Recreation & Leisure Services (RCLS)
RCLS 125. RECREATION AND LEISURE SERVICES ACTIVITIES. 1 Credit.
Notes: co-educational.
Backpacking, basic rock climbing, scuba diving, skiing (cross country), canoeing, and rafting.
RCLS 196. EXPERIMENTAL COURSE. 1-5 Credits.
RCLS 197. WORKSHOP, SHORT COURSE, CONFERENCE, SEMINAR. 1-5 Credits.
RCLS 201. FOUNDATIONS OF THE RECREATION EXPERIENCE INDUSTRY. 4 Credits.
This course explores the intricacies the recreation and experience industry plays in society and in an individual's life. The conceptual foundations and the significant functions of play, recreation, and leisure, along with the history and theory are discussed. Personal needs, habits, and life goals are explored in relationship to quality of life along with future trends influencing society and the environment.
RCLS 206. OUTDOOR LIVING SKILLS. 4 Credits.
Notes: a 4-day backpacking trip is required to complete this course.
This course teaches the fundamental outdoor living skills needed to be proficient in wilderness backpacking and a variety of wilderness-based activities. Students will learn the knowledge and skills of wilderness backpacking, backcountry cooking, navigation, wilderness leadership, trip planning, risk management, and environmental ethics. These skills are consistent with core competencies outlined by the Wilderness Education Association. Students will earn a Leave No Trace Trainer Certification.
RCLS 220. LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT IN RECREATION EXPERIENCE MANAGEMENT. 3 Credits.
Emphasis on the elements of leadership in the recreation setting and ideas on how to lead programs so they fit participant needs are addressed. Fieldwork is part of the course requirements.
RCLS 230. WHITEWATER KAYAKING. 2 Credits.
This course is designed to instruct paddlers in whitewater kayaking techniques. The course will emphasize the essential skills needed for paddling moderately difficult rivers. The basic kayaking skills that are taught in the course include: paddle strokes, boat control, and basic whitewater safety information.
RCLS 240. INTRODUCTION TO THERAPEUTIC RECREATION. 4 Credits.
This course provides an in-depth overview to the field of therapeutic recreation. The course covers the historical, conceptual, and philosophical foundations of the profession. Topics include service-delivery models, professional ethics, standards of practice, credentialing, practice settings, populations served, and relationships with other allied health care providers. Students participate in a 12-hour field experience and interact with professionals in the field during the course.
RCLS 250. CAMP ADMINISTRATION AND LEADERSHIP. 3 Credits.
This course covers the philosophy, objectives, planning and operation of camps. It also provides an overview of counselors' responsibilities, programming, marketing, health and safety, as well as individual and group guidance techniques and trends.
RCLS 260. ARTS IN RECREATION. 3 Credits.
This course presents several media of art, i.e. mask making, clay, paper art, music and physical movement, and delves into the historical and cultural interpretations of each medium. Hands on application and practice with the medium follows, accompanied by teaching guidelines and discussion of adaptations for various populations.
RCLS 270. DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION IN THE WORKPLACE. 2 Credits.
This course is designed to enhance understanding of the recreation and experience industry in a diverse society. Students examine factors that influence the industry, explore how the industry mirrors broader cultural values, and learn ways to use recreation and experience to expand their own cultural understandings. In addition, students learn to think critically, recognize and respect different perspectives, and appreciate the cultural and contextual nature of their choices and actions.
RCLS 290. WILDERNESS AND REMOTE FIRST AID. 3 Credits.
The purpose of this class is to provide individuals a foundation of first aid principles and skills to be able to respond to emergencies and give care in areas that do not have immediate emergency medical services (EMS) response.
RCLS 296. EXPERIMENTAL COURSE. 1-5 Credits.
RCLS 297. WORKSHOP, SHORT COURSE, CONFERENCE, SEMINAR. 1-5 Credits.
RCLS 300. PUBLICITY AND PROMOTION IN RECREATION. 4 Credits.
Provides skills, techniques and ideas for designing visual aids, working with the media and developing a five-step promotion package for recreation and leisure service agencies.
RCLS 301. OVERVIEW OF THE CRAFT BEER INDUSTRY. 2 Credits.
Pre-requisites: minimum 18 years of age or older, ENGL 101 or equivalent.
This course explores the development of craft beer through historical origin and styles, ingredients and processes, science and technology, tradition and culture, and their influence on the current craft beer industry. The course exposes students to the local Spokane craft beer industry to gain an understanding of craft breweries, tap houses, malt houses, restaurants and pubs, as well as beer distribution, production, retail, tourism, supply chains, and media.
RCLS 305. WINTER CAMPING AND TRAVEL. 4 Credits.
Pre-requisites: RCLS 206 or permission of the instructor.
Introduction to winter camping and modes of oversnow travel such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Emphasizes skill development in winter camping techniques, natural shelter construction, and equipment familiarization, supported through field experience.
RCLS 306. ESSENTIALS OF SNOW-BASED TRAVEL. 2 Credits.
Pre-requisites: English proficiency.
This course provides a foundation of the essential knowledge and skills to travel in snow-based backcountry terrain. Students learn about managing the risks of a snow-based environment through a focus on avalanche education. Students learn about a variety of equipment and techniques that can be used to travel within this type of environment (skis, snowshoes, crampons). The course also provides an introduction to mountaineering equipment and techniques.
RCLS 307. MOUNTAINEERING. 3 Credits.
Pre-requisites: RCLS 305 or permission of the instructor.
Designed to provide a comprehensive program of basic mountaineering. Intensive consideration given to snow and glacier travel as well as other skills necessary for safe alpine mountaineering. Includes two weekend field trips.
RCLS 313. PUBLIC LANDS AND OUTDOOR RECREATION. 4 Credits.
Pre-requisites: RCLS 201.
This course is designed to provide an overview of wildland recreation management history, principles, practices and contemporary issues. An additional emphasis of the course is to expose students to the seven principles that guide the mission of the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics.
RCLS 315. WILDERNESS SURVIVAL. 3 Credits.
This course focuses on essential skills needed to survive in the wild in an unexpected emergency with minimal equipment. Skills such as fire craft, shelter building, improvising essential gear, use of a signal mirror for rescue, etc. are discussed.
RCLS 325. OUTDOOR ADVENTURE PROGRAMMING. 3 Credits.
A survey of outdoor adventure education programs. Includes historical development and future trends as well as methods of intiating outdoor adventure education within a curriculum or program.
RCLS 330. INTERMEDIATE WHITEWATER KAYAKING. 2 Credits.
Notes: Further instruction and development is advised upon the completion of this course. The ACA recommends completing an advanced whitewater kayaking class as the next step in the student progression. See the instructors of this class or go to www.ACA.org for more information.
Pre-requisites: permission of instructor.
The course is best suited for paddlers who have continued to develop their kayaking skills and acquire experience in the whitewater environment, including the ability to reliably roll a capsized boat in Class II whitewater. The intermediate kayaking skills and information taught in this course emphasize developing good judgment and decision-making skills; group management; developing an ethic of environmental stewardship; intermediate paddling techniques and mechanics; the presentation of on-water scenarios to assess risk, evaluate rapid features, and develop strategies; and the principles of safety and rescue for individuals and groups.
RCLS 333. FACILITATION AND GROUP DYNAMICS IN RECREATION MANAGEMENT. 4 Credits.
Notes: fieldwork is part of the course requirements.
Pre-requisites: English proficiency, or permission of the instructor.
This course teaches leadership and facilitation skills for group problem-solving initiatives and teambuilding activities. This course covers topics vital to the framework for developing group facilitation programs and personal development sessions. Topics include a selection of appropriate activities to meet the needs of a specific group, understanding group dynamics, group goal setting and assessment, sequencing, framing, debriefing techniques, and leadership considerations.
RCLS 335. PRACTITIONER TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT IN RECREATION EXPERIENCE MANAGEMENT. 4 Credits.
Pre-requisites: English proficiency, or permission of the instructor.
This course teaches proper technical and facilitation training practices including hands-on experiences for spotted activities, low, and high challenge course elements. Emphasis is on developing the skills required to become a thinking practitioner including operations management, ethical practices, technical and facilitation competencies. This course provides opportunity for certification as a Challenge Course Practitioner Level I.
RCLS 337. CRAFT BEER EVALUATION AND SERVICE. 2 Credits.
Notes: students will test to obtain their Mandatory Alcohol Servers Training (MAST) permit.
Pre-requisites: 21 years of age, ENGL 101 or equivalent.
The art of understanding craft beer is complex but a valuable skill for any professional. Craft beer comes in many different styles that has been influenced by a variety countries and brewing techniques. The craft beer appreciation and service course focuses on learning the essentials of craft beer, including: beer history, styles, origin, qualitative and quantitative characteristics of beer, ingredients, the brewing process, beer service, glassware, beer flavor and evaluation.
RCLS 340. AQUATIC FACILITIES MANAGEMENT. 3 Credits.
Emphasis on pool, beach, and lake properties concerning operation, administration, maintenance, supervision, trends, water chemistry, health and safety, public relations and other aquatic topics.
RCLS 345. THERAPEUTIC RECREATION FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES. 4 Credits.
Pre-requisites: permission of the instructor.
This course introduces delivery of recreational therapy services for persons with illnesses, disabilities, and those who are disadvantaged. Content includes symptomology, etiology, prognosis, and remediation using therapeutic intervention, concentrating on recreational therapy diagnostic protocols and diagnostic language used in healthcare that fosters interprofessional collaboration such as the application and use of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health.
RCLS 349. YOUTH SPORTS MANAGEMENT. 2 Credits.
This course is designed to introduce students to the primary responsibilities of a programmer or administrator in the youth sports management setting. Topics include managing risk, finances, leagues and tournaments, parents, coaches, and referees.
RCLS 350. RECREATION PRACTICUM. 5 Credits.
Pre-requisites: RCLS 201.
Direct observation and on-the-job participation in the programming and operation of recreation programs within the local recreational community to enhance your programming, scheduling, and leadership techniques under a supervised situation.
RCLS 351. FIELD PRACTICUM. 1-15 Credits.
Involves the practical application of theoretical concepts and recreation-related skills in a recreation and leisure services organization. Requires three (3) hours of work, per week, for every credit assigned, i.e.; one credit equals thirty hours of work over a ten-week period. Students must document their work in accordance with WAMS department policies.
RCLS 355. LEAVE NO TRACE TRAINER. 2 Credits.
Notes: upon successful completion of the Trainer Course participants will receive a Leave No Trace Trainer Certificate.
This course is designed for individuals who are interested in teaching Leave No Trace Awareness Workshops or expanding their knowledge of Leave No Trace principles. Through classroom discussions, lectures and hands-on field experience, this course will cover the seven Leave No Trace principles and discuss outdoor ethics, and give participants the tools and techniques for disseminating low-impact skills to recreationists.
RCLS 360. FACILITY PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN. 4 Credits.
Notes: field work is part of the requirement.
Pre-requisites: RCLS 201 and junior standing or permission of the instructor.
Design and trends in recreation facilities, as well as knowing environmental design techniques, environmental impact statements, and inter-agency cooperation.
RCLS 370. OUTDOOR RECREATION AQUATIC PROGRAMS. 3 Credits.
Pre-requisites: RCLS 125 Rafting.
An overview of major outdoor aquatic adventures such as river rafting and kayaking. Emphasis placed on developing a fundamental awareness of skills necessary in each activity in addition to logistical and business aspects of conducting excursions.
RCLS 373. CRAFT BEER EVALUATION AND SERVICE. 3 Credits.
Notes: students will test to obtain their Mandatory Alcohol Servers Training (MAST) permit. The alcohol served to any person in the program is tasted, but not consumed, for the purposes of educational training as part of the class curriculum with the approval of the educational provider. Washington State legislation RCW 66.20.010 (12) a-f.
Pre-requisites: minimum 18 years of age or older; RCLS 301 or permission of instructor.
Focuses on learning the essentials of craft beer, including beer styles and origin, qualitative and quantitative characteristics of beer, beer ingredients, the brewing process, beer and food pairing, keeping and serving beer, beer flavor and evaluation.
RCLS 375. WHITEWATER RAFTING GUIDE TECHNIQUES. 4 Credits.
Notes: the class will raft sections of the Spokane River weekly and conclude with a four-day river trip.
Pre-requisites: junior standing.
This course provides basic whitewater rafting skills needed to work in the whitewater rafting industry. Students learn how to paddle captain, row a gear boat, and how to lead single-day and multi-day rafting trips. Students also learn how to prepare for whitewater rafting trips, manage risk, provide basic rescue techniques and have the ability to earn a Swiftwater Rescue Certification from the American Canoe Association.
RCLS 380. EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING AND LEADERSHIP. 4 Credits.
Pre-requisites: English proficiency, or permission of the instructor.
This course allows students to examine and apply theoretical and practical foundations of experiential learning, adult learning, and leadership within a variety of group-based environments. The course centers on exploring experiential methodologies and leadership assessments used to custom design experiences that drive transformation in individuals, groups, and organizations.
RCLS 385. EVENT PLANNING AND EXPERIENCE DESIGN. 4 Credits.
Pre-requisites: RCLS 201, or permission of the instructor.
This course offers a theoretical and applied understanding of event planning within the various fields related to the recreation and experience industry. Students explore personal leadership styles, event planning and preparation, and activity implementation through individual and collaborative learning experiences. Students apply and develop knowledge through experiences that reflect the theoretical and logistical elements comprising event planning and experience design.
RCLS 395. INTERNSHIP. 1-15 Credits.
Pre-requisites: permission of the instructor, department chair and college dean.
An opportunity to gain field experience with various recreation and leisure service agencies.
RCLS 396. EXPERIMENTAL COURSE. 1-5 Credits.
RCLS 400. LIABILITY AND RISK MANAGEMENT IN RECREATION EXPERIENCE MANAGEMENT. 4 Credits.
Pre-requisites: RCLS 201 and RCLS 220, or permission of the instructor.
This course provides an introduction to the principles of liability and risk management as they pertain to the recreation industry. An examination of the pervasive nature of risk along with the concepts and methods of risk management are studied. Students become familiar with a body of legal knowledge that helps them reduce liability exposure and manage the risks that are a part of the recreation profession.
RCLS 405. WILDERNESS UPGRADE FOR MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS. 4 Credits.
Pre-requisites: PHED 194 or permission of the instructor.
This course will provide the necessary skills to assist an injured or ill person in a wilderness environment where advanced medical help is delayed by time, terrain, weather or distance. The focus of this class is on the acquisition of skills and knowledge to be able to assess a victim's condition, make an appropriate decision regarding treatment, use available or otherwise improvise the necessary supplies or equipment to manage the patient's condition and implement a plan for evacuation.
RCLS 407. ESSENTIALS OF BREWING. 3 Credits.
Notes: The alcohol served to any person in the program is tasted, but not consumed, for the purposes of educational training as part of the class curriculum with the approval of the educational provider. Washington State legislation RCW 66.20.010 (12) a-f.
Pre-requisites: minimum 21 years of age; RCLS 301 or RCLS 373 or permission of instructor.
The essentials of brewing course focuses on learning the fundamentals of the brewing process through both theoretical knowledge and practical skill application. Topics include: equipment and tools, ingredients and supply chains, styles and recipe development, yeast and fermentation, sensory vocabulary, cleaning and sanitation, and packaging. Students will brew a beer together during this class.
RCLS 410. OUTDOOR LEADERSHIP. 3 Credits.
Pre-requisites: junior standing.
This course explores the components of effective outdoor leadership in wilderness-based environments. The course foci are outdoor leadership methods, techniques, and procedures that are essential to leading outdoor and wilderness-based field trips. Facilitation techniques, teaching techniques, risk management, and small group communication are emphasized.
RCLS 415. SEARCH AND RESCUE MANAGEMENT. 4 Credits.
Pre-requisites: junior standing or permission of the instructor.
A practical approach to learning search and rescue techniques and management. Emphasis on administrative procedures. A variety of resource specialists will present portions of the course.
RCLS 420. PROGRAM PLANNING AND EVALUATION IN THERAPEUTIC RECREATION. 4 Credits.
Pre-requisites: permission of the instructor.
This course examines the foundations, principles, and procedures utilized in developing therapeutic recreation programs to ensure effectiveness in facilitating change. Students learn a systematic approach to designing, implementing, and evaluating accountable, outcome-oriented therapeutic recreation programs.
RCLS 422. EXPEDITION PLANNING AND LEADERSHIP. 4 Credits.
Notes: students will develop and lead a multi-day wilderness-based experience at the end of the quarter.
Pre-requisites: RCLS 206 or permission of instructor.
This course teaches students how to plan and lead outdoor recreation experiences in wilderness environments for multiple populations. Students become familiar with planning adventure experiences, leadership approaches for varying environments, risk management for particular activities, the permit process with government agencies, and budgeting for extended field experiences.
RCLS 425. EVALUATION AND RESEARCH METHODS IN RECREATION EXPERIENCE MANAGEMENT. 4 Credits.
Pre-requisites: RCLS 385.
This course covers basic methods of personnel and program components. Methods of sampling and survey techniques are addressed as they relate to recreation and leisure services.
RCLS 435. PROFESSIONAL PREPARATION IN RECREATION EXPERIENCE MANAGEMENT. 2 Credits.
Pre-requisites: RCLS 201 and RCLS 220.
This course introduces the recreation student to the employment process: recruiting, application, cover letter, resume screening, interviewing, checking of references, hiring, on-the-job training, and probationary period.
RCLS 438. PROFESSIONAL ISSUES IN OUTDOOR RECREATION. 2 Credits.
Pre-requisites: senior standing and declared Outdoor Recreation Leadership major.
This course provides a foundation for many of the current professional issues in the field of outdoor recreation. Students will learn about current issues within outdoor recreation programs, outdoor education programs, public land management, and approaches to outdoor leadership. Students will learn about the professional opportunities that exist within the different sectors of the outdoor recreation industry and will help prepare them for their professional internship.
RCLS 440. PROFESSIONAL ISSUES IN THERAPEUTIC RECREATION. 4 Credits.
Pre-requisites: permission of the instructor.
This course provides an examination of contemporary issues and trends impacting the profession of therapeutic recreation. Topics covered include standards of practice, ethical guidelines, credentialing, philosophy, training and competency, reimbursement, research initiatives, and professional challenges.
RCLS 445. PROCESSES AND TECHNIQUES IN THERAPEUTIC RECREATION. 4 Credits.
Pre-requisites: permission of the instructor.
This course covers foundational knowledge necessary for the effective facilitation of recreation therapy interventions. The course covers the principles of leadership, helping relationships, communication skills, and group dynamics. Students learn the detailed application of the modalities and facilitation techniques used in professional practice.
RCLS 450. ASSESSMENT, DOCUMENTATION, AND EVALUATION IN THERAPEUTIC RECREATION. 4 Credits.
Pre-requisites: permission of the instructor.
This course is designed to cover the critical components of client assessment, documentation, and evaluation in the therapeutic recreation process. Course content includes protocol development, client assessment, (standardized assessment, interview, observation, and record review), and the process of treatment planning, documentation, and evaluation. Client evaluation will be discussed as it relates to client assessed outcomes.
RCLS 455. RESORT AND COMMERCIAL RECREATION MANAGEMENT. 3 Credits.
Pre-requisites: RCLS 201.
This course is intended to provide working management knowledge related to resort and commercial recreation enterprises.
RCLS 460. THERAPEUTIC RECREATION ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGEMENT. 4 Credits.
Pre-requisites: permission of the instructor.
This course examines program, personnel, fiscal, and facilities management, including professional standards of practice and accreditation standards that guide and regulate organization and delivery of therapeutic recreation services in health care and human services settings.
RCLS 462. FOUNDATIONS OF TRAVEL AND TOURISM. 4 Credits.
Pre-requisites: RCLS 455.
This course provides students with an introduction and overview of the travel and tourism industry including historical, behavioral, societal and business aspects of travel and tourism. Narrowing in focus, students learn about the impact of tourism on communities and strategies for sustainability. Students examine various sectors of the tourism industry and have the opportunity to explore their own special areas of interest.
RCLS 463. GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP AND INTERNATIONAL TOURISM. 4 Credits.
Notes: offered spring quarter.
Students explore global citizenship with regard to travel and tourism. In particular, students examine ethical dilemmas in travel and tourism and learn how to research and identify environmental, socio-cultural and economic impacts of tourism on the destination.
RCLS 465. SEMINAR IN TRAVEL AND TOURISM. 4 Credits.
Pre-requisites: RCLS 462 or permission of the instructor.
This course is designed to offer recreation management majors an insight into some of the multidimensional and complex issues currently seen in the travel and tourism industry. Students explore, problem solve, report, and discuss current issues as presented in a series of tourism case-study scenarios. In addition, students gain hands-on experience by planning and implementing a seven-day field trip to a major tourist destination or city.
RCLS 470. ORGANIZATIONAL MANAGEMENT AND ADMINISTRATION IN RECREATION EXPERIENCE MANAGEMENT. 4 Credits.
Pre-requisites: RCLS 425 or permission of the instructor.
This course covers local, state, and federal recreation and park programs; their organization and administration, and their relation to other social institutions; special emphasis on planning, financing and legislative provisions, governmental control, budget, personnel, departmental organization, and administrative practices, especially on the local level.
RCLS 480. FINANCIAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT IN RECREATION EXPERIENCE. 4 Credits.
Pre-requisites: RCLS 201 and RCLS 385, or permission of the instructor.
This course identifies traditional and innovative methods of financial resource management in the recreation and experience industry. The primary content focus is at the public and private level along with an analysis of personal spending and financial management procedures.
RCLS 490. SENIOR CAPSTONE IN RECREATION. 4 Credits.
Notes: this course is designated as the capstone course for those students majoring in recreation and leisure services within the Department of WAMS.
Pre-requisites: RCLS 470 and senior standing.
Satisfies: a university graduation requirement–senior capstone.
This course focuses on the major issues and challenges facing recreation professionals as they enter the field. Utilizing group problem solving techniques, a multi-media presentation, and a research paper, students present and defend a position on an issue or develop a solution to an existing problem in the profession. Students demonstrate information literacy and the ability to locate and utilize scholarly resources during this process.
RCLS 492. EXPERIENCE ECONOMY ENTREPRENEURSHIP PROFESSIONAL INTERNSHIP. 12 Credits.
Pre-requisites: compliance with RCLS department's internship requirements; permission of the instructor.
Full-time working experience in a recreation or lifestyle small business or commercial operation setting. Actual involvement in recreation or lifestyle small business operations will be completed under professional and faculty supervision.
RCLS 493. THERAPEUTIC RECREATION PROFESSIONAL INTERNSHIP. 12 Credits.
Pre-requisites: declared Therapeutic Recreation Major and compliance with RCLS Department’s internship requirements or permission of instructor.
Full-time working experience in a therapeutic recreation service setting in line with student's professional aspirations. Actual involvement in recreation and program planning; implementation supervision and program evaluation under professional and faculty supervision.
RCLS 494. OUTDOOR RECREATION PROFESSIONAL INTERNSHIP. 12 Credits.
Pre-requisites: compliance with RCLS department’s internship requirements; permission of the instructor, department chair and college dean.
Full-time working experience in an outdoor recreation service setting in line with your professional aspirations. Actual involvement in recreation and program planning; implementation supervision and program evaluation under professional and faculty supervision.
RCLS 495. RECREATIONAL MANAGEMENT PROFESSIONAL INTERNSHIP. 12 Credits.
Pre-requisites: compliance with RCLS department’s internship requirements; permission of the instructor, department chair and college dean.
Full-time working experience in a recreation and leisure service setting in line with your professional aspirations. Actual involvement in recreation and program planning; implementation supervision and program evaluation under professional and faculty supervision.
RCLS 496. EXPERIMENTAL COURSE. 1-15 Credits.
RCLS 497. WORKSHOP, SHORT COURSE, CONFERENCE, SEMINAR. 1-5 Credits.
Periodically scheduled special workshops deal with aspects of recreation and leisure services.
RCLS 498. SEMINAR. 1-5 Credits.
Periodically scheduled special seminars deal with aspects of recreation and leisure services.
RCLS 499. DIRECTED STUDY. 1-15 Credits.
Pre-requisites: permission of the instructor, department chair and college dean.
Selected problems in the field of recreation and leisure services.
RCLS 542. SEMINAR. 1-5 Credits.
RCLS 599. INDEPENDENT STUDY. 1-10 Credits.