Program Overview

Qualified undergraduates may be admitted to the program and obtain both the B.S. and M.S. in recreational therapy within the accelerated time frame.

Students interested in the combined degree program will follow the undergraduate curriculum for recreational therapy, and will apply to the graduate program during their first year of undergraduate recreational therapy coursework.

Application requirements include:

• Demonstrate the potential to succeed in the combined program based on a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher.
• Earn a grade of C or higher (or CR or X) in each undergraduate non-recreational therapy course attempted.
• Earn a B- or higher in recreational therapy courses.
• Provide a letter of intent to pursue the combined degree.
• Have the recommendation of GVSU recreational therapy faculty members based on course performance.

Why Pursue a Combined Degree at Grand Valley?

• This program is the only recreational therapy master's program in Michigan, and the first in the United States designed as an advanced-practice program.
• GVSU's recreational therapy program is designed to meet the increasingly complex needs for more research and evidence-based practice to support the work of clinicians and advance recognition of the field.
• Nationally recognized curriculum with diverse opportunities for employment after graduation.
• Located in the state-of-the-art Raleigh J. Finkelstein Hall with a one-of-a-kind recreational therapy classroom/lab space including adventure therapy course and adaptive sports court(s), in close proximity to five hospitals, and many research, clinical, and treatment facilities.
• Graduates enter a satisfying helping profession that assists people with disabilities to be more independent and achieve a higher quality of life, changing lives through transformative and innovative application of recreation and leisure.