Douglas College Canada

Therapeutic Recreation (Diploma)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Undergraduate Diploma
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The Therapeutic Recreation Diploma at Douglas College is designed for individuals passionate about enhancing the lives of those facing physical and mental health challenges through purposeful leisure and recreation. You will gain the skills to help children, adolescents, adults, and seniors improve their overall health and well-being, fostering independence and quality of life. This program is ideal for aspiring recreation therapists looking to make a tangible difference. You will explore foundational concepts in anatomy, physiology, and human development, alongside specialised therapeutic recreation principles and person-centred approaches.

This comprehensive undergraduate diploma is studied on campus full-time over two years, providing you with a practical, hands-on learning experience. You will learn to plan, implement, and evaluate diverse recreation programs, from fitness and cognitive activities to adapted sports and community engagement. The curriculum includes essential courses like Therapeutic Recreation Foundations, Inclusive Leisure Practice, and Professional Skills, culminating in two semesters of vital practicum work in real-world health-care or social service settings. You will graduate prepared for rewarding careers as a recreation therapist, equipped with the practical skills and professional knowledge demanded by the field.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This diploma program provides a comprehensive foundation in therapeutic recreation. Students will explore core concepts such as anatomy and physiology, lifespan development, and principles of health. The curriculum emphasizes professional skills, person-centered approaches, and communication, preparing students for diverse roles in leisure and community recreation settings. Practical application is integrated through various therapeutic recreation practice courses focusing on different populations and conditions.

1 Course Requirements

Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology Compulsory
Understanding Aboriginal Perspective and Experiences Compulsory
Academic Writing Compulsory
Lifespan Human Development Compulsory
Therapeutic Recreation Foundations Compulsory
Leisure & Community Recreation Compulsory
Professional Skills and Person-Centred Approaches in Therapeutic Recreation Compulsory
Recreation Leadership I Compulsory
Principles and Practices of Health Compulsory
Communication Skills for Recreation and Health Professionals Compulsory
TR Process I Introduction to the TR Process Compulsory
Inclusive Leisure Practice Compulsory
Valuing Diversity: Therapeutic Recreation and Mental Health Compulsory
Older Adulthood: Psychosocial Issues and Therapeutic Recreation Compulsory
Physical Fitness: Theory and Application in Therapeutic Recreation Compulsory
Therapeutic Recreation Practice I: Diploma Compulsory
Recreation Leadership II Compulsory
Therapeutic Recreation and Physical and Developmental Disabling Conditions Compulsory
Older Adulthood: Chronic Health Conditions and Therapeutic Recreation Compulsory
Therapeutic Recreation Practice II: Diploma Compulsory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 16,905.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 16,905.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 33,810.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 365.00 - USD 580.00
Food & Groceries USD 5,634.00 - USD 6,068.00
Transport USD 867.00 - USD 1,041.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,734.00 - USD 2,167.00
Estimated Total USD 8,235.00 - USD 9,276.00

Living cost estimates are based on New Westminster Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Adult & Continuing EducationClinical & Medical ServicesCurriculum & Instructional DesignEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEdTech & E-LearningMedical Research & Clinical TrialsMental Health & CounselingPublic Health & EpidemiologySecondary & High School EducationVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

BC Public Service

Fraser Health Authority

Island Health

Provincial Health Services Authority

Vancouver Coast Health

Why Study Therapeutic Recreation (Diploma) at Douglas College

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at Douglas College in Canada

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Therapeutic Recreation (Diploma) at Douglas College

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus and unlimited hours during breaks. On-campus work is also available without a separate permit.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, Recreation Therapist, Activity Coordinator, Program Director, Rehabilitation Assistant.

What will I actually study in this course?

ake a positive difference in the lives of people living with physical and mental health challenges through a career in recreation therapy. Through purposeful leisure and recreation interventions, you can help children, adolescents, adults and seniors improve their overall health and well-being and live full, independent lives. 

A practical program 

The two-year Therapeutic Recreation Diploma prepares you to plan, implement and evaluate a wide range of

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Therapeutic Recreation Diploma program has an intake month in September. Make sure to prepare your application before this date to secure your spot.
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