Long Island Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies

Long Island Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies

Get ready to become part of one of the fastest growing fields in the nation, at one of only two colleges in the tri-state area to offer this degree.

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Help others learn to nurture their emotional, physical and cognitive health — while having a little fun — with a recreation and leisure studies degree from St. Joseph's University. 

Our innovative programming teaches students the best ways to improve upon leisure-related behaviors and to incorporate recreational activities that promote a high quality of life for individuals and communities. By graduation, our dedicated faculty will have prepared you to enter a growing field — the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the number of jobs for recreational therapists will grow by at least 8 percent from 2019 to 2029. 

Learn to engage and motivate others. Be a wellness expert. Make a positive impact on society with a St. Joseph's University degree in recreation and leisure studies. 

Amanda GoldsteinAmanda Goldstein ’21
Therapeutic recreation major, psychology minor 

"I wouldn’t trade my experience at St. Joseph's University for the world. At St. Joseph's University, I received so many amazing networking opportunities, allowing me to advocate for my field, and work in a wide variety of settings with different populations. Thanks to the amazing staff and professors in this department, I feel ready for my future and proud of what I have accomplished at St. Joseph's University."

The Long Island Recreation and Leisure Studies Experience

Minors that Matter: Consider minoring in therapeutic recreation. The minor pairs well with many of our majors, including biology, psychology, criminal justice and speech therapy.

 

Hands-on Experience: All recreation and leisure studies students complete a rigorous internship, which enables them to apply knowledge gained in class to real-world experiences.

 

Make Your Mark: A therapeutic recreation degree prepares each student for a career as a recreational therapist in a clinical setting, in resort tourism, sports centers and more.

Recreation and Leisure Studies Programs

Recreation, Sports and Park Administration Major
Develop expertise in your field. 

Graduates of our recreation, sports and park administration program have the tools to confidently organize and implement a wide-range of programs and services in community-based settings. Get ready to take the skills gained in your classes and apply them directly to the field. 

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Therapeutic Recreation Major
Pave the way to a fulfilling career path.

Gain a profound understanding of the ways activities can improve a person’s mental, physical, emotional health and overall wellbeing.

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Sports Management Minor
Prepare for a career in sports.

With three areas of specialization to choose from – sports management and athletic coaching, sports management business administration and sports management marketing – students learn to assess, plan, implement and evaluate programs and events, and acquire an in-depth understanding of administrative principles specific to the sports management industry.

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Therapeutic Recreation Minor
Take your career further.

A therapeutic recreation minor teaches students the best tips and tricks to improve someone’s overall wellbeing, using recreational activities. Check out our diverse list of electives and take courses that enhance the curriculum in your major. 

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Recreation and Leisure Studies is a Growing Opportunity

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of recreational therapists to grow 7% from 2018 to 2028 — faster than average — while should be recreation, sports and park administration positions are expected to grown by 8%.

Professionals with a degree in recreation and leisure studies work in a variety of settings, such as community agencies; federal, state and local government agencies; private commercial enterprises; sports and youth development organizations; not-for-profit organizations; hospitals and rehabilitation settings, as well as travel, hospitality and entertainment venues.

Professionals work with children, adults, families and communities to ensure that the lives of people are enhanced and that the benefits of recreation are realized and available to persons with and without disabilities.