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Why study Recreation (Therapeutic) at Dalhousie?

Learn how recreation and leisure experiences can be used to improve the quality of life of people with disabilities, illnesses and other limitations. One of a few four-year degrees of its kind, Dalhousie's Recreation program was the first to be accredited in Canada. You'll be prepared to write the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) exam to become a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS).

What will I learn?

The goal of the program is to provide students with the theoretical and practical skills to work in a variety of settings as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS). Since we only accept approximately 25 students each year, class sizes are very small, and you have the opportunity to work closely with faculty and fellow students.

In first year, along with the introductory leisure studies course, you’ll take a range of introductory courses in other departments, such as physiology, sociology, psychology and anatomy. In years two to four, your courses will reflect your individual interests in the program—anything from leadership and dynamics to community development.

In the final year of the program a 16-week internship, under the supervision of a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, takes you out of the classroom and provides you with hands-on work experience that enhances your studies.

Sample courses:

• Foundations of Recreation
• Leisure and Individuals with Disabilities
• Therapeutic Recreation Service Delivery

Careers and future study:

Graduates from Dalhousie's Recreation program are in demand now, as public and private organizations plan for an aging and increasingly diverse population. Therapeutic recreation is a rapidly growing field, and new career opportunities are constantly being created. You'll be well prepared to start a rewarding career as a member of an interdisciplinary team within the healthcare and recreation sectors. You might consider careers in the following areas:

• rehabilitation
• pediatrics
• palliative care

Future studies could include programs at the graduate level in science, health, or business administration.