The Division of Leisure, Youth and Human Services fields are expanding rapidly as societal changes occur. LYHS personnel are challenged to show people how to enhance their quality of life. The LYHS major at the University of Northern Iowa is one of 101 accredited programs in the United States. The academic program values practical, experiential education that provides students a transition from theory to practice. The leisure, youth and human services fields are historically related to other areas such as sociology, psychology, criminal justice, adaptive physical education, wellness, social work, youth development, physical education and
community health.

The mission of the Division of Leisure, Youth and Human Services is to:

1. Provide quality teaching in an academic environment that challenges students to develop decision-making and problem-solving abilities, be receptive to change and adaptation, enhance entrepreneurial and intrapreneurial skills, and promote collaboration and interaction with other individuals and organizations.

2. Foster student-faculty scholarship that develops and tests theoretical and applied models of practice, concepts, and ideas that impact the delivery of services and programs.

3. Create opportunities to engage in meaningful community service activities on the local, state, national, and international levels that encourage the development of a positive service ethic.