Student Experience
What to Expect
Algonquin College is proud to provide a diverse and dynamic student experience. Check out the highlights below to get a sense of what to expect as a student in the Therapeutic Recreation program.
- Course delivery in this program is purposefully designed to be student-centric and flexible. All courses are delivered using the “Flexible Synchronous” method where students receive a timetable and can choose to attend any of their classes either “in-person” on campus or using web conferencing.
- Smaller class sizes to support personalized learning and stronger peer connections
- Various guest speakers to provide industry based insight and hands-on learning experiences through practical experience and community placements
- Graduates are eligible to become registered members of TRO and meet education and experience requirements for registration via Pathway A
- Graduates may apply to become a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) using one of two specific pathways (equivalency path A or B)
Success Stories and Testimonials
“I chose this program with the goal of helping children in palliative care and chronic pain/illness.
As an Alumni of Recreation and Leisure Services, I was interested in continuing my education with therapeutic recreation in hopes to enhance the lives of others through recreation and leisure programs. Ultimately, I chose this program to not only better the lives of my future clients but to also provide a great sense of meaning and purpose in my own life.
I am beyond impressed with the blended delivery aspect of this program. The accommodation to be able to attend class from home has been a great factor to my success in this program. The professors have been accommodating and respectful of our choice to work from home and above all have made us feel welcomed and included in the class.
Lastly, I am impressed with the positivity and encouragement the professors offer to ensure we stay guided on the right path as we go into our placements. The amount of support and acknowledgement is admirable and I cannot thank them enough.
I have enjoyed the assignments offered throughout the program. It is a great mix of both individual and teamwork assignments which offer great insight to our future careers.”
– Angel, Student, 2025
“When I was doing my first program at another college, I heard about Therapeutic Recreation during my volunteer work for January intake students. It ignited my curiosity to learn what it was about, and when I learned more, I wanted to explore it further. My aunt in Ottawa suggested Algonquin College for further studies, so I applied here. This program aligns with the health care field I want to pursue as I have background in Physiotherapy and Exercise Physiology.
I chose this program because it aligns with the healthcare field I want to pursue. With my background in Physiotherapy and Exercise Physiology, I have a strong foundation in understanding movement, rehabilitation, and overall well-being. This program allows me to expand my knowledge by focusing on the therapeutic benefits of recreation, which complements my existing expertise. It also provides me with the opportunity to work with diverse populations, helping individuals improve their quality of life through meaningful and engaging activities.”
– Student, 2025
“With a diploma in Recreation and Leisure Services, and a certificate in Pre-Health Sciences, I was looking for a program that could combine my two pieces of education. I knew I wanted to work in healthcare, and I had plenty of experience in the field of Recreation and Leisure. When I came across Therapeutic Recreation, I realized the program was a perfect way to advance my knowledge and skills as a Recreation professional, while also making an entry into the field of healthcare; all for the benefit of helping others live their best life.
The blended delivery format of the program was the biggest highlight for me. Being a post-graduate student, I still had to work full-time while going to school. To manage all aspects of the life of a full-time student/full-time employee is overwhelming and having the choice to attend classes in person or online was a game changer.”
– Jayme, Graduate, 2023, Recreation Programs Manager, Extendicare Canada
“I choose this program program as I was looking to further my education in the health & wellness sector after completing my undergrad degree. The instructors impressed me the most about this program. They were incredible in guiding me through the classes and ultimately helping me find my ideal career.
The program itself was my highlight from Algonquin College. It was a great program that really prepared me for the workforce.
In my program we had a 14 week placement, and it was a great experience for me. Having 14 weeks to get to know clients and learn the field of work was incredibly beneficial. I was able to create working relationships and secure a career from my placement locations. My placement in the program was with the organizations I work for now. My instructors saw my interests and made this happen for me. I will be forever grateful for their innovation and compassion when it came to me and my learning.
Algonquin College helped me find my dream career. Before starting Therapeutic Recreation I didn’t know where I wanted to go career wise. From the help of the instructors I found an incredible placement (turned into my career) and now I have clear goals and aspirations for my future self.”
– Josie, Graduate, 2023, Recreation Therapist, Abilities Ottawa
“The Therapeutic Recreation program at Algonquin College provided me with great networking opportunities within the Ottawa community. Though COVID-19 was a challenge, the program adapted to accommodate to online learning platforms well. Throughout the program, the teachers were very accommodating and supportive, and always had the student’s success at the forefront of their teaching!”
– Natalie, Graduate, 2020
“I see that my end result has exceeded my expectations. The teachers are the best thing about the program as they treat students in a personalized way. Due to small class sizes, the teachers know each student by name. Very relaxed and calm atmosphere, which made learning fun and relaxed. The program gives you very good opportunities to interact and is so fulfilling. The classes are interactive and encourages varying opinions from students. As well, the placement experience was the perfect way to end the program. I recommend this program to everyone who is looking to work with individuals of all abilities.”
– Sheila, Graduate, 2020 Grad
Work Integrated Learning
The program includes a wide range of placement opportunities in various settings totaling 560 hours.
Industry Connections
Algonquin Professor Tania Silletta receives Minister’s Award
Algonquin College Professor, Tania Silletta, was selected to receive a Minister’s Award of Excellence for her work in the Therapeutic Recreation (TR) graduate certificate program.