Therapeutic Recreation (Diploma)

About this programme

Make a real, positive difference in the lives of people living with disabilities, social isolation, aging and other challenges with a career in recreation therapy. As a recreation therapist assistant, you'll develop skills to work with a recreation therapist, planning and implementing recreation and leisure programs. These programs are designed to help children, adolescents, adults and seniors improve their overall health and well-being and live full, independent lives. The two-year Therapeutic Recreation Diploma prepares you to plan, implement and evaluate a wide range of programs for people with barriers to participation in leisure activities. Such programs could include individual or group fitness, cognitive activities, creative arts, gardening, cooking, adapted sports, nature and outdoor activities. You will have the opportunity to apply classroom theory in real-life situations through two semesters of practicum work in health-care or social service settings. The Therapeutic Recreation Diploma now offers both online and in-person studies. The online diploma program allows you to study and complete the diploma from the comfort of your own home and get practical experience within your own community. You also have the option to choose the courseload that works for you, allowing you to learn at your own pace. From 2025 to 2035, there will be more than 5,500 job openings for recreation program leaders and related positions in B.C. Surveys show that 85 percent of our Therapeutic Recreation diploma graduates are working in the field after graduation. (Source: B.C. Student