Leisure Studies Teacher in North Carolina Career Overview

As a Leisure Studies Teacher, you play a vital role in educating students about the importance and benefits of leisure activities and recreation. This profession encompasses a broad scope of responsibilities that extend beyond mere instruction.

  • You are responsible for developing and implementing curricula that explore various domains of leisure, including sports, tourism, wellness, and community recreation.
  • Your teaching impacts students' understanding of how leisure contributes to overall quality of life, health, and community engagement.
  • You facilitate class discussions, activities, and projects that encourage students to think critically about leisure practices and policies.
  • You may also oversee extracurricular activities and recreational programs, fostering a supportive environment that enhances students' social skills and teamwork.
  • Your expertise aids in preparing students for careers in recreation management, event planning, therapeutic recreation, and other related fields.

The role is not only about academic instruction; it also involves mentoring students and guiding them to appreciate the significance of leisure in personal and professional contexts. Through your work, you help cultivate informed, active citizens who can contribute positively to society.

Leisure Studies Teacher Salary in North Carolina

Annual Median: $65,900
Hourly Median: N/A

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Leisure Studies Teacher in North Carolina

To become a Leisure Studies Teacher in North Carolina, you are required to complete specific educational qualifications and training programs, which primarily include:

  • Bachelor’s Degree:

    • You will need to obtain a Bachelor's degree in one of the following areas:
      • Parks and Recreation Management
      • Leisure Studies
      • Recreation Leadership
      • Leisure Services
      • Recreation and Park Administration

  • Teacher Preparation Program:

    • In addition to your degree, you must complete a teacher preparation program. This program will provide you with the necessary pedagogical skills and knowledge to teach effectively.

  • Licensure:

    • You will need to acquire a North Carolina teaching license. This generally involves completing required coursework in education and passing relevant licensure examinations.

  • Continuing Education:

    • Once you obtain your license, participating in continuing education opportunities is encouraged to maintain your certification and stay current with new developments in the field.

These educational steps will prepare you for a successful career as a Leisure Studies Teacher in North Carolina.

Best Schools to become a Leisure Studies Teacher in North Carolina 2024

#1Miami-Dade County

Florida International University

Miami, FL

In-State Tuition:$4,721
Out-of-State Tuition:$16,529
Admission Rate:64%
Graduation Rate:69%
Total Enrollment:55,609
#2Pickens County

Clemson University

Clemson, SC

In-State Tuition:$14,118
Out-of-State Tuition:$38,062
Admission Rate:43%
Graduation Rate:85%
Total Enrollment:28,466
#3Monroe County

Indiana University-Bloomington

Bloomington, IN

In-State Tuition:$10,012
Out-of-State Tuition:$37,685
Admission Rate:82%
Graduation Rate:81%
Total Enrollment:47,005
#4Champaign County

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Champaign, IL

In-State Tuition:$14,542
Out-of-State Tuition:$35,122
Admission Rate:45%
Graduation Rate:85%
Total Enrollment:56,916
#5Wake County

North Carolina State University at Raleigh

Raleigh, NC

In-State Tuition:$6,535
Out-of-State Tuition:$28,276
Admission Rate:47%
Graduation Rate:85%
Total Enrollment:36,700
#6Watauga County

Appalachian State University

Boone, NC

In-State Tuition:$4,242
Out-of-State Tuition:$20,246
Admission Rate:83%
Graduation Rate:75%
Total Enrollment:20,436
Leisure Studies Teacher Job Description:
  • Teach courses pertaining to recreation, leisure, and fitness studies, including exercise physiology and facilities management.
  • Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

Leisure Studies Teacher Required Skills and Competencies in North Carolina

  • Communication Skills: You must clearly convey information and concepts about leisure and recreation, both verbally and in writing, to students and other stakeholders.

  • Interpersonal Skills: Building strong relationships with students, parents, and colleagues is essential. You should be approachable and empathetic, fostering a supportive learning environment.

  • Organizational Skills: You will need to effectively manage classroom activities, schedules, and resources to create a structured and efficient learning experience.

  • Critical Thinking: Analyzing situations and developing creative solutions will be important in addressing diverse student needs and challenges within the curriculum.

  • Cultural Competency: Understanding and respecting diverse backgrounds and perspectives will help you create an inclusive environment where all students feel valued and engaged.

  • Instructional Skills: You should be adept at designing and implementing engaging lesson plans that align with curriculum standards while promoting active participation.

  • Assessment and Evaluation: The ability to assess student progress through various methods, including observation, projects, and exams, will help you tailor instruction to meet individual learning needs.

  • Technology Proficiency: Familiarity with educational technology and tools will enhance your teaching methods and enable you to integrate digital resources effectively into your lessons.

  • Leadership Ability: You will often take on a guiding role in class and extracurricular activities, so being able to inspire and motivate students and peers is vital.

  • Passion for Leisure and Recreation: A genuine enthusiasm for leisure studies will help you impart knowledge and inspire students to appreciate the importance of leisure in everyday life.

Job Duties for Leisure Studies Teachers

  • Initiate, facilitate, and moderate classroom discussions.

  • Maintain student attendance records, grades, and other required records.

  • Prepare course materials, such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts.

Technologies and Skills Used by Leisure Studies Teachers

Computer based training software

  • Learning management system LMS
  • Softworks Global PESoftOne

Electronic mail software

  • Email software
  • Microsoft Outlook

Word processing software

  • Google Docs
  • Microsoft Word

Basic Skills

  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
  • Talking to others

People and Technology Systems

  • Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Leisure Studies Teacher in North Carolina

  • Current Demand: The demand for Leisure Studies Teachers has seen a modest increase in North Carolina, driven by a rising focus on recreation and wellness programs in educational institutions. Schools are recognizing the importance of leisure education in promoting a balanced and healthy lifestyle among students, leading to more job openings in this field.

  • Growth Potential: Projections indicate a stable growth potential for Leisure Studies Teachers over the next decade. As awareness of the benefits of leisure and recreation continues to grow, institutions may expand their curricula to incorporate more specialized classes and programs, creating additional roles in community colleges and universities.

  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • Urban Areas: Metropolitan regions such as Charlotte, Raleigh, and Greensboro are experiencing higher demands for Leisure Studies Teachers due to population growth and the establishment of new educational institutions. These cities often have diverse student bodies and a wide range of recreational facilities.

    • College Towns: Areas with universities or colleges, such as Boone (home to Appalachian State University) or Wilmington (University of North Carolina Wilmington), are hotspots for leisure studies programs. These institutions often seek experienced educators to develop innovative courses and recreational programs.

    • Community Colleges: Many community colleges across the state are enhancing their recreational programs to meet local community needs, resulting in openings for qualified Leisure Studies Teachers who can contribute to these initiatives.

  • Emerging Opportunities: The rise of online education has opened additional pathways for Leisure Studies Teachers. Positions for remote teaching and curriculum development can be found, broadening employment opportunities beyond traditional classroom settings.

  • Integration with Other Disciplines: There is an increasing trend of integrating leisure studies with health, wellness, and sports management courses. This interdisciplinary approach can lead to new job roles that combine leisure education with health promotion initiatives, further expanding the job market.

By being aware of these market dynamics, you can better navigate your career path in leisure studies education throughout North Carolina.

Top Related Careers to Leisure Studies Teacher 2024

Fitness and Wellness Lecturer
Exercise Science Instructor
Sports Management Educator
Kinesiology Professor

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Leisure Studies Teacher in North Carolina

  • National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA)
    Website: nrpa.org
    A leading organization in the field of parks and recreation, NRPA offers various resources including research articles, professional development opportunities, and a comprehensive job board.

  • American Association for Leisure and Recreation (AALR)
    Website: aahperd.org/aalr
    AALR provides resources for educators and professionals in leisure studies, including professional standards, conferences, and publications pertinent to the leisure industry.

  • Playworld
    Website: playworld.com
    This site focuses on the importance of play in education and offers instructional materials that can enhance your teaching methods in leisure studies.

  • North Carolina Recreation and Park Association (NCRPA)
    Website: ncrpa.net
    NCRPA is a state-specific organization that provides resources, training, and advocacy for recreation and park professionals in North Carolina.

  • Society of Park and Recreation Educators (SPARE)
    Website: aapra.org/spare
    An excellent source for networking and obtaining the latest research and instructional practices in park and recreation education.

  • The Journal of Leisure Research
    Website: leisureresearch.org
    This peer-reviewed journal offers research articles and studies that can inform your teaching strategies and deepen your understanding of leisure theories.

  • American Leisure Studies Association (ALSA)
    Website: les.unt.edu/als
    ALSA focuses on promoting excellence in leisure studies education and provides resources for educators and researchers in the field.

  • North Carolina Alliance of YMCAs
    Website: ymcacentralnc.org
    This organization provides resources and programs that may be beneficial for Leisure Studies Teachers looking to collaborate or find practical applications for their curriculum.

  • Books and Publications

    • "Leisure Studies: Themes, Issues and Directions" by C. Rojek
    • "The Sociology of Leisure" by R. K. G. W. Harrison
    • Check local libraries or online retailers for these titles, which can enhance your knowledge and offer new perspectives on leisure theory and practice.

  • TED Talks on Leisure and Recreation
    Website: ted.com/topics/leisure
    This resource offers various informative talks that address the role of leisure in a balanced life, perfect for inspiring discussions in your classroom.

  • Coursera - Courses on Recreation and Leisure Studies
    Website: coursera.org
    Explore various online courses related to leisure studies, allowing you to expand your professional knowledge and teaching methods.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Leisure Studies Teacher in North Carolina

  • What does a Leisure Studies Teacher do?
    A Leisure Studies Teacher instructs students on the principles and practices of leisure and recreation management. They cover topics such as event planning, leisure service delivery, and recreational activities, helping students understand how leisure impacts individuals and communities.

  • What qualifications are required to become a Leisure Studies Teacher in North Carolina?
    To become a Leisure Studies Teacher, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in Leisure Studies, Recreation Management, Physical Education, or a related field. Additionally, you must obtain a teaching license from the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, which usually involves passing state exams and completing a student teaching internship.

  • Is prior experience in leisure or recreational activities necessary?
    While it is not strictly required, having prior experience in leisure or recreational activities can be beneficial. It can help you build relevant knowledge and skills, making your teaching more practical and engaging for students.

  • What skills are essential for a Leisure Studies Teacher?
    Important skills include effective communication, organizational abilities, creativity, and a strong understanding of recreational management. Being adaptable and having strong interpersonal skills is also valuable, as you will interact with diverse groups of students and potentially community organizations.

  • What is the job outlook for Leisure Studies Teachers in North Carolina?
    The job outlook for Leisure Studies Teachers aligns with trends in education and recreation management. As emphasis on health and wellness increases and public interest in recreational programs grows, opportunities may become more prevalent within educational institutions and community organizations.

  • Where do Leisure Studies Teachers typically work?
    Leisure Studies Teachers primarily work in high schools, community colleges, and universities. They may also find roles in community recreation centers, non-profit organizations, and other educational settings that offer leisure and recreational studies.

  • What is the average salary for Leisure Studies Teachers in North Carolina?
    Salaries for Leisure Studies Teachers can vary based on education level, experience, and the specific school district. As of recent data, average salaries range from $40,000 to $60,000 annually, with potential for additional compensation through coaching or extracurricular activities.

  • Are there opportunities for professional development in this field?
    Yes, there are numerous opportunities for professional development. Many educational institutions provide workshops and conferences, and organizations such as the North Carolina Recreation and Park Association (NCRPA) offer resources and training to enhance your skills and advance your career.

  • What types of courses will I teach as a Leisure Studies Teacher?
    You will likely teach courses related to leisure theory, event planning, recreational leadership, and community health. Courses may also cover topics such as sport management, outdoor education, and cultural aspects of leisure.

  • Can you pursue additional certifications in this field?
    Yes, pursuing additional certifications can enhance your qualifications. Consider certifications from recognized organizations such as the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) or specialized certifications in areas like therapeutic recreation, event management, or outdoor education.