COURSE CURRICULUM

Confederation College’s two-year Recreation Therapy program provides students with the knowledge and hands-on experience necessary to support individuals with physical, cognitive, emotional, or social limitations through therapeutic recreation. In the first semester, students build foundational skills through courses such as College Writing, Developmental Psychology, Foundations of Therapeutic Recreation, Interpersonal & Group Effectiveness, Introduction to Therapeutic Recreation Processes, and explore the life cycle and leisure options. The second semester deepens their understanding with courses in Communications for Community Services, Physical Activity Leadership, Administrative Practices, Community Integration, and working with diverse populations. Students also prepare for their first field experience through the TR Placement Preparation course. The third semester continues with Therapeutic Recreation Processes, Facilitative Techniques, Trends in Therapeutic Recreation, and Leisure Education, alongside an 80-hour field placement, allowing students to apply theory in real-world settings. The final semester features a comprehensive 350-hour Field Placement and Seminar, paired with a reflective course, TR Field Placement Reflection, where students analyze and build on their practical learning. Throughout the program, students develop strong communication, planning, leadership, and assessment skills while working with a variety of populations. Elective options and general education courses allow students to further tailor their studies. With a total of 450 field placement hours, students graduate career-ready for roles in healthcare facilities, long-term care, rehabilitation, and community organizations. The program also supports further academic progression through articulation agreements with Lakehead University. Students are eligible for free memberships with Therapeutic Recreation Ontario (TRO) and Parks and Recreation Ontario (PRO), and may pursue DementiAbility Methods certification.