University of Northern Iowa
School of Health, Physical Education & Leisure Services
Division of Leisure, Youth and Human Services
Student Learning Outcomes
Ed.D. in Leisure, Youth and Human Services
The Ed.D. in Leisure, Youth and Human Services is designed to foster preparation for advanced
professional leadership roles in the administration of leisure, youth and human service agencies.
The program supports professional development through the utilization of relevant philosophy,
content, and skills in order to provide evaluation, management and leadership development for
effective and efficient delivery of leisure, youth and human services.
Outcome 1: Demonstrate mastery of content in the chosen area of specialization
 Demonstrate knowledge of the historical and cultural conceptual foundations of
recreation, leisure and play for diverse populations in a variety of settings, including the
development of the LYHS profession.
 Demonstrate knowledge of the psychological, sociological, and physiological significance
of recreation, leisure and play throughout the life cycle, relative to attitudes, values,
behaviors and use of resources.
 Demonstrate knowledge of the concepts of organizational behavior, appropriate
management techniques, accountability, interpersonal relations, decision-making
strategies, and evaluation of staff and volunteers.
 Identify contemporary professional issues and the trends that affect leisure, youth and
human service agencies.
 Demonstrate the ability to use communication tools effectively, including computer
technology, written and oral communication skills, and audio-visual techniques.
Outcome 2: Demonstrate knowledge of the research/evaluation process
 Demonstrate knowledge of the purpose, procedures, interpretation, and application of
research and evaluation methodology related to leisure, youth and human services.
 Exhibit the ability to search academic data bases/tools and statistical software.
 Conduct independent evaluation projects with leisure, youth and human service
agencies.
Outcome 3: Demonstrate the ability to conduct independent research
 Demonstrate knowledge of how empirical questions or statements are formulated;
identify the variables and procedures needed to conduct the research or evaluation
project, including the various methods used to arrive at sound conclusions and
appropriate recommendations.
 Express the skill of presenting theoretical knowledge and research outcomes through
written, electronic, or oral means.