Recreational Therapy Program

Recreational Therapy, also known as Therapeutic Recreation, is a profession that contributes to the broad spectrum of health care through treatment, education and the provision of adapted recreational opportunities.

These areas are instrumental to improving and maintaining physical, cognitive, emotional, and social functioning, preventing secondary health conditions, as well as enhancing independent living skills and overall quality of life.

These tracks are no longer accepting new students. Prospective students should refer to the BS in Rehabilitation and Recreational Therapy.

The goal of our program is “to prepare competent entry-level recreational therapists in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills) and affective (behavior) learning domains.” Both programs are also offered in an online format. Visit FIU Online to learn more.

Students in the Recreational Therapy Program have the option of pursuing one of two tracks. For more information about degree options, consult the program flowchart or screen reader-friendly flowchart.

Tracks

These tracks are no longer accepting new students. Prospective students should refer to the BS in Rehabilitation and Recreational Therapy.

Pre-Recreational Therapy/Adaptive Recreation

To pursue a career in Recreational Therapy, there are several different academic tracks that students can choose from to further customize their education. Regardless of what program track students choose, everyone must begin in the Pre-Recreational Therapy/Adaptive Recreation track.

Courses

Combined BS/MS in Recreational Therapy Pathway

This pathway prepares students to be eligible for certification as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, work as a recreational therapist after the bachelor's degree and also be able to complete a master's degree online in one year in continuation after the BS. Having a master's degree in the field will allow students to be more competitive for RT jobs and likely become an administrator or manager in the future. Consult the Undergraduate Catalog for requirements.

Courses

Admissions
These tracks are no longer accepting new students. Prospective students should refer to the BS in Rehabilitation and Recreational Therapy.
- Freshman Applicant criteria - for students entering FIU as a freshman or transfer student with fewer than 60 credits
- Transfer Applicant criteria - for transfer students entering FIU with 60 or more transfer credits
- Consult the Undergraduate Catalog for additional admission requirements.
Additional Requirements:
Pre-Recreational Therapy Track Prerequisites:
- DEP 2000 Human Growth and Development
- ZOO3731/L Human Anatomy OR PET 3325c Anatomy for Exercise and Sport Sciences
- HSC 3549 OR PCB2099 OR APK3110 Physiology
Combined BS/MS in Recreational Therapy (4+1 program):
- Current enrollment in the Bachelor’s degree program in Recreation and Sports Management, Pre-Recreational Therapy/Adaptive Recreation Track
- Completed 75-90 credits of coursework in Pre-Recreational Therapy
- Completed LEI 3703 with a grade of "C" or higher
Program & Resources
Related Graduate Programs
MS in Recreation and Sport Management

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College to Career

Pre-Recreational Therapy/Adaptive Recreation: Inclusive recreation services, adaptive sports services, activities assistant in long-term care, adult day training services
Recreational Therapy: Assisted living facilities, adapted sports programs, schools, veterans’ services, private practice

Program Contact

Tania Santiago Perez
Assistant Teaching Professor
305-348-3220
tsantiag@fiu.edu
ZEB 336A

Contact Us

Department of Counseling, Recreation and School Psychology
11200 SW 8th Street, ZEB 310
Miami, FL 33199
Tel: 305-348-9905

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