65 Sentence
4 WritePlacer

Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of Saskatchewan Polytechnic programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake.

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year.

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

See Admission Processes for more information about this method of admission.

Tuition and Fees

Estimates are based on current rates and are subject to change. Amounts for a program may vary by campus. Totals shown here include all mandatory fees as well as books and supplies. For a complete breakdown of tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the Saskatchewan Polytechnic campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.

Year 1 - $6,400

Courses

Expand All +

Year 1 - Semester 1

Code

Name/Description

Credits

ACCT 170

Financial Accounting

You will learn how to apply accounting principles for non-profit organizations and service industries. The bookkeeping cycle (journal, ledger, trial balance and financial statements) for a service firm will be emphasized.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): ACCT 122, ACCT 191, BKPG 180
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

COAP 177

Computer Applications in Recreation

You will study computer fundamentals designed to increase computer literacy and expose you to a range of technologies used in organizations. Emphasis will be placed on using spreadsheets and using publishing software to create charts and newsletters.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

COMM 295

Business and Technical Writing

You will receive instruction and practice in written communication skills needed as a professional. You will review grammar and the mechanics of writing, study and practice research skills and technique, and produce examples of business and technical writing.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): BCOM 120, COMM 262
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

LEAD 180

Leadership and Group Dynamics

You will be introduced to the concepts of leadership and group dynamics. You will be introduced to the theory of leadership, ethics and professionalism. The course will focus on group processes and their practical application including the collaborative process, conducting meetings, and leading discussion groups and decision making.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): LEAD 180CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning

MKTG 170

Introduction to Marketing

You will focus on the role, concepts and principles of marketing in a competitive environment. You will learn the importance of developing a marketing plan that includes a satisfactory marketing mix (product, price, place and promotion). You will understand the role of a marketer with respect to assessing customer needs.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): MKTG 120
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

PE 181

Personal Health and Wellness in Communities

You will be provided with information on fitness/wellness as a lifestyle within the recreation field. Your studies will focus on the dynamics of fitness/wellness and its relationship to different target groups. You will also develop an overall understanding of how a fitness program is designed.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

PSYC 184

Introductory Psychology

You will be provided with an introduction to the field of psychology. The course is structured to provide you with an increased awareness of human behavior. Included in the course is a general introduction to psychology including theories of learning, cognition, and motivation.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): PSYC 184CE, PSYC 188
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

RSCH 200

Research Literacy

You will be introduced to basic research and its relationship to operational decision making. You will review data collection, types of research, pose simple research questions and design surveys.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 35.0
Equivalent Course(s): THRC 188
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

RT 170

Introduction to Recreation and Community Development

You will examine various fields of recreation and review significant organizations to help you understand the diversity of employment opportunities that exist in industry. You will focus on understanding philosophies and benefits associated with recreation. You will study an overview of knowledge, skills and abilities that the recreation and community development based industries require.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 35.0
Equivalent Course(s): REC 286
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

RT 185

Program Planning 1

You will focus on strategies used to plan and deliver leisure services in communities. You will receive a comprehensive overview of community planning and strategic development.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

Year 1 - Semester 2

Code

Name/Description

Credits

ACCT 200

Managerial Accounting

You will focus on the accounting cycle for municipal organizations and/or a not-for-profit. This includes some financial analysis, budgeting for operating revenues and expenses. Reading income statements and analyzing balance sheets will be emphasized.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): ACCT 170
Equivalent Course(s): BKPG 181
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

COM 113

Interpersonal Communications

You will acquire knowledge and practice in interpersonal communications, focusing on effective verbal and non-verbal communication, listening and responding skills, giving and receiving constructive feedback and problem solving. You will apply these techniques to the delivery of effective oral presentations. You will examine the demonstration of a professional image through your interpersonal, presentation and social media communications.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

ENVR 151

Environmental Sustainability

You will study ways to link ecological concerns to individual and community decision making. A key focus will be to work in a small group on issues related to sustainability. Options that recreation and community organizations could use to reduce environmental impact will be explored and strategies will be developed.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): ENVR 145
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

MGMT 203

Committees, Boards and Volunteer Management

You will explore issues and challenges related to working with boards and committees. You will prepare yourself to implement effective strategies to manage volunteers.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

RT 186

Inclusive Leisure

You will focus on defining the concept of inclusive leisure as the norm for the delivery of leisure services embracing the diversity of all people, including persons with physical, cognitive and sensory limitations or disabilities. The exploration of attitudes, benefits, barriers and adaptations will emphasize the importance of inclusive leisure services to societal wellness.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): THRC 182
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

RT 187

Program Planning 2

Building on the theory studied in Program Planning 1, you will be given the opportunity to apply a social planning model in an actual situation. You will take the Saskatchewan Tourism Education Council (STEC) Service Best program as a means of the skill development in effective customer relations.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 50.0
Prerequisites(s): RT 185
Equivalent Course(s): TOUR 140
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

RT 191

Introduction to Microeconomics

You will become familiar with how consumption and production decisions are made in a market economy. You will study the applications of supply and demand analysis, the theory of consumer behaviour and the impact of government regulations and intervention on market performance. You will study the basic theory of the firm under perfect competition, monopoly and monopolistic competition and the principles of oligopoly.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): ECON 120
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

RT 202

Diversity and Cultural Foundations

You will receive an introduction to the impact of cultural diversity in Saskatchewan and Canada. You will review the immigration process and the implications for recreation and community development. You will explore cultural values and the importance of understanding various cultures while working in recreation and leadership fields. Understanding Saskatchewan’s First Nations and Metis history and culture will be emphasized.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

SOCI 170

Sociology

You will be introduced to the field of sociology. The focus will be on patterns of social behavior and the relation of the individual to society. The social forces influencing behavior will also be examined. Topics include socialization, culture, family, deviance, economics, social change, population, and sociological perspectives.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): SOCI 282
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

Year 2 - Semester 3

Code

Name/Description

Credits

ADMN 182

Introduction to Management

You will receive an introduction to management concepts, processes and techniques. You will focus on the components of management including planning, organizing, leading and controlling.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): ADMN 120, ADMN 126
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

ADMN 201

Fund Development and Partnerships

You will study grant development and the importance of developing an effective proposal. You will examine fundraising from non-profit, and private sector perspectives. You will learn the importance of partnership between organizations.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

CAMP 280

Programming Lab

This course provides an introduction to the skills needed to plan and lead outdoor education/recreational activities. Planning outdoor programs with minimal environmental impact is emphasized through sustainability activities.
Credit Units: 6
Course Hours: 95.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical, Prior Learning

LEAD 200

Applied Leadership

Your studies will further develop your group processing skills and will provide you with the opportunity to discuss the importance of having a working leadership philosophy. You will focus on the problem solving process, controversy and conflict and managing change.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

MGMT 204

Introduction to Recreation Facilities

You will examine facility policies and procedures, maintenance practices, daily operations and facility design. You will study the operation and management of facilities.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

PR 281

Community Public Relations

You will receive instruction in basic public relations theory and practice including public relations writing and media relations. You will learn about the nature of publicity and use basic public relations tools such as news releases, interviews, press conferences, e-newsletters and social media.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

RT 289

Community Development

You will be introduced to the concept and models of community development. You will discuss the concept of social capital and explore asset mapping to help mobilize individuals and organizations to make connections and build capacity.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

RT 292

Outdoor Programming

You will examine the philosophy, development and management of outdoor programs in relation to various ages, cultures and environments. Your studies will focus on planning, developing, delivering and evaluating outdoor programs, the environmental impact the programs cause and methods that can be used to minimize recreation user impact and risk.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

Year 2 - Semester 4

Code

Name/Description

Credits

BLAW 282

Law and Risk Management for Managers

You will be introduced to the Canadian legal system. You will discuss the legal framework for recreation and will review negligence, liability, contract law, and risk management. Case studies are used to help the student understand how to avoid negligence and liability and provide safe environments.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 35.0
Equivalent Course(s): LAW 220
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

CAMP 281

Outdoor Programming Lab

The course provides an opportunity for you to develop your leadership and group management skills as you apply the program planning and community development process in a winter environment. You will work within an organizational structure that will ensure camp standards are established and maintained. You implement a process to ensure a fair and equitable allocation of resources.
Credit Units: 7
Course Hours: 110.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical, Online, Prior Learning

PE 282

Sports Management

Your studies will focus on the sport delivery system. You will discuss the impact and benefits of sport; and address topical issues of moral reasoning, ethics, racism, abuse, equity, screening, and others in sport.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 40.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

PRAC 293

Practicum

You will have the opportunity to apply the theory taught in the program. You will develop the skills needed to work as a front-line employee in the professions of recreation and community leadership.
Credit Units: 8
Course Hours: 120.0
Equivalent Course(s): WORK 145
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum-Individual, Prior Learning

RT 171

Economic Development

You will study the concepts economic development as it applies to community growth. You will discuss how communities work with government, and private sectors to build strong communities, industries, and markets.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

RT 200

Event Management

You will become familiar with the process involved in planning and managing festivals and special events. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of establishing and maintaining contracts.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

RT 201

Feasibility Studies

You will be introduced to the feasibility stage of planning for the development of community facilities. The course content includes defining feasibility studies, the rationale for feasibility studies, the sequence of steps that a study follows, and how terms of reference for contracts are established. You will study how to analyze information and develop recommendations.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Equivalent Course(s):
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

TOUR 287

Community Tourism Management

This course will introduce you to the Community Tourism Planning model and the needs of the community.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

PLAR & Transfer Credit

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

Saskatchewan Polytechnic recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training. A detailed Candidate Guide, which includes a self-audit for all PLAR-ready courses, has been developed for this program. This information guides a candidate through all steps in the PLAR process.

Transfer Credit

Many Sask Polytech students benefit from transferring course credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit from or to another college or university. Learn more about Transfer Credit.