Program Overview

University of Toledo Recreational Therapy Program

The University of Toledo offers the only Recreational Therapy program in Ohio. This bachelor's degree program emphasizes hands-on education and has a proven record of success.

Program Overview

The program explores the therapeutic value of recreation and leisure interventions to assist individuals with disabilities and chronic conditions. Students learn various therapeutic techniques and modalities, such as therapeutic arts, assistive technology, fitness, and horticulture, to help individuals gain functional skills, rehabilitate, and move toward independence.

Curriculum

The Recreational Therapy program is a four-year program. In the first two years, students complete prerequisites and introductory recreation therapy courses. In the sophomore year, students apply for admittance into the two-year "professional sequence" of the program. Admission is competitive. In this portion of the program, students complete upper-level recreation therapy classes and gain professional clinical experience through internships.

Clinical Experiences

All Recreational Therapy courses are online, from introductory courses to upper-level classes. Clinical experiences are available all over the country for students who live outside of Toledo and choose to live at home their last two years. Students can earn a bachelor's degree in Recreational Therapy entirely online, starting their freshman year.

Top Reasons to Study Recreational Therapy

• Unique undergraduate experiences, with 760 hours of professional experience, including four 50-hour fieldwork rotations with various populations.
• High job placement rate, with some years reaching 98%.
• Above-average pass rate for the Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists exam.
• Flexible, online curriculum in the final two years.
• Opportunities to connect with faculty and classmates through optional informational weekends, virtual orientation, and Meet Up social events.
• Professional development through panel discussions, conferences, and networking with potential internship employers.

Career Opportunities

Graduates find rewarding opportunities in the growing field of home healthcare and in areas such as:

• Centers for developmental disabilities
• Community recreation/camps for individuals with disabilities
• Geriatric services
• Pediatric services
• Physical rehabilitation
• Psychiatric rehabilitation

Many University of Toledo students also go on to graduate school, having been admitted to institutions such as:

• Chicago State University
• Clemson University
• Cleveland State University
• George Washington University
• Indiana University
• The Ohio State University
• The University of Toledo
• University of Maryland School of Medicine
• University of North Carolina
• University of Wisconsin

Hands-on Learning Opportunities

The University of Toledo offers various hands-on learning opportunities, including:

• Internships, which provide practical experience, help build resumes, refine skills, and cultivate contacts.
• Research opportunities, where students can work with faculty as early as their freshman year.
• Study Abroad programs, which allow students to travel, experience new cultures, and meet new people while earning college credit.
• On-campus and part-time jobs, which help students learn skills, build their resumes, and earn money.
• Student organizations, which provide opportunities to make friends, build resumes, network, serve the community, and have fun.

Tuition and Scholarships

Most new students do not pay full price, with 94% of new University of Toledo students receiving scholarships or other state and federal aid. The average cost for full-time students varies by college, program, and other options.

Honors College

The Jesup Scott Honors College at the University of Toledo offers its best and brightest students the resources and opportunities needed to unlock their fullest potential. Honors students take unique classes, complete an Honors thesis or capstone project, and earn the Honors medallion at graduation. They also have access to exclusive housing, special academic, cultural, and professional development opportunities, and can choose to participate in the Honors Academic Village or President's Hall.