Diploma in Recreation Therapy

At the core, Recreation Therapists use leisure as a tool to help people of all ability levels make the most of their lives – physically, mentally, emotionally and socially. It is a healthcare field that enriches lives. Recreation Therapists work in a variety of clinical & community settings and work with people across the lifespan. At Mohawk, we are committed to providing the best experiential learning through the integration of theory and practice. Our commitment to experiential learning is supported by faculty who understand its value. Students gain 500 hours of practical experience in the field through multiple practicum experiences with over 400 agencies in our database. We offer two unique outdoor RT course experiences (overnight at camp) which has been shown to engage students, increase sense of belonging among peers and faculty, and contribute towards student success. Students say it is one of the most memorable parts of the program! We offer over 6 certifications and workshop trainings to set students apart on their job applications. Classroom learning is enhanced with our own experiential learning lab as well as the use of a Multisensory environment lab space. Mohawk College’s Therapeutic Recreation curriculum has been successfully reviewed and determined to be in alignment with the Therapeutic Recreation Ontario (TRO), and Essential Competency Framework (ECF).  As a result, graduates of this program (283, 353) are eligible to apply for the Registration designation with the Therapeutic Recreation Ontario (TRO) upon graduation. As a student in the program, you will receive a student membership with Therapeutic Recreation Ontario (TRO). You'll learn Theoretical foundation and practical skills to plan, implement and evaluate therapeutic recreation services for individuals at all stages in life who experience barriers to healthy leisure. How to provide person centred care, empower individuals to give as much choice as possible back to the participant. Assess leisure interests to create meaningful goals and specific outcomes for clients to achieve through therapeutic recreation interventions. Facilitate recreation therapy interventions such as; music, horticulture, reminiscence, adventure, and animal therapies, adaptive sports, discussion groups, exercise programs, journaling, intergenerational programming. Develop leadership skills through individual and group presentations which are a core competency in the program.