Therapeutic Recreation Introduction
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.
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BYU-Idaho Graduate Salaries
Graduates entering the workforce as recreational therapists can expect a median national starting salary of approximately $60,280 with BYU-Idaho alumni reporting an average of $45,162. Your earning potential grows significantly as you obtain national certification and specialize in clinical settings like hospitals or government agencies.
Common Career Paths
You will be prepared for impactful roles such as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist or an Adaptive Recreation Coordinator in hospitals and community health centers. This program equips you with the clinical skills and professional network needed to design life changing interventions for individuals with diverse physical and mental health needs.
Preparation for Grad School
This degree provides an excellent clinical foundation for students pursuing advanced programs in occupational therapy, physical therapy, or healthcare administration. You will graduate with the rigorous research and documentation experience required to excel in prestigious master’s and doctoral programs across the allied health professions.
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