Current Students
Programmatic Goals
Grand Valley's Master of Science in Recreational Therapy (MSRT) program is designed to enhance the skills of recreational therapists to meet the increasingly complex needs of their clients. The program offers two degree options: a combined bachelor's and master's degree, and a one-year master's degree for those who are already Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRS).
The program covers a range of advanced topics to prepare students for evidence-based practice in recreational therapy. Coursework includes subjects such as:
- Grant Writing.
- Research.
- Consulting.
- Documentation.
- Advanced practice in Recreational Therapy.
Students will also engage in observations and service learning within various healthcare settings, participate in problem-based learning, and collaborate on projects to develop teamwork and interpersonal skills.
As the only recreational therapy master's program in Michigan and the first advanced-practice program in the U.S. within a college of health professions, it is designed to address the growing need for research and evidence-based practice in the field. The curriculum is nationally recognized and provides diverse employment opportunities after graduation. Graduates of the program are equipped to help individuals with disabilities achieve greater independence and a higher quality of life through innovative and transformative applications of recreation and leisure.
Career Options
Recreational therapists use a variety of modalities, including arts and crafts, to help maintain or improve a patient’s physical, social, and emotional well-being.
The median salary for a recreational therapists is $47,710 per year or $22.94 per hour (2020), depending on where you are located in the country and scope of the position. For more information visit, Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Certifications
A Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) is the qualified provider of recreational therapy. Individuals seeking certification apply to National Council on Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) and must meet established standards that include education, experience, and continuing professional development. The Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) credential is granted by NCTRC after the specific educational and experiential qualifications are met, eligibility to take the exam is established, and testing is successfully completed.
Individuals who have been involved in a criminal proceeding or charged with or convicted of a crime may not be eligible for national certification by the NCTRC. Students are strongly advised to work with the NCTRC for pre-application review of eligibility for certification from their website or call 845-639-1439 for more information.
