Career Paths

Supervise a community recreation center, provide therapeutic recreation in a hospital, organize youth activities or coordinate recreation programs on a military base.

A major in recreation and recreation with a therapeutic recreation emphasis leads to employment in health and human service agencies in the public, private, and non-profit sector with individuals of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Starting salaries are comparable to those of teachers yet vary with the nature of the setting. The major is designed to assist the student in acquiring practical skills and employment connections and networks. Students complete 50 clock hours of recreation experience in the field prior to their junior level practicum and 500 clock hours of recreation experience in the field prior to their senior level internship. Additionally, students complete a 90-hour practicum and a 480-hour internship at professional sites under the direction of full-time recreation and therapeutic recreation professionals. Networking with professionals is a requirement of a senior level class on professional participation as well as the opportunities that occur during the practicum and internships. Of the students who have completed their internships, the employment rate is 75% (full and part-time offerings). Responses to a career services survey noted a 100% employment rate.

Hands-on career experiences form an integral part of your experience. Through practicum and internship opportunities with a variety of agencies, including public parks, non-profit organizations like YMCA and therapeutic recreation settings, you'll fine tune your area of interest, put classroom theory into practice and gain valuable skills that will help you after graduation. In recreation, you'll be able to tailor your program to emphasize your special interests as you plan your future. You are likely to be hired as an activity director, aquatics specialist, recreation director or recreation therapist. You'll find positions at tourist attractions, city recreation departments and retirement communities.

• Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Career Guide