Therapeutic Recreation

What to expect from the program

Through a combination of classroom and hands-on learning, you will learn how to use recreation, leisure, and play to help individuals maintain optimal health and well-being.

After completing the program, you will be prepared to:

• Work with clients of all ages and abilities
• Work in a variety of health care settings
• Work as part of a multidisciplinary health care team
• Demonstrate leadership, professionalism, and clinical reasoning

This program includes flexible study options, including in person, online, and a blend of the two. Please see the delivery options section listed below to determine the best learning modality for you.

Graduate with experience

On-the-job learning provides a unique opportunity for students to practice the skills they developed in the classroom and labs in real-world situations. This experience allows students to improve their confidence, problem solving skills, and ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team. It also gives students valuable experience they can include on their resume and cover letter.

During the Therapeutic Recreation program, you will complete two practicums and graduate with 480 hours of work experience.

Additional information

The program provides the requirements for professional membership (diploma holder) status with the Alberta Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA).

Therapeutic recreation professionals who wish to meet ATRA standards are welcome to take individual courses through Open Studies. You are advised to first email ATRA@alberta-tr.org to determine specific course needs, and then apply for Open Studies. After applying, you can contact the program chair at 780.644.6300 to request enrolment in specific courses.

Career opportunities

Upon successful completion of the program, you can explore career opportunities to work in the public or private healthcare systems as a recreation therapy assistant (RTA). 

Some of your responsibilities as an RTA may include: 

• Plan and lead leisure activities for clients of all ages and abilities 
• Document and report on client progress to assist clients to achieve their leisure related goals 
• Collaborate within a multidisciplinary health care team to deliver quality TR programming 
• Demonstrate leadership, professionalism, and clinical reasoning 

For more information on becoming an RTA and related careers, see: 

• ALIS OCCinfo occupational profiles
• ALIS WAGEinfo salary info 

You can also visit the Alberta Therapeutic Recreation Association for more information on this career. 

This program prepares you to step confidently into your field while providing the flexibility to continue your education. Credits you earn may be transferable toward additional diplomas, degrees, or certifications—helping you advance your career and increase your earning potential.

Explore transfer pathways 

What to expect as a therapeutic recreation professional

Applicants should review the job requirements listed below and assess their ability to fulfill the demands of the therapeutic recreation occupation.

Working in therapeutic recreation, you must be able to:

• Work shifts and weekends
• Be on your feet for extended periods of time
• Use your knees, back, and arms to move clients who have minimal body strength
• Be comfortable taking a leadership role in groups of all sizes
• Work with clients of all ages, cultures, and genders
• Work independently to deliver leisure programming
• Collaborate effectively as part of a healthcare team
• Demonstrate adaptability and critical thinking skills