One of the most attractive features of the therapeutic recreation profession is the great opportunity for variety and diversity. There are constant challenges and the opportunity for continued professional growth. The opportunity to positively impact the quality of life of an individual with a disability or limitation is extremely rewarding.

Professional Preparation in Therapeutic Recreation

Therapeutic recreation is provided by professionals who are trained and certified, registered and/or licensed to provide therapeutic recreation services. Most employers require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in therapeutic recreation or in recreation with an option or emphasis in therapeutic recreation. We offer a concentration in Therapeutic Recreation as part of the Bachelor of Science in Health Science. All of the upper division courses required to complete this program are available by web based distance learning. For those who already have a bachelor degree, we also offer an eighteen credit certificate in Therapeutic Recreation. Both programs include the therapeutic recreation courses required to sit for the national certification exam to become a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRS). Supportive courses in anatomy and physiology, abnormal psychology, and human growth and development are also required for certification. Before the student will be eligible for certification he or she will need to work under a CTRS for one year. For more information on becoming a CTRS, visit the The National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) web site.

Therapeutic recreation services contribute to the broad spectrum of health care through treatment (recreational therapy), education, and the provision of adapted recreational opportunities—all of which are instrumental to improving and maintaining physical, cognitive, emotional, and social functioning, preventing secondary health conditions, enhancing independent living skills and the overall quality of life.

Therapeutic Recreation Settings

With certification in therapeutic recreation, a practitioner can work in a variety of agencies and organizations. The possibilities include acute care hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, psychiatric hospitals, community recreation centers, pediatric hospitals, group homes, senior centers, community mental health centers, public and private schools, correctional facilities and private practice. Services are provided for individuals with a variety of disabilities, illnesses and chronic conditions. Individuals of all ages benefit from the services provided by certified therapeutic recreation specialists (CTRS). Unique to the FGCU program is a concentration in gerontology and TR.

Employment Outlook

Therapeutic recreation offers a unique career opportunity for individuals who value leisure experiences and enjoy working with people with disabilities.  The rapidly growing number of older adults is expected to spur job growth for recreational therapy professionals and paraprofessionals in assisted-living facilities, adult daycare programs, and other social assistance agencies. Continued growth also is expected in community residential care facilities, as well as daycare programs for individuals with disabilities.

For more information visit:

• The Recreational Therapy Professional
• U.S. Department of Labor: Recreation Therapist

This is a web based distance learning program. Some courses may be taken on campus if desired.

Degree Requirements · Course Descriptions