Recreational Therapy Pre-occupational Therapy Slippery Rock University

Overview

The Recreational Therapy Pre-occupational Therapy programme at Slippery Rock University provides a comprehensive educational pathway for students aiming to enter the field of rehabilitative medicine. This curriculum is specifically designed to integrate essential prerequisite coursework for doctoral studies while developing core competencies in therapeutic recreation.

Students engage in a rigorous academic environment that emphasises methodological proficiency in healthcare assessment, planning, and implementation. The programme focuses on sharpening professional decision-making and critical thinking skills through direct interaction with diverse clinical populations, including children and adults with chronic conditions.

Why Recreational Therapy Pre-occupational Therapy at Slippery Rock University?

Slippery Rock University holds the distinction of being one of the first institutions in the country to achieve accreditation from the Commission on the Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. This ensures the curriculum meets the highest industry standards endorsed by the American Therapeutic Recreation Association.

The faculty consists of nationally certified specialists with extensive experience in physical medicine, behavioural health, and gerontology. These experts provide personalised mentorship, guiding students through their educational journey and offering advice on practical experience opportunities and future career specialisations.

The institution offers unique facilities such as the award-winning Storm Harbor Equestrian Center for equine-assisted therapy. Furthermore, students benefit from a 14-week internship requirement, providing vital real-world exposure and professional networking opportunities within the healthcare sector.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 15988 per year
• National fee: USD 15988 per year
• Local fee: USD 7994 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to build foundational knowledge in healthcare documentation and intervention strategies. Modules may include:

• Recreational Therapy
• Occupational Therapy
• Animal Assisted Intervention
• Adventure Fitness
• Aquatics
• Gerontology
• Psychology
• Adapted Physical Activity
• Exceptionalities
• Criminology
• Nonprofit Leadership

Careers with Recreational Therapy Pre-occupational Therapy

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in clinical and community settings, often progressing to become Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists. Many students use this degree as a direct bridge to Doctor of Occupational Therapy programmes or other advanced graduate studies.

Alumni have secured positions at prestigious institutions such as the National Institutes of Health, the VA Healthcare System, and various children's hospitals. Common career paths include roles as rehabilitation therapists, community life directors, brain injury specialists, and creative arts therapists.

Industries employing graduates encompass physical medicine, mental health facilities, senior living communities, and paediatric rehabilitation centres. The programme's strong emphasis on clinical readiness ensures that students are competitive candidates for positions in both public and private healthcare sectors.