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Bachelor of Science

Therapeutic Recreation (B.S.)

Help people improve their well-being through recreation! A degree in Therapeutic Recreation trains students to work in hospitals, assisted living, and community programs—in roles such as recreation therapists, therapeutic recreation specialists, and activity directors or activity coordinators.

Therapeutic Recreation Introduction

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Recreational Therapy is one of the fastest-growing allied health-related professions in the United States. Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRS) serve individuals with disabilities (physical, mental, intellectual, etc.). They use a variety of modalities, including arts and crafts, drama, music, and dance; sports and games; aquatics; and community outings to help maintain or improve a patient's physical, social, and emotional well-being.

They also serve at-risk children, youth, and senior citizens in institutional and community settings. Other settings could include hospitals, nursing homes, correctional facilities, wilderness programs, community centers, and senior centers.

Therapeutic Recreation combines science, service, and hands-on practice. Students will learn:

  • Understanding human behavior and anatomy. 
  • The foundations of therapeutic practice 
  • Assessing individual needs and creating effective treatment or activity plans 
  • Applying evidence-based methods to support progress 
  • Building professional communication, documentation, and interpersonal skills
Accelerated options are available for the Bachelor of Science in Therapeutic Recreation degree. See an academic advisor for more information.

Academic Advising

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Highlighted Courses

Prepare to improve lives through purposeful recreation by studying human anatomy, psychology, program planning, inclusive recreation, and therapy techniques used in rehabilitation and healthcare settings.
November 03, 2025 08:30 AM
BIO 230
October 31, 2025 11:52 AM
RM 270
November 03, 2025 08:20 AM
HCA 280
September 26, 2025 10:16 AM
PSYCH 342
October 31, 2025 11:54 AM
RM 371
See Example Class Plan

Salary Outlook for BYUI Graduates

Explore earnings data for BYU-Idaho graduates in therapeutic recreation-related fields.

1 year

$39,163

Average Salary

Career Possibilities for Therapeutic Recreation

Graduates with a degree in Therapeutic Recreation have a wide array of rewarding careers before them. Check out some of the top careers students get with this degree or explore more career options in I-Plan.

Career Options

Data Source: Industry and occupation employment and wage estimates are modeled using data from Lightcast, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and other public sources. Figures are estimates and actual outcomes may vary by employer, experience, and location.

Dive Deeper Into Therapeutic Recreation

Explore helpful articles about this major, including career paths, skills, and opportunities. Get the insight you need to make an informed decision about your future at BYU-Idaho.

Explore Major Discovery
July 09, 2026 03:36 PM
Therapeutic recreation uses activities and experiences to help people rebuild their health and quality of life.
6 Min Read
July 09, 2026 01:38 PM
Learn the degree requirements, clinical experience, and board examination steps needed to begin a career as a licensed physical therapist assistant.
3 Min Read
July 09, 2026 04:02 PM
Discover the career paths and industry opportunities available to graduates in therapeutic recreation.
5 Min Read

AI in Academics

At BYU-Idaho, we are strategically integrating Artificial Intelligence to enhance academic excellence and prepare our students for an evolving world.

AI in Therapeutic Recreation
You will learn to thoughtfully apply artificial intelligence to support data informed treatment planning and improve documentation efficiency while maintaining a focus on individual client needs. Our curriculum emphasizes the ethical use of technology to augment clinical reasoning and advocate for human dignity within the therapeutic process.
Advance Knowledge, Enhancing Learning, and Developing Workforce Readiness
AI in Academics means learning to advance knowledge, enhancing learning, and developing workforce readiness through tools that support (not replace) your effort and integrity.

Related Majors

Help patients recover movement and manage pain under a physical therapist’s care.
Plan, organize, and lead leisure and recreational activities.

Next Steps With BYU-Idaho

Explore how to begin your academic journey at BYU-Idaho by starting your application today.
Learn how to update your academic path with simple instructions for requesting a major change.

Learn More About the Therapeutic Recreation Program

Request more information about the Therapeutic Recreation program and discover how BYU-Idaho can help you reach your goals.

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