Leisure Sciences — Specialization

The Leisure Sciences — Specialization program at Concordia University offers students a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the multifaceted field of leisure studies. This program is designed to equip students with a solid theoretical foundation and practical skills necessary to understand, manage, and promote leisure activities that enhance individual well-being and contribute to the development of healthy communities. Throughout the program, students delve into various disciplines such as psychology, sociology, management, and environmental studies, all integrated within the context of leisure and recreational pursuits. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, research methods, and innovative approaches to planning and implementing leisure programs in diverse settings, including urban, rural, and specialized environments. Students gain valuable insights into the social, cultural, economic, and health-related aspects of leisure, enabling them to address contemporary challenges and opportunities in the field. The specialization prepares graduates for careers in tourism, recreation management, community development, sports organizations, and other related sectors. Additionally, students have the opportunity to participate in internships, fieldwork, and collaborative projects, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. The program fosters a multidisciplinary perspective, encouraging students to consider the ecological and social impacts of leisure activities while promoting inclusivity and accessibility. With a focus on sustainable practices and innovative trends, graduates are well-positioned to become leaders who can influence policy, develop impactful programs, and contribute positively to society through leisure and recreational initiatives. The Leisure Sciences — Specialization program at Concordia University is ideal for individuals passionate about improving quality of life and committed to creating vibrant, active communities through the power of leisure.

The Leisure Sciences — Specialization program at Concordia University offers a comprehensive exploration of the various aspects of leisure, recreation, and wellness in contemporary society. This program is designed to prepare students for careers that promote healthy lifestyles, community engagement, and the development of recreational programs and services. Throughout the curriculum, students will examine the theoretical foundations of leisure studies as well as practical applications in diverse settings. The courses cover topics such as leisure behavior, event management, sport and recreation administration, leisure policy, and community development. Students are encouraged to critically analyze the social, cultural, and economic factors that influence leisure practices and policies. The program emphasizes experiential learning through internships and fieldwork, providing students with valuable hands-on experience in real-world settings. This allows students to apply their knowledge and develop practical skills in organizing events, managing recreational facilities, and designing inclusive leisure programs. Additionally, students will engage with issues related to sustainable leisure practices, social equity, and the promotion of health and wellness. The specialization prepares graduates for a wide range of career opportunities, including positions in municipal recreation departments, non-profit organizations, private leisure enterprises, and health promotion agencies. The program also supports further studies in related fields such as public health, recreation therapy, or community development. With a strong interdisciplinary approach and a focus on current trends and challenges in leisure sciences, this specialization aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and ethical frameworks necessary for making meaningful contributions to leisure and recreation sectors. Graduates will be well-positioned to influence policy, design innovative programs, and advocate for inclusive and sustainable leisure opportunities that enhance quality of life for diverse populations.

The Leisure Sciences — Specialization program at Concordia University is designed to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in the field of leisure, recreation, and community development. The program typically includes a combination of core courses, electives, and practical experience components that together aim to prepare students for diverse careers in leisure services, recreational planning, community programming, and related fields. Core courses may cover topics such as leisure theory, recreational leadership, program planning, leisure policy, and management strategies. Elective courses allow students to specialize further in areas such as outdoor recreation, sports management, cultural leisure, or health and wellness initiatives. The program emphasizes experiential learning, encouraging students to engage in internships, community projects, and fieldwork to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. Students also develop critical skills in communication, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving, which are essential for success in the leisure industry. The program duration is typically four years for a bachelor's degree or two years for a master's degree, depending on the level of study and prior academic credentials. Admission requirements generally include a high school diploma for undergraduate studies or an undergraduate degree for graduate studies, along with relevant transcripts and possibly letters of recommendation. Upon completion, graduates are equipped to work in various sectors, including municipal recreation departments, sports organizations, non-profit agencies, private leisure companies, and healthcare institutions promoting active lifestyles and community engagement. The program aims to foster a global perspective on leisure and recreation, encouraging students to develop innovative solutions that enhance quality of life and social inclusion. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to participate in research projects and conferences, stay updated on emerging trends, and contribute to the development of leisure services that meet the evolving needs of diverse populations. The program may also offer opportunities for international exchange or collaborative projects with community partners, enriching students’ academic and professional experiences.

The Financing studies for the Leisure Sciences — Specialization program at Concordia University are designed to provide students with comprehensive information on the various financial resources available to support their education. Students are encouraged to explore multiple funding options, including government financial aid programs, scholarships, bursaries, and student loans. Concordia University offers a range of merit-based scholarships, which are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, or particular talents demonstrated during the application process. Additionally, there are need-based bursaries that help students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds afford their studies.

The university's Financial Aid and Awards Office provides personalized guidance to assist students in applying for appropriate funding sources. Students are advised to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), where applicable, and to research specific scholarships provided by the university, the Quebec government, and external organizations. Work-study programs are also available, allowing students to gain practical experience while earning income to offset education costs.

Tuition fees for the Leisure Sciences — Specialization program vary depending on the program level and residency status. International students may have different fee structures compared to domestic students. Concordia University offers payment plans that enable students to spread out tuition payments over the semester, making financing more manageable. Moreover, students are encouraged to explore external funding options such as private scholarships and sponsorships from organizations related to leisure, sports, and recreation sectors.

Students should also consider the possibility of research assistantships and teaching assistantships, which may provide stipends or waivers in exchange for academic work. It is essential for prospective students to start planning their finances early, exploring their eligibility for various funding programs, and applying well in advance of enrollment deadlines. Overall, Concordia University strives to ensure that students have access to sufficient financial resources to complete their leisure sciences education successfully, supporting their academic and professional development in the field of leisure and recreation studies.

The Leisure Sciences — Specialization program at Concordia University offers students a comprehensive education in the field of leisure, recreation, and wellness. This program is designed to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to support various leisure activities and improve quality of life through effective management and understanding of leisure services. The curriculum covers a wide array of topics including the sociology of leisure, recreation management, community development, program planning, and policy analysis. Students are encouraged to explore the social, cultural, psychological, and economic aspects of leisure to better serve diverse populations and address contemporary issues related to health, well-being, and social inclusion.

Throughout the program, students have opportunities to engage in hands-on learning via internships, research projects, and community partnerships, which help bridge academic theories with real-world applications. The specialization emphasizes the importance of inclusive and sustainable practices in leisure programming, preparing graduates to work in various settings such as community centers, parks and recreation departments, sports organizations, tourism agencies, and health institutions. Faculty members bring diverse expertise, contributing to a dynamic learning environment that fosters critical thinking, leadership, and innovation.

Graduates of this specialization are well-positioned to pursue careers as recreation coordinators, leisure services managers, community development specialists, and wellness program directors. The program also provides a solid foundation for further studies in related fields like public health, social work, or doctoral research. Concordia University’s integrated approach ensures that students develop competencies in communication, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving, which are essential in the evolving leisure industry. Overall, this program aims to prepare graduates not only to enter the workforce but also to contribute positively to societal well-being through the promotion of active, healthy lifestyles and community engagement.