About this Program

The Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences degree with a major in Recreational Therapy prepares students for careers as recreational therapists in health and human service settings such as hospitals, geriatric care facilities, and community-based organizations. The degree meets the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification’s (NCTRC) professional eligibility requirements to become a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS).

Program Highlights

  • Students apply course concepts and gain practical skills through their participation in the various structured hands-on and service learning opportunities embedded within the Recreational Therapy curriculum. Students engage with youth in the Mighty Monarchs wheelchair sports program, facilitate a senior wellness program in a local geriatric care facility, assist with Special Olympics, and complete a senior internship experience under the supervision of a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist.

AT A GLANCE
Degree Level
Undergraduate
Degree Earned
Bachelor of Science in Health Science
Concentration
Recreational Therapy
Delivery Modes
On-Campus

Careers

Check out these ideas from ODU's Center for Career & Leadership Development and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.

Requirements

What are the requirements to apply for Recreational Therapy at ODU?
Students entering the Bachelor of Science in Health Science program in Recreational Therapy should meet the minimum university admission requirements Undergraduate Admission.

Prerequisite Requirements:

  • ENGL 110C (minimum grade of C)

  • BIOL 240 or 250

  • BIOL 241 or 251

  • PSYC 203S, and RT 261 (minimum grade of C-)

  • Complete a background check in RT 261 – Foundations of Recreational Therapy to ensure eligibility for service-learning experiences with youth.

Transfer

At ODU, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful...

Cost

Estimated rates for the 2024-25 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.

Active Duty Military Rate
Cost Per-Credit $250
Virginia Resident
Cost Per-Credit $408
Technology Delivered Courses Outside Virginia and/or the United States
Cost Per-Credit $439
Non-Resident
Cost Per-Credit $1,109

Ways to Save

Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial Aid.

Contact

Master Lecturer

3054 HEALTH SCIENCES BLDG
NORFOLK, 23529