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Recreation and Tourism Management


Location(s):  Saskatoon   

Recreation and Tourism Management is a diploma program. The 2003 Saskatchewan Employment Demand Forecast Report indicates 64% of all job opportunities will require management skills. In addition, the Information, Culture and Recreation industry will enjoy an annual growth of 4.5%. If you want a career in one of the fastest growing industries in Saskatchewan and around the world, then join us in our newly redeveloped program where graduates will find careers across the array of opportunities in the culture, sport, recreation and tourism sectors.

Our comprehensive curriculum and highly trained instructors will help you discover the art and passion of recreation and tourism management for today's more active society.
Your studies will focus on a core of recreation and tourism management skills that provide the expertise and knowledge development you'll need to succeed in the industry.

You will develop many essential skills and gain hands-on training and experience in:

  • the principles of business management (as they relate to the recreation and tourism sectors)

  • leadership skills

  • program planning

  • inclusive leisure

  • community and economic development

  • cultural foundations


You will also develop communication, business and computer skills. The program includes a fall and winter camp where you apply theory in practical situations. Your real life experiences will develop your cultural, environmental and outdoor skills. The program's pragmatic business approach and innovative teaching methods promise you a rewarding educational experience and career.

The final semester provides you with the opportunity to choose a specialty of interest in recreation or tourism.

Membership in several recreation and tourism associations is available to you. These include:

  • Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association (SPRA)

  • Canadian Parks and Recreation Association

  • Saskatchewan Association of Recreation Practitioners (SARP)

  • Tourism Saskatchewan


Recognition of our curriculum by the Association of Tourism Professionals provides access to industry certification.

Length: 67 weeks

Year 1 - 33 weeks; Year 2 - 34 weeks


Career Opportunities

Graduates are prepared for management and administrative positions in areas such as:

  • guiding and interpretive services

  • tour companies

  • government agencies

  • lodges and outfitters

  • municipal and regional tourism agencies

  • economic development agencies


Graduates also have the knowledge and skills needed to become small business entrepreneurs.

For more information about career opportunities related to this program, contact Student Employment Services at the campus nearest you.

  • facility managers
  • interpreters
  • parks and recreation coordinators and directors
  • private sector managers
  • program planners
  • recreation managers
  • school-community coordinators
  • small business managers
  • special event planners
  • tour guides

Program Details

Start Date(s): September every second year

  • This program has one intake every second year beginning in 2011 (odd numbered years only)

Apply Now

Admission Requirements


  • Grade 12 with a minimum of 60% in each of the following subjects: English Language Arts A30, English Language Arts B30 and a 30 level mathematics*

  • English Language Requirement


*Revised Mathematics Curriculum Requirement
(Effective July 1, 2013)


  • Minimum 60% in Workplace and Apprenticeship Math 30 or in Foundations of Math 30 or a passing grade in Pre-Calculus 30
    (replacing a 30 level mathematics above)

  • All other admission requirements remain unchanged



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. You must review the details and program specific documentation concerning Special Admission.


The majority of SIAST programs have established ACCUPLACER© cut scores and Post-Secondary Success Requirements. Depending on the program, additional specific admission requirements may still need to be met.


ACCUPLACER ©     

ACCUPLACER© Cut Scores
for this program

75Arithmetic
65Reading
65Sentence
4WritePlacer
Post-Secondary Success

Post-Secondary Success Requirements
for this program

One year post-secondary studies


Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of SIAST 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.

Tuition and Fees

  • For complete details on tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the SIAST campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.

Learning Method(s)

SIAST offers a variety of learning methods for course delivery. The following learning methods are available for some of the courses in this program.
      Classroom
    • Fall and Winter Camps
      Clinical/Practicum
      Home Study
      Online
      Work-based Training

Please refer to the course descriptions for course specific learning methods.


Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) Availability

SIAST 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.

Frequently asked questions regarding PLAR for this program are answered in the Fact Sheet. 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 and Future Study Options

SIAST may recognize formal learning from other educational institutions.



Year 1 - Semester 1
expand/contract all

  • 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.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

    Equivalent Course(s):   ACCT 191    BKPG 180   


  • COAP 171  Desktop Publishing
  • Your studies will introduce you to basic skills in the use of Desktop Publishing software for designing, editing and delivering different documents. You will learn the fundamentals of design for simple desktop publishing.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online/Blackboard


  • COMM 295  Communications
  • You will receive instruction and practice in written communication skills needed as a professional. You will review basic grammar and the mechanics of writing, study and practice research skills and technique, and produce examples of business and technical writing. The course emphasizes communicating a professional image.

    2.0 Credit Units
    35.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time

    Equivalent Course(s):   BCOM 120   


  • COMP 174  Introduction to Microsoft Excel 1
  • You will study the basic features of Excel. You will learn to format spreadsheet elements, create simple charts and use simple formulas and functions.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Correspondence, Online/Blackboard

    Course Attributes:

    Equivalent Course(s):   COAP 138    COAP 197    COAP 344    COMP 120   


  • COMP 179  Introduction to PowerPoint
  • You will receive instruction and practice in creating, modifying and delivering a presentation using Microsoft PowerPoint. You will enhance the presentation by adding charts, tables, visual elements, multimedia, transition effects and animations. You will study how to present, distribute and customize presentations.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   COAP 138    COMP 173   


  • LEAD 180  Leadership and Group Dynamics
  • Leadership and Group Dynamics is a foundation course. The course introduces you to the theory of leadership and focuses on group processes and the practical application of leadership techniques (including conducting meetings, doing presentations and leading discussions).

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Correspondence-Structured Time, Correspondence


  • MKTG 170  Marketing
  • Your studies 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.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning

    Equivalent Course(s):   MKTG 120   


  • PE__ 181  Wellness and Lifestyles
  • The course provides information on fitness/wellness as a lifestyle within the recreation and tourism 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.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • PSYC 184  Introductory Psychology
  • The course provides 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, learning, cognition personality, motivation and personality disorders.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

    Equivalent Course(s):   PSYC 188   


  • RSCH 200  Evaluating Research
  • You will be introduced to basic research and its relationship to operational decision making. You will learn the identification, selection and summary components of data processing, pose simple research questions and to design surveys.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory


  • RT__ 170  Introduction to Recreation and Tourism
  • You will examine the fields of recreation and tourism and the various career opportunities available. The course will include an overview of knowledge, skills and abilities that the recreation and tourism industry require as a minimum to be successful in the field.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

    Equivalent Course(s):   REC 286   


  • RT__ 185  Program Planning
  • Your studies will focus on understanding concepts, theories, philosophies and benefits associated with recreation and tourism services. You will review and discuss the strategies used to deliver tourism and leisure services in communities. You will receive a comprehensive overview of the steps for planning and strategic development.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Correspondence-Structured Time, Correspondence


    Year 1 - Semester 2

  • ACCT 200  Managerial Accounting
  • Your studies will focus on the accounting cycle for a merchandising firm. This includes some financial analysis, budgeting for operating revenues and expenses. You will be introduced to AccPac Simply Accounting software and work with the general ledger, accounts receivable and payables. Reading income statements and analyzing balance sheets will be emphasized.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Equivalent Course(s):   BKPG 181   

    Prerequisites:
    ACCT 170 Minimum Grade of 60


  • COMP 191  Web Content Management
  • Students will perform web site maintenance including planning, organizing and developing maintainable HTML documents using current techniques such as CSS, templates, and site management software.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Lecture/Lab, Online/Blackboard


  • COMP 194  Web 1
  • You will study technologies focusing on Web 1.0 development with multimedia. You will gain experience in how the software can be applied and used in the field.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning, Online/Blackboard


  • COMP 195  Web 2
  • You will study new and emerging technologies and examine how these technologies can change your work environment. You will gain experience in various technologies that are used via the Internet, including blogs, forums, wikis and podcasts to distribute information.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online/Blackboard


  • ENVR 151  Environmental Education
  • In this foundation course, you will be introduced to the underlying philosophy of environmental sustainability and how literacy through education can contribute to sustainability. The relationship to recreation and tourism and the use of environmental education within these settings will be emphasized.

    3.0 Credit Units
    50.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Correspondence-Structured Time, Correspondence

    Equivalent Course(s):   ENVR 145   


  • MGMT 203  Volunteer Management and Partnerships
  • You will explore the issues and challenges in developing partnerships and managing volunteers.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory


  • RT__ 186  Inclusive Leisure
  • The course focuses on defining the concept of inclusive leisure as the norm for the delivery of leisure services for all persons (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.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Correspondence

    Equivalent Course(s):   THRC 182   


  • RT__ 187  Applied Program Planning and Delivery
  • Building on the theory learned in RT 185 (Program Planning), you will be given the opportunity to apply the social planning model in an actual situation. You will also take the STEC Service Best program as part of the skill development in effective customer relations.

    4.0 Credit Units
    55.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Correspondence-Structured Time

    Equivalent Course(s):   TOUR 140   

    Prerequisites:
    RT 185 Minimum Grade of 60


  • 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. The course content includes the basic theory of the firm under perfect competition, monopoly and monopolistic competition, and the principles of oligopoly.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning

    Equivalent Course(s):   ECON 120   


  • SOCI 170  Sociology
  • You will be introduced to the field of sociology. The focus will be on patterns of social behaviour and the relation of the individual to society. The social forces influencing behaviour will also be examined. Topics include socialization, culture, family, deviance, economics, social change, population, and the sociological perspectives.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

    Equivalent Course(s):   SOCI 282   


  • TOUR 287  Community Tourism Management
  • You will receive the information required to function effectively in a regional tourism setting. You will learn about tourism regions and how to promote tourism development.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Correspondence-Structured Time


    Year 2 - Semester 1

  • ADMN 182  Introduction to Management
  • You will receive an introduction to management concepts, processes and techniques. You will focus on the components of management (planning, organizing, leading and controlling). You will have the opportunity to apply theory in a practical simulation.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Correspondence-Structured Time, Correspondence

    Equivalent Course(s):   ADMN 120    ADMN 126   


  • ADMN 201  Proposal Writing
  • In the course you will study grantsmanship and corporate sponsorships. You will learn to write and present proposals.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • CAMP 280  Fall Camp
  • You will have the opportunity to experience the outdoors in a semi-wilderness setting. You will be introduced to the skills needed to plan and lead outdoor education/recreational activities. You will plan outdoor programs with an emphasis on minimal environmental impact.



    6.0 Credit Units
    95.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • LEAD 200  Applied Leadership
  • Your studies will further develop your group processing skill and will provide you with the opportunity to discuss the importance of having a working philosophy. You will focus on the problem solving process, controversy, conflict and managing change.



    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Correspondence-Structured Time

    Prerequisites:
    LEAD 180 Minimum Grade of 60


  • PR__ 281  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 getting favourable public attention and use basic public relations tools such as news releases, interviews, press conferences, e-newsletters and posters.


    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory


  • RT__ 201  Feasibility Studies
  • You will be introduced to the feasibility stage of planning for the development of recreation facilities. The course content includes what a feasibility study is, why a study is undertaken, the sequence of steps that a study follows, how the study should be presented both in written form and orally, and how terms of reference are set up. The course also provides guidance on how information is analyzed and on how recommendations are developed.

    2.0 Credit Units
    35.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Correspondence-Structured Time

    Prerequisites:
    ACCT 200 Minimum Grade of 60 and RT 191 Minimum Grade of 60


  • RT__ 202  Cultural Foundations
  • You will receive an introduction to the concept of multiculturalism in Saskatchewan and Canada. You will address the myths and laws of immigration and the implication they have for recreation and economics. You will explore selected cultural values and the importance of understanding various cultures while working in the recreation and tourism fields. Understanding Canada's First Nations people will be emphasized.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory


  • RT__ 289  Community and Economic Development
  • This course provides an introduction to the concept, history, importance, and models of community& economic development. You will explore the rationale for having community and economic development as a part of the process in the recreation and tourism profession. You will also examine the roles and responsibilities of staff working in a community and economic development capacity.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Correspondence-Structured Time


  • RT__ 292  Outdoor Programming
  • You will examine the philosophy, development and management of various 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.



    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory


    Year 2 - Semester 2

  • BLAW 282  Legal Aspects
  • You will be introduced to the Canadian legal system. You will develop a legal framework for the recreation and tourism industry and will review negligence, liability, contract law and risk management.



    2.0 Credit Units
    35.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

    Equivalent Course(s):   LAW 220   


  • BUS_ 200  Business Planning
  • You will be introduced to the components of a comprehensive and well-thought-out business plan. You will examine the components of a business plan, business legal structures, finance, costing and pricing.



    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time

    Equivalent Course(s):   ADMN 224   

    Prerequisites:
    RT 201 Minimum Grade of 60


  • CAMP 281  Winter Camp
  • The course provides an opportunity for you to focus on your leadership and group skills as you apply the program planning & community development process in a winter environment. You will work within an organizational structure that will help ensure camp standards are established and maintained. You will learn to implement a process to ensure a fair and equitable allocation of resources.

    7.0 Credit Units
    110.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

    Prerequisites:
    LEAD 200 Minimum Grade of 60 and RT 289 Minimum Grade of 60


  • MGMT 204  Facility and Park Management
  • You will be introduced to selected technical information that is required in the operation and maintenance of recreation facilities and intensive use park areas.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • 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. You will obtain competition (COMP) PART A in the National Coaches Certification Program.

    3.0 Credit Units
    40.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Correspondence-Structured Time


  • PRAC 293  Work-based Practicum and Internship
  • The course provides you with an opportunity to work in an organization (or agency) in the recreation, sport, tourism and community/economic field. Your placement will provide you with the opportunity to work on a real project in a controlled environment.

    8.0 Credit Units
    120.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum, Prior Learning

    Equivalent Course(s):   WORK 145   


  • RT__ 200  Event Planning
  • You will become familiar with the process involved in establishing festivals and special events. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of establishing and maintaining contracts.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

    Prerequisites:
    RT 185 Minimum Grade of 60


  • TOUR 284  Resort Management
  • You will learn the basic concepts related to managing and operating destination resort facilities and associated resource bases. You will focus on those resorts common to Saskatchewan's existing inventory, resources, geography and areas of potential growth.

    3.0 Credit Units
    40.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • TOUR 285  Group Tours and Guiding
  • The course provides an introduction to group tour operations. The course content includes tour product development and design, itinerary design, tour costing and quotations, promotion and environmental safety considerations for the customer and the supplier.

    4.0 Credit Units
    55.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Correspondence-Structured Time



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