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Course: Therapeutic Recreation
Gardening can help people heal from sickness and increase their ability to function. What is it about digging in the dirt that's so helpful? Maybe it’s the fresh air that perks us up. Maybe it’s seeing the rewards of our work: the big pile of weeds we've pulled or the row of seedlings we've planted. Maybe observing the beauty and power of nature -- flowers blossoming from one day to the next -- helps us heal. Most likely, we benefit from a combination of all these factors.
As a therapeutic recreation major, you’ll learn how to use activities like gardening to help people overcome obstacles and improve their lives.
This program prepares students to plan, organize, and direct recreational activities that encourage the health and well-being of patients with physical, mental, or emotional disabilities.
Did You Know?
Although some schools offer associate’s degree programs in therapeutic recreation, you’ll need a bachelor's degree to become certified in the field.
Are You Ready To...?
- Join campus recreation and therapeutic recreation clubs
- Complete internships
- Volunteer or work leading recreational activities with various groups
- Build skills in a range of recreational activities
- Design mock treatment programs
It Helps To Be...
A warm, friendly person with strong leadership and communication skills. You'll need to be able to motivate others while showing patience toward clients with limited abilities. You'll enjoy this major if you like planning and running programs and activities.
College Checklist
- What do recent graduates have to say about the program?
- Will the program help you find work after graduation?
- Do the professors work as recreational therapists?
- What are the professors' particular areas of interest?
- What recreation facilities, such as swimming pools, are on campus?
- What percent of graduates find jobs as recreational therapists?
Did You Know?
One example of recreational therapy is the "ropes course," in which groups of people climb and swing on ropes high above the ground. It promotes self-confidence, problem-solving skills, and teamwork.
Course Spotlight
One of the most valuable experiences you'll have isn't actually a course. It's a hands-on learning opportunity that your school may call an internship or a practicum. You might be placed in a mental hospital, a school for deaf children, or a home for the elderly. You might help people dance, make sculptures, or take nature hikes.
The practice you gain as you plan, run, and evaluate recreational activities will help you immensely once you accept your first real job.