Deliver Client-Centered Care in Therapeutic Recreation Settings

NorQuest College’s Therapeutic Recreation diploma program prepares you to enhance the wellness and quality of life for clients through recreational and leisure activities. This two-year program is ideal for individuals looking to work in a variety of therapeutic recreation settings and help clients maintain optimal health and well-being.

What to Expect from the Program

This program combines classroom learning with hands-on experience to equip you with the knowledge and skills to use recreation and leisure to support individuals across different age groups and abilities. Upon completion, you will be prepared to:

• Work with clients of all ages and abilities, improving their quality of life

• Provide care in a range of health care settings

• Collaborate as part of a multidisciplinary health care team

• Demonstrate leadership, professionalism, and clinical reasoning skills

Delivery Options:

• In-person: Complete all your classes and labs on campus as a full-time student in two years. Available for students who start in the fall.

• Online: Flexible learning option with online courses to accommodate your schedule.

• Blended learning: Combine online and in-person instruction for maximum flexibility.

Graduate with Real-World Experience

The program includes two practicums, giving you 480 hours of hands-on work experience. During these practicums, you will have the opportunity to:

• Practice the skills you’ve learned in the classroom and labs in real-world situations

• Build confidence and problem-solving skills

• Work with a multidisciplinary team of health professionals

This experience is invaluable and can be included on your resume, boosting your employability in the therapeutic recreation field.

Additional Program Information

Alberta Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA) Membership

This program meets the requirements for supporting membership with the Alberta Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA). If you wish to pursue professional membership with ATRA, you’ll need to have a degree in therapeutic recreation. Graduates of this program are eligible for this membership.

For further information, therapeutic recreation professionals can take additional courses through Open Studies to meet ATRA’s standards. If interested, you can reach out to ATRA or the program chair for more details.

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Career Opportunities

As a Therapeutic Recreation professional, you can work in various healthcare settings, such as:

• Hospitals

• Long-term care facilities

• Rehabilitation centers

• Community organizations

• And more!

You’ll play a critical role in improving the quality of life for individuals through recreation, leisure, and play.