Program Information

The therapeutic recreation is a major that focuses on the philosophy that recreation is essential to people’s overall development.

Following the guidelines set by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification, students work in settings serving people with physical, emotional, psychiatric, and developmental disabilities. Students also work with older adults, people with chronic illness, people with substance abuse problems, and individuals in correctional institutions.

Graduates are able to help people develop and maintain their health and well-being through therapy, leisure education, and recreation activities to promote a quality leisure lifestyle. Completing the option will prepare students for certification as a therapeutic recreation specialist.

Students in therapeutic recreation take courses in leadership, program planning, processes in therapeutic recreation, and introductory management in TR settings. They also take courses in psychology of disability and illness and programming for persons with disabilities.
 

Degree Information

Degree: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) with a major in Therapeutic Recreation

(120 credit hours) Requirements are subject to change

Contact Information

For more information about the Therapeutic Recreation major, contact Dr. Kevin McAllister, chairperson of the Sport Management and Recreation Department, at (413) 748-3476 or the Admissions Office at (800) 343-1257.

Curricular Requirements

I. Core Curriculum (40 credits)

This Core Curriculum is faithful to the Springfield College mission and further strengthens the Humanics philosophy of educating students in spirit, mind, and body. It is a cornerstone of a Springfield College education. Regardless of one’s major, it provides a strong, developmental, and holistic foundation for leaders in service to humanity. Upon completion, all graduates will be prepared to learn, lead, and serve in diverse, multicultural, and global contexts as well as in any career path they may choose. They will have the knowledge, habits of the mind, skills, and abilities to face unexpected situations and challenges, the values and attitudes for self-motivation and a vision of service that stems from hope, optimism and making a difference, as well as the self-determination to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.

View the Core Curriculum Requirements (40 credits)  section for a complete list of the domains and courses therein.

II. Major Requirements

III. Electives

To complete a minimum of 120 credits

Note:

For students planning to enter the graduate progrm in Therapeutic Recreation Managament upon completion of their undergraduate program, it is suggested that they enroll in SMRT 642  and SMRT 643   during the studnet’s 4th year in the undergraduate program.