Recreational Therapy Florida International University (FIU)

Overview

The B.Sc. in Recreational Therapy at Florida International University (FIU) provides a robust academic foundation for students dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of others through purposeful activity. This programme is specifically structured to prepare undergraduates for immediate entry into the healthcare workforce or for advanced graduate study in various clinical disciplines.

Students can choose between two distinct pathways: the Recreational Therapy Track and the Rehabilitation Track. Both options focus on developing competent professionals who can operate effectively across cognitive, psychomotor, and affective domains. The curriculum is designed to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare sector, ensuring graduates are equipped with the practical skills required for modern clinical environments.

Why Recreational Therapy at Florida International University (FIU)?

Florida International University (FIU) offers a unique advantage for students in this field, particularly given its location in Florida, which has a high demand for therapists due to its demographic profile. The university provides state-of-the-art facilities, including the Simulation Teaching And Research (STAR) Center, which incorporates advanced technology into the clinical education experience.

The programme maintains strong links with professional bodies, ensuring that the curriculum aligns with the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) standards. Graduates from the specific therapy track meet all educational and professional experience requirements to sit for the national certification exam immediately upon completion of their degree.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 9903 per semester
• National fee: USD 9903 per semester
• Local fee: USD 3084 per semester

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to provide a balance of theoretical knowledge and practical application. Modules may include:

• Human Growth and Development
• Human Anatomy
• Physiology
• Recreational Therapy Facilitation Techniques and Modalities Lab
• Fieldwork in Rehabilitation and Recreational Therapy
• Recreational Therapy Internship
• Abnormal Psychology
• Medical Terminology
• Kinesiology

Careers with Recreational Therapy

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles within the healthcare and community sectors. Those following the therapy track often find employment as Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists in rehabilitation settings, long-term care agencies, and human service organisations. The demand for these roles is projected to grow significantly as the population ages.

For those on the rehabilitation track, career opportunities extend to physical medicine agencies, schools, and behavioural health facilities. Many students also use this degree as a stepping stone to graduate programmes in Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, or Speech-Language Pathology. The broad skill set acquired allows for employment in adapted sports programmes, government health departments, and home health care services.