Business & Management Programs

Recreation and Sport Management

• 2-Year Diploma Program – 6 semesters

• Program Fees: Domestic Students, International Students

• Apply for Admission: Forms and Information

Note: VIU also offers a Tourism Studies diploma and a Bachelor of Tourism Management degree.

This program is offered as a mandatory Co-operative Education format with four academic semesters and two paid Co-op placements.

The Program

The focus of this diploma program is on the provision of recreation and sport services and products in public, private, and not-for-profit sectors within communities. The program assesses the impact of recreation and sport and the environment in order to plan and develop healthy communities. Features of the program include the provision of applied skills and knowledge, direct leadership experience, a co-operative education model (paid employment), and small class sizes.

The program prepares students for career entry; however, students interested in further studies can apply to the third year of VIU’s Bachelor of Tourism Management, Major in Recreation.

A free information session for prospective students is usually held in the early spring. Check with the Advising Centre for more details, 250-740-6410, or visit viu.ca/infosessions.

Career Opportunities

The administration of recreation and sport services is a challenging career in this increasingly leisure-oriented society. Dynamic and innovative people are needed to plan, organize, and supervise recreation experiences in a variety of settings. Graduates have found employment in the following areas:

• Agencies, such as the Boys’ and Girls’ Club and the YM/YWCA, Sport B.C.
• Public Recreation and Sport Management, including parks and recreation departments in municipalities and regional districts, community schools, recreation associations, and public recreation and sport facilities.
• Outdoor Recreation, providing camping, wilderness experiences, risk recreation and sport, and environmental education. Parks involvement is also possible.
• Commercial Enterprises, such as fitness centres, racquetball complexes, and retail outlets.
• Inclusive Leisure, involving the provision of recreation to those with special needs, such as individuals who are disabled and disadvantaged in institutions or in the community.
• Tourism, including destination resorts, theme parks, tourist bureaus, and special events and festivals.

Admission Requirements

• General admission requirements apply.
• English 12 with minimum “C+” grade, or equivalent.
• Principles of Math 11 or Applications of Math 11 with a minimum “C” grade, or equivalent.
• Official transcript of grades from high school (and post-secondary institutions where applicable).
• Submit a 100-300 word Letter of Intent outlining your career goals, leadership activities, Recreation and Sport involvement, and experience working with people of varying ages and interests.

Recommendation for Admission

• History of leadership, active involvement in recreation and sport pursuits, and experience working with people of varying ages and interests.

Notes on Admission

• An interview may be required.
• An assessment test of writing skills may be required.
• Fieldwork may require a criminal record check prior to placement.
• Enrolment in this program is limited. Students who meet or exceed the minimum admission requirements may not necessarily be admitted to the program.
• All new students must participate in a compulsory orientation held early in the Fall semester.

Start Date and Application Deadline

The program starts in September and applications are accepted between November 15 and March 31. For further information regarding late applications, program contacts, and scheduled information sessions check the Program Availability List.

Co-operative Education

Under the Co-operative Education format, formal supervised work terms are integrated into the total curriculum on a paid basis. Students will benefit from the experience by:

• relating academic study more effectively to the field of practice;
• developing a clearer career focus;
• gaining valuable practical experience;
• being able to finance a larger portion of their education.

Access to Co-operative Education placements is based on students’ GPA (minimum of 2.33 (“C+”) is required) and their willingness to work as a team member with faculty and Co-operative Education staff to find appropriate placements.

Students in Co-operative Education work terms pay a fee, which is due during the second month of each work term.

Special Expenses

Co-op fees are due during the second month of each work term.

All fees and costs are subject to change without prior notice.

Exit Requirement

Beyond satisfying the academic requirements necessary for graduation, all students must obtain four exit requirements from the categories of leadership, technical training, or professional development. These may be obtained by completing certifications, or attending workshops and conferences from an approved list of options.

Further Studies

Students may continue their education by applying to the third year of VIU’s Bachelor of Tourism Management, Major in Recreation program.

Program Outline

* General electives must be from outside the Department of Recreation and Tourism Management.

** Some courses are offered on a rotational basis and may not be offered every academic year. For current offerings, please check the Student Handbook for the Recreation and Tourism Management Department at web.viu.ca/rectour.

Updated July 23, 2010