Therapeutic Recreation

Program Overview

Therapeutic recreation is a career that attracts organized, outgoing, active individuals who like working with people of all abilities. You need to be good at encouraging people to set goals, develop skills and try new things.

Career opportunities are diverse—be a recreation therapist, a recreation coordinator, an activity director or programmer. Work as part of a multidisciplinary health care team in clinical or community-based settings, from hospitals to rehabilitation centres.

Therapeutic Recreation is a two-year diploma program offered at Saskatchewan Polytechnic Saskatoon campus . It is also offered through distance education. You’ll learn from knowledgeable instructors how to use recreation as a means of improving health, functional ability and quality of life. The program provides a broad knowledge base, from human growth and development to sociology. Your studies will focus on:

assessment of individual needs, functional abilities and leisure behaviours
development of individualized treatment plans
documenting progress
using facilitation techniques to meet individual goals
practicing therapeutic recreation based on professional standards
modifying activities to meet individual abilities
participating as a member of a health care team

Learn through Practical Experience

Apply what you’ve learned in class in real-world settings. The program includes three practicums. Each one will provide opportunities to apply assessment techniques, conduct activity analysis and selection, develop and evaluate treatment plans, get involved in individual and group program planning and more. You’ll also build important interpersonal and leadership abilities.

Pursue Professional Certification

If you’re interested in pursuing professional certification, the Canadian Therapeutic Recreation Association endorses the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification’s Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) as the certification for Canada.

Career and Salary Information

Your Career

When you graduate, you’ll be able to work in both clinical and community-based settings. You could work in a hospital as part of a multidisciplinary health care team, in a long-term care facility, adult day program, rehabilitation centre, addiction program or mental health program. Explore career opportunities with health regions, provincial or federal health agencies,

For more information, contact the Student Employment Services at a campus nearest you.

Potential Careers

Sample Job Title	NOC Classification¹	Earning Potential²
Recreation Therapist	Other Professional Occupations in Therapy and Assessment (3144)	$33,300 - $89,500
Therapeutic Recreation Programmer	Other Professional Occupations in Therapy and Assessment (3144)	$33,300 - $89,500
Recreation Therapy Assistant	Other Assisting Occupations in Support of Health Services (3414)	$31,200 - $61,900

Length and Start Date

Start Date(s): September:

There is an intake to this program every second year (odd numbered years only).

Length: 70 weeks:

Year 1 - 35 weeks; Year 2 - 35 weeks

Locations

Saskatoon

Admissions

Admission Requirements

Grade 12
English Language Requirement

Note:

Accepted applicants will be required to provide evidence of a Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Search prior to entering practicum. At the discretion of a practicum agency, you may be declined access to a practicum placement based on the contents of the Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Search. The cost of the Criminal Record Check and the Vulnerable Sector Search is your responsibility.
Accepted applicants are required to provide current immunization records and to meet Saskatchewan Polytechnic immunization requirements prior to entry into practicum.
Current certification in one of the following must be provided prior to entry into practicum:
- Professional Assault Response Training (PART)
- Wellness, Alcohol and Violence Education Program (WAVE)
- Gentle Persuasive Approaches (GPA)
- Nonviolent Crisis Intervention (NVCI)
Transferring Lifting Repositioning (TLR®) certification must be current to enter into practicum.
Accepted applicants are required to provide evidence of current N95 respirator mask testing prior to entry into the clinical practicum. The cost of N95 respirator mask testing is your responsibility.
Effective July 1, 2019: Accepted applicants are required to provide evidence of 2015 WHMIS Globally Harmonized System (GHS) certification upon admission into the program. Recertification will be required every three years to remain current. The cost of WHMIS certification is your responsibility.

Special Admission

Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through a special admission assessment. Interested individuals should still apply. Applicants are automatically considered for special admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met. Refer to the ACCUPLACER© cut scores for this program below, and review additional details concerning Special Admission.

ACCUPLACER©

250 Arithmetic
250 Reading
245 Writing
4 Writeplacer

Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of Saskatchewan Polytechnic programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake.

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year.

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

See Admission Processes for more information about this method of admission.

Tuition and Fees

Estimates are based on current rates and are subject to change. Amounts for a program may vary by campus. Totals shown here include all mandatory fees as well as books and supplies. For a complete breakdown of tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the Saskatchewan Polytechnic campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.

Year 2 - $9,600

International Students

View tuition rates for international students.

Courses

Expand All +

Year 1 - Semester 1

Code

Name/Description

Credits

APHY 189

Anatomy and Physiology

You will be introduced to the study of the human body and how it functions efficiently. You will study various body systems that are of critical importance for the promotion and maintenance of health.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 40.0
Equivalent Course(s): APHY 188, APHY 189CE, NURS 111
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning

HUMD 188

Human Growth and Development

You will learn the physical, sensory, perceptual, cognitive, social, and personality stages of human growth and development from conception to death.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Equivalent Course(s): HUMD 188CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Print Distance Individual, Prior Learning

HUMR 186

Interpersonal Skills

You will be introduced to the importance of interpersonal skills in the human services professions. You will develop effective listening and speaking behaviors that facilitate client interactions.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): COMM 291, COMM 295, HUMR 186CE, NEPS 114, NURS 114
Potential Learning Method(s): Independent Study, Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning

MTER 180

Medical Terminology

You will learn to use the prefixes, suffixes and combining forms from which medical terms are derived. You will also learn to use medical abbreviations.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 10.0
Equivalent Course(s): MED 161, MTER 180CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Print Distance Individual, Prior Learning

PSYC 188

Psychology A

You will be introduced to the scientific study of human behaviour. You will study psychology as a discipline of neuroscience and behaviour, sensation and perception, states of consciousness, learning and memory.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 40.0
Equivalent Course(s): PSYC 184, PSYC 188CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Print Distance Individual, Prior Learning

THRC 182

Foundations of Therapeutic Recreation

You will study the basic concepts necessary for formulating a philosophical and theoretical foundation in therapeutic recreation. You will explore the definitions, terms and concepts used in the field, the philosophy behind the profession, the history and development of the profession and current service delivery models.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Equivalent Course(s): THRC 182CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning

THRC 187

Introduction to Therapeutic Recreation Profession

You will develop an understanding of the diversity of the field of therapeutic recreation. You will focus on understanding the agency, the needs of the client population and the role of therapeutic recreation in supporting individuals with disability, illness, and/or chronic illness. You will learn the specific skills needed to work in this field.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): THRC 187CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning

THRC 188

Research and Evaluation in Therapeutic Recreation

You will examine the research process, types of research, data collection, basic statistical analysis and outcome and efficacy studies. You will explore the needs and issues specific to conducting research related to therapeutic recreation.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): THRC 188CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning

THRC 190

Health Promotion in Therapeutic Recreation

You will be introduced to the core concepts of health promotion discussing the determinants of health, and the relationship between heath and leisure. You will explore the Health Promotion/Health Protection model as it relates to therapeutic recreation. You will explore strategies and resources to encourage and promote involvement in physical activity and healthy eating for all people. You will explore skills for managing risk, stress and the life/work balance and will describe the role of therapeutic recreation in health promotion and disease prevention.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Equivalent Course(s): THRC 190CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning

Year 1 - Semester 2

Code

Name/Description

Credits

EMPL 180

Employability Skills

You will receive instruction and practice in written communication skills needed in the workplace. You will develop effective job search strategies, with emphasis on communicating a professional image through job search materials and interview skills.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): COM 103, COM 105, COMM 292, EMPL 180CE, EMPS 105
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Print Distance Group, Print Distance Individual, Prior Learning

PSYC 189

Psychology B

You will continue to examine the scientific examination of human behaviour introduced in PSYC 188, Psychology A. You will study intelligence, cognition and language, motivation and emotion, social psychology personality, health and stress.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 40.0
Prerequisites(s): PSYC 188
Equivalent Course(s): PSYC 189CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Print Distance Individual, Prior Learning

THRC 183

Physical and Cognitive Disabilities in Therapeutic Recreation Practice

You will study the etiology, symptoms and characteristics of common physical and cognitive disabilities and their impact on individuals. You will be introduced to the current practices of therapeutic recreation when supporting individuals with physical and cognitive disorders.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Equivalent Course(s): THRC 183CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning

THRC 184

Therapeutic Recreation Process

You will study the principles and procedures of the therapeutic recreation process. You will examine the various responsibilities that the therapeutic recreation professional has in providing accountable, client-based service. You will learn client assessment, individual and group program planning. You will examine activity analysis, adaptation, protocols, documentation and evaluation in terms of their importance in developing therapeutic recreation programs.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): THRC 182
Equivalent Course(s): THRC 183CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning

THRC 285

Therapeutic Recreation and Inclusive Leisure Services

You will develop an understanding of the importance of inclusive leisure services. You will learn strategies to help facilitate individual participation, meaningful recreation and leisure opportunities.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Equivalent Course(s): THRC 285CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning

THRC 289

Therapeutic Recreation and Aging

You will explore the relationship between leisure and aging and how to apply current therapeutic recreation practices to support older adults in a variety of settings. You will examine the myths and realities of aging and the impact of retirement, our health care system, and service delivery on older adults.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): HUMD 188
Equivalent Course(s): REC 288, THRC 185, THRC 298CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning

THRC 292

Therapeutic Recreation Integration Seminar 1

You will discuss practicum placement experiences to identify professional practice as it applies to therapeutic recreation services. You will have an opportunity to discuss the application of theory and knowledge on practice. You will begin to develop a framework for a professional portfolio outlining career goals as well as the knowledge and skills you have developed.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Prerequisites(s): EMPL 180(concurrent), HUMR 186(concurrent), THRC 182(concurrent), THRC 183(concurrent), THRC 184(concurrent), THRC 285(concurrent), THRC 187(concurrent)
Equivalent Course(s): THRC 292CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Print Distance Individual, Prior Learning

Year 1 - Semester 3

Code

Name/Description

Credits

PRAC 177

Therapeutic Recreation Practicum 1

The course provides an opportunity for you to apply knowledge and principles learned in the program. You will develop interpersonal skills, leadership skills and leadership techniques, explore how the agency meets the needs of its clientele and plan, implement and evaluate therapeutic recreation programs.
Credit Units: 9
Course Hours: 128.0
Prerequisites(s): EMPL 180, HUMR 186, THRC 182, THRC 183, THRC 184, THRC 285, THRC 187, THRC 292
Equivalent Course(s): PRAC 177CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum, Clinical/Practicum-Individual, Prior Learning

Year 2 - Semester 4

Code

Name/Description

Credits

SOCI 184

Sociology A

The course provides an introduction to the sociological perspective and addresses the study of people as social beings. You will examine culture, socialization processes and social inequality.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 40.0
Equivalent Course(s): SOCI 160, SOCI 184CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Print Distance Individual, Prior Learning

THRC 189

Therapeutic Recreation for Children and Youth

You will study the etiology, symptoms and characteristics of a number of common childhood and youth related disabilities, illnesses and/or health conditions. You will be introduced to the current practices and the role of therapeutic recreation when working with children and youth in a variety of settings.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): THRC 186, THRC 189CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning

THRC 281

Therapeutic Recreation Assessment

You will develop an in-depth understanding of the process and components of assessment in therapeutic recreation. You will review, analyze and apply a variety of therapeutic recreation assessment tools and techniques.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): THRC 184
Equivalent Course(s): THRC 281CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning

THRC 283

Mental Health, Addictions and Therapeutic Recreation

You will be introduced to current practices of therapeutic recreation when working with individuals with mental illness, addiction and social deviancy. You will study the etiology, symptoms and impact considerations of these populations.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Equivalent Course(s): THRC 283CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning

THRC 284

Therapeutic Recreation and Leisure Education

You will explore the role of leisure education in assisting individuals in leading a fulfilling leisure lifestyle. You will examine philosophical consideration, models and facilitation techniques common to leisure education. You will have the opportunity to apply this theory by developing leisure education programs.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): THRC 182
Equivalent Course(s): THRC 284CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning

THRC 293

Therapeutic Recreation Integration Seminar 2

You will discuss practicum placement experiences to begin identifying career opportunities in therapeutic recreation. You will have an opportunity to reflect on professional practice and discuss the application of theory and knowledge on practice. You will develop a professional portfolio outlining your career goals. Your portfolio will prepare you to showcase your abilities and secure a practicum placement of your choice.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Prerequisites(s): APHY 189(concurrent), HUMD 188(concurrent), MTER 180(concurrent), PRAC 177, THRC 188(concurrent), THRC 281(concurrent), THRC 284(concurrent), THRC 289(concurrent)
Equivalent Course(s): THRC 293CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning

Year 2 - Semester 5

Code

Name/Description

Credits

PRAC 280

Therapeutic Recreation Practicum 2

You will integrate the knowledge and experience you gained from course work and practical experience. You will apply client assessment techniques, activity analysis and selection, and individual and group program-planning skills. You will also continue to develop your professional skills.
Credit Units: 13
Course Hours: 194.0
Prerequisites(s): APHY 189, HUMD 188, MTER 180, PRAC 177, PSYC 188, PSYC 189, THRC 188, THRC 281, THRC 284, THRC 289, THRC 293
Equivalent Course(s): PRAC 280CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum, Clinical/Practicum-Individual, Prior Learning

Year 2 - Semester 6

Code

Name/Description

Credits

SOCI 185

Sociology B

Building on what you learned in SOCI 184, you will examine the importance of a sociological understanding in human service professions. You will study social institutions, social deviance, and issues facing mainstream and marginalized people in Canada.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 40.0
Prerequisites(s): SOCI 184
Equivalent Course(s): SOCI 185CE, SOCI 260, SOCI 282
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Print Distance Individual, Prior Learning

THRC 286

Therapeutic Recreation Program Management

You will learn the principles of program management/leadership and how they relate to delivering therapeutic recreation services. You will study organization and planning, department policies and procedures, human resource planning and volunteer management. Course content will include decision making, problem solving and conflict management as they relate to therapeutic recreation.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): THRC 184
Equivalent Course(s): THRC 286CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning

THRC 290

Issues and Trends in Therapeutic Recreation

You will examine the trends and issues that influence the provision of therapeutic recreation services. You will study cultural competence and be introduced to Aboriginal culture in therapeutic recreation. You will examine the role of spirituality within therapeutic recreation.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): PRAC 177
Equivalent Course(s): THRC 290CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning

THRC 291

Facilitation Techniques in Therapeutic Recreation

You will examine a number of techniques and activity-based therapies that therapeutic recreation professionals may employ. You will explore your role in utilizing these techniques and interventions as part of a comprehensive therapeutic recreation program.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): THRC 184
Equivalent Course(s): THRC 291CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning

THRC 294

Therapeutic Recreation Integration Seminar 3

You will reflect on practicum placement experiences to identify professional practice as it applies to therapeutic recreation services. You will complete a portfolio to integrate personal career goals with the practicum learning outcomes. You will develop a professional resume and cover letter and apply for a practicum placement with an agency. You will complete an interview upon selection by an agency.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Prerequisites(s): PRAC 280, SOCI 185(concurrent), THRC 189(concurrent), THRC 283(concurrent), THRC 286(concurrent), THRC 290(concurrent), THRC 291(concurrent)
Equivalent Course(s): THRC 294CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning

Year 2 - Semester 7

Code

Name/Description

Credits

PRAC 281

Therapeutic Recreation Practicum 3

You will continue to develop your ability to assess clients, design, implement and analyze therapeutic recreation programs and apply effective leadership and professional skills. You will also examine the administrative practices of a therapeutic recreation service and conduct an inservice related to the role of therapeutic recreation.
Credit Units: 17
Course Hours: 250.0
Prerequisites(s): PRAC 280, SOCI 185, THRC 189, THRC 283, THRC 286, THRC 290, THRC 291, THRC 294
Equivalent Course(s): PRAC 281CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum, Clinical/Practicum-Individual, Prior Learning

Note: Students must be admitted to the program before taking the practicums.

Get Credit for What You Know

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

Saskatchewan Polytechnic recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training. A detailed Candidate Guide, which includes a self-audit for all PLAR-ready courses, has been developed for this program. This information guides a candidate through all steps in the PLAR process.

Transfer Credit

Many Sask Polytech students benefit from transferring course credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit from or to another college or university. Learn more about Transfer Credit.

University of Lethbridge

Graduates of this program may be eligible for admittance into year three (3) of the University of Lethbridge's Post-Diploma Therapeutic Recreation program for completion of their Bachelor of Therapeutic Recreation degree.

University of Regina

Block Transfer of 60 credit units into the Bachelor of Sport and Recreation Stuies - Therapeutic Recreation Major

Additional Information

Related Programs

Application Form

Part-Time Delivery

In order to graduate and receive a credential for this program, part-time students must apply to the program and be admitted before taking the clinicals or practicums.

View the program page for a complete list of courses and additional information.

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