BA/BS in Therapeutic Recreation

The Bachelor of Arts in Therapeutic Recreation at the University of Waterloo prepares students to work as recreation therapists, health care providers who address the emotional, physical, and social needs of clients in clinical and long-term care settings. Students learn to develop formal, evidence-based recreation programming and gain hands-on experience through a required 105-hour practicum and a required 560-hour internship. The program is the only one in Ontario to offer multiple co-op terms in this field, and 15 elective courses drawn from disciplines such as social work, psychology, and health let students shape part of their degree. It takes four years to complete as a full-time student in the regular format, or five years with the co-op option; most required courses are delivered in person rather than online. Graduates pursue roles such as recreation therapist, adaptive sports coordinator, long-term care activity manager, community inclusion specialist, mental health recreation worker, and rehabilitation program leader.