Additional Information
Educational requirements vary greatly, depending on the type of work. Some
seasonal jobs require only a high school diploma. However, full-time program
directors and supervisors need postgraduate studies.
The minimum educational requirement for a full-time position is a two-year
diploma from a community college in recreation leadership, leisure studies,
outdoor recreation management or a related field.
Given the competition, a four-year college degree in physical education,
human performance or kinesiology may provide an edge. Some programmers even
have graduate degrees in recreation or physical education.
Some jobs may also require the programmer to have experience in a specific
recreation or sports program.
Certificates in various recreational pursuits, such as a swimming instructor's
certificate, are also assets.
Employers agree that volunteer experience is very high on the list of prerequisites.
They recommend involvement with children's programs, community events and
sports organizations.
Once you're working in the field, you may choose to get certification from
professional associations. For example, the National Recreation and Parks
Association (NRPA) and the American Camping Association offer programs for
this purpose.
The NRPA, along with its state chapters, offers the certified leisure professional
program for those with a college degree in recreation, and an associate program
for those with less than four years of college.
Degrees in physical education are offered at most colleges and universities
in the United States. Some offer programs that cater more closely to a career
in recreation.