Therapeutic Recreation/Recreational Therapy Major
This major is a program that prepares individuals to plan, organize, and direct recreational activities designed to promote health and well-being for patients who are physically, mentally, or emotionally disabled.
Includes instruction in the foundations of therapeutic recreation, leisure education and counseling, program planning, therapeutic recreational modalities, basic anatomy and physiology, psychology, medical terminology, human growth and development, patient observation and evaluation, special needs populations, and professional standards and ethics.
What can you do with a major/degree in Therapeutic Recreation/Recreational Therapy Major?
As a Therapeutic/Recreational Therapist, it is your job to plan, direct, or coordinate medically approved recreation programs for patients in hospitals, nursing homes, or other institutions. Activities include sports, trips, dramatics, social activities, and crafts. May assess a patient condition and recommend appropriate recreational activity.
Job opportunities for Therapeutic/Recreational Therapists are very good in the future as this career subsector is expected to see an eight percent (8%) growth 2019-2029.
Therapeutic/Recreational Therapists need a bachelor’s degree. Some states require licensing. Many employers require therapists to be certified by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification.
Trade Associations and Professional Organizations in Therapeutic Recreation/Recreational Therapy Major
Professional associations are groups of professionals dedicated to topics in specific fields. Professional associations provide a wealth of online resources, some of which are geared specifically towards students. These organizations typically also host conferences and events, providing great opportunities for learning and networking across your field of interest.
- American Therapeutic Recreation Association
- National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification
- National Association of Activity Professionals
Publications/Magazines in Therapeutic Recreation/Recreational Therapy Major
- Therapeutic Recreation Journal