Recreation Therapy (AAS)
A.A.S. Degree—63 credit hours
Curriculum Code 1259
This program prepares students for a professional career in recreation therapy. Recreation Therapy professionals help people in community and clinical settings. Recreation therapists plan, and implement therapeutic-based treatment programs for people with disabilities, injuries, or illnesses. These therapists use a variety of modalities including arts and crafts, drama, music, dance, sports, aquatics and community outings to help maintain or improve a person's physical, social, cognitive, spiritual and emotional well-being. Graduates are eligible for employment in physical rehabilitation centers, medical rehabilitation centers, hospitals, long-term care, skilled care, adult day care, alcohol and drug treatment centers, special recreation associations, and mental health agencies. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics employment of recreational therapists is projected to grow 12 percent from 2014 to 2024, faster than the average of all occupations. As the large babyboom generation ages, they will need recreational therapists to help treat age-related injuries and illnesses and to help them maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. Hospitals will provide a large number of recreation therapy jobs, with additional jobs provided by long-term rehabilitation and psychiatric hospitals. Continued growth is expected in community residential facilities, park districts and day care programs for people with disabilities.