Promote Healing. Enhance Well-Being. Lead the Future of Therapeutic Recreation.
 
Unlock your potential with our Master of Science in Recreation and Leisure Studies with a Concentration in Recreation Therapy—a clinically grounded, person-centered graduate program designed for individuals passionate about using recreation as a tool for healing and empowerment. This program prepares you to become a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS), equipped to support individuals with physical, emotional, cognitive, and social challenges through evidence-based recreational interventions.  Specialize in Recreation Therapy and become a leader in healthcare and human services. With a strong foundation in assessment, treatment planning, and therapeutic modalities, you’ll be prepared to work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, long-term care facilities, and community-based programs.

Why Choose the Recreation Therapy Concentration?

Career Prospects
 
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of recreational therapists is projected to grow 4% from 2023 to 2033, about as fast as the average for all occupations [1]. This growth reflects a steady demand for professionals who can support recovery, independence, and quality of life through therapeutic recreation.

Competitive Salaries

Recreational therapists earned a median annual wage of $60,280 in May 2024 [1]. Those with advanced degrees and certifications often qualify for leadership roles in clinical and administrative settings, with opportunities for higher earnings and specialization.

Clinical and Experiential Curriculum

Our program emphasizes hands-on learning through clinical placements, service-learning, and applied research. You’ll gain experience in designing and delivering individualized treatment plans that use recreation to improve physical, emotional, and social functioning.

Certification Preparation
 
The curriculum is aligned with the academic and clinical requirements for eligibility to sit for the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) exam, leading to the CTRS credential.

Interdisciplinary and Inclusive
 
You’ll collaborate with professionals in occupational therapy, psychology, nursing, and social work—preparing you to work on interdisciplinary teams and serve diverse populations across the lifespan.

Diverse Career Opportunities

Graduates can pursue roles such as:

• Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) 
• Rehabilitation Program Coordinator 
• Behavioral Health Recreation Therapist 
• Pediatric or Geriatric Recreation Therapist 
• Adaptive Sports and Recreation Specialist 
• Long-Term Care Activity Director 
• Community-Based Recreation Therapist 
• Inclusive Recreation Program Manager 
• Clinical Supervisor in Recreation Therapy 

Join a community of therapeutic recreation professionals dedicated to promoting health, independence, and joy through purposeful play and engagement. Your journey to becoming a leader in recreation therapy starts here.
[1]: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Recreational Therapists
 

Next Steps
     

     
Contact Us
     
RecreationAndLeisureGrad@SouthernCT.edu

College of Health and Human Services

Application Requirements

Application Submission
Application Fee ($50)
Official Transcripts

Capstone Requirement (Choose One)

Thesis
Special Project
Comprehensive Examination

Cost of Program

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Virtual Tour

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Join us and see firsthand why our institution is the perfect place to start your graduate journey. Whether you're interested in cutting-edge research or a supportive and inclusive community, our virtual tour has it all.