Recreation Specialist Certificate of Achievement

The Recreation Specialist Certificate of Achievement program prepares students with essential knowledge and practical skills to embark on entry-level careers in the dynamic recreation industry. This program delivers a well-rounded education in core areas such as recreation management, inclusive leisure programming, and community wellness. Through hands-on experience and exposure to industry best practices, students will learn to design and implement engaging recreational activities tailored to diverse community needs. Graduates will be equipped to make meaningful contributions in roles across parks, community centers, recreational facilities, and other leisure services, fostering wellness and enriching community life.

We anticipate the following number of students to earn the Recreation Specialist Certificate of Achievement annually:

• Year 1: 10-15 students
• Year 2: 15-20 students
• Year 3: 20-25 students

These projections are based on current enrollment trends, interest in recreation and leisure studies, and the expected demand for entry-level professionals in the recreation field. With active recruitment efforts, partnerships with local organizations, and marketing of the certificate program, we anticipate steady growth in completions over the next three years.

The Recreation Specialist Certificate of Achievement program is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the recreation and leisure field, equipping them with the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to work in recreational facilities, community centers, parks, and other leisure services settings. The program provides a pathway for students interested in furthering their education in recreation, leisure studies, or related fields at a four-year institution. It emphasizes the importance of civic education by fostering an understanding of the role of recreation in promoting community health, inclusivity, and engagement through culturally competent and equitable programming. Additionally, the program encourages lifelong learning by inspiring students to develop an appreciation for recreation and its impact on physical and mental well-being, enabling them to promote these values in both professional and personal contexts. With a focus on addressing labor market demands, the program aligns with regional occupational goals, preparing graduates for high-demand roles in the growing recreation industry.

The Recreation Specialist Certificate of Achievement program requires students to complete a total of 18 units, including core courses that provide foundational knowledge and practical skills essential for success in the recreation and leisure field. These courses emphasize program planning, leadership development, and community engagement, preparing students for entry-level roles in recreational facilities, community centers, parks, and other leisure service settings. In addition to the core courses, students must complete one elective course. Elective options include classes that cover topics such as health equity, principles of healthful living, safety and first aid, drug education, sports ethics, equity and diversity in sports, and the portrayal of sports in cinema. This blend of core and elective courses ensures students gain both foundational and specialized knowledge, equipping them with the skills and competencies needed to excel in this dynamic and growing industry.

This certificate is designed as a foundational program that directly leads to the Recreation and Leisure Studies AA degree. It serves as an entry point for students interested in pursuing careers in the recreation and leisure field, providing essential knowledge and skills while also aligning with the curriculum and learning objectives of the associate degree program. This seamless pathway ensures that students can progress from the certificate to the AA degree with a clear and cohesive academic plan.

There are currently no similar programs in the Los Angeles region that specifically focus on preparing students for careers in recreation and leisure services through a certificate program. The Recreation Specialist Certificate of Achievement is unique in its emphasis on equipping students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed in this growing field, while also providing a clear pathway to the Recreation and Leisure Studies AA degree.

Since the program is new, we anticipate a modest start with an estimated 15-20 unique students enrolling in the first year. Over time, as awareness of the program grows and demand increases, we expect enrollment to gradually rise to 20-25 students in the second year and 25-30 students in the third year. These projections reflect our expectations for growth as the program becomes more established and recognized within the college and community.

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