Recreation Certification and Certificate Program Information
Two types of certificate programs are available. An outdoor recreation certificate program prepares students for positions as activity and program organizers. A therapeutic recreation certificate program teaches students how to help rehabilitate special needs patients through sports and leisure activities. National and state recognized certification exams and credentials are offered for both professions.
Outdoor Recreation Certificate
Outdoor recreation certificate programs emphasize education through sports and recreational activities. The core classes in the program teach theoretical approaches to recreation, as well as the impact recreation has on the environment. In addition to required classes, students can take electives in related sciences, such as geology, weather, astronomy or environmental science. Students may also learn to become instructors in various sports, including rock climbing, kayaking and skiing.
Educational Prerequisites
Admission requirements for recreation certificate programs vary. Some programs may admit students with a high school diploma looking to gain skills in order to secure an entry-level position in recreation. Other institutions may offer certificate programs in conjunction with degree programs. In these cases, applicants must meet the requirements of the degree programs.
Program Coursework
The curriculum in an outdoor recreation certificate program focuses on group management, program planning and general physical fitness. Typical classes include:
- Outdoor recreation principles
- Leadership and safety
- Leisure lifestyle development
- Theories of recreation and play
- Facilitation techniques
- Budgeting and fiscal responsibility
- Volunteer supervision
Salary Info and Career Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov), recreation workers will see a job growth of 15% between 2008 and 2018. Most of the opportunities should be be for part-time, temporary and seasonal workers. Full-time career positions in recreation will see the most competition. Full-time recreation workers earned a median salary of $21,960 per year as of May 2008.
Continuing Education and Professional Certification
One of the leading recreation certification programs is Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP), a credential administered by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). Professionals seeking a recreation certification can prepare for this exam with the help of self-study aids or by enrolling in a training course. Individuals are eligible to take the exam if they have a combination of a bachelor's degree and experience or a high school diploma and 5 years of experience. Individuals who have been certified must take two continuing education credits every two years in order to renew their credentials.
Certificate in Therapeutic Recreation
A certificate program in therapeutic recreation prepares students to work with disabled, injured, ill and elderly patients. The classes are focused on the use of recreation to rehabilitate patients with chronic physical, mental and social conditions. Upon completion of the program and therequired certification, therapeutic recreation specialists, aka recreational therapists, can work in a variety of environments, such as nursing homes, day care centers, rehabilitation centers, correctional facilities and group homes.
Educational Prerequisites
Therapeutic recreation certificate programs are available to students as a supplement to a related field of study. People with bachelor's degrees in recreation who want to become certified therapeutic recreation specialists can also enroll in most programs.
Program Coursework
The curriculum in a therapeutic recreation certificate program integrates the study of physical and mental health issues with classes in recreation and leisure. The following topics are covered in therapeutic recreation coursework.
- Leadership in therapeutic recreation
- Gerontology
- Psychology
- Administration and programming for therapeutic recreation
- Recreational therapy techniques
- Recreation and leisure services
Salary Info and Career Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects that job growth will be 15% for therapeutic recreation specialist positions between 2008 and 2018. Employment opportunities are expected to be strongest with the school-age and elderly populations. The median annual salary for recreational therapists was $38,370 as of May 2008.
Professional Certification and Continuing Education
State and national certification are often required for employment. The National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) exam is available to anyone meeting the eligibility requirements. Successful completion of the exam results in a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist credential. The CTRS must be renewed every five years via continuing education courses and professional work experience.
Recreation Careers
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) offers certification opportunities for Certified Park and Recreation Professionals. For those interested in a career in recreation therapy, the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) offers a national credential required for most positions.
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