Skip to main content
  • Admissions
  • Academics
  • Research
  • Illinois State University Home
  • Student Life
  • Athletics
  • About
Major

Recreation and Sport Management - Therapeutic Recreation

  1. Home
  2. Academics
  3. Majors
  4. Recreation and Sport Management - Therapeutic Recreation

Overview

Therapeutic recreation is a human service profession. Professionals typically work in a community or clinical setting. Clients include people who have a disability, injury, illness or other health condition. Using play and other activities, therapists create a healthy physical and social environment.

Students in this major use theory in the classroom and the real world by completing two internships. The major also offers opportunities to attend conferences, participate in clubs, and study abroad. These activities help students develop a professional network.

Faculty in therapeutic recreation have awards for teaching, research, and service. They also conduct and publish research as well as write industry-leading textbooks.

  • Meet Our Faculty
  • Careers
  • Course Requirements (Catalog)
  • Sample Plans of Study

Point of Pride

The Recreation and Sport Management program has been nationally accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Parks, Recreation, Tourism, and Related Professions for more than 30 years.

Why study Recreation and Sport Management - Therapeutic Recreation?

Therapeutic recreation has an important role in health. Participating in recreation-based treatment programs helps people improve and maintain their health. Therapists plan and host activities that include arts and crafts, fine arts, sports and games, aquatics, and community outings.

More recreational therapists will be needed as the baby-boom generation ages. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 12 percent growth from 2014 to 2024 for the profession. This is faster than the average for all occupations.

The Illinois State Therapeutic Recreation program is accredited by the Council on Accreditation for Parks, Recreation, Tourism, and Related Professions.

Schedule a Visit

Come see campus and meet with campus representatives either in person or virtually. Optional chances to meet with academic department, honors, and financial aid.

  • Explore Campus Visit Options
  • Explore Virtual Visit Options

How to Apply

Applying to Illinois State

Applying by our priority deadline is encouraged for best consideration for your academic program and for scholarships. Start your application today!

  • Freshmen: Apply Now
  • Transfer Students
  • Current Students

I Want to Learn More

Request Information Form

Loading form...

Contact Information

  • School of Kinesiology and Recreation
  • (309) 438-8661
  • McCormick Hall 250
  • College of Applied Science and Technology

Commonly Used Links

Illinois State

  • Milner Library
  • Technology Support Center
  • Maps and Directions
  • Search/A-Z
  • Academic Calendar
  • Safety and Security
  • Download ISU Mobile Apps

Students

  • My.IllinoisState.edu
  • Student Jobs
  • Catalog
  • Canvas
  • Undocumented Students, DACA, or Dreamers
  • Veterans and Military Services

Alumni

  • Alumni Association
  • Redbird Gear
  • Events
  • Magazine
  • Traditions

Faculty and Staff

  • Work at Illinois State
  • iPeople
  • Email and Office 365
  • Center for Integrated Professional Development
  • Shared Governance and Administration

© 2025 Illinois State University, Normal, IL USA | Contact Us

Privacy Statement | Cookie Statement | Identity Standards | Appropriate Use Policy | IBHE Online Complaint System | ISU Complaint Resolution | Accessibility | CARES Act Reporting

  • I. S. U. Facebook
  • I. S. U. Twitter
  • I. S. U. Instagram
  • I. S. U. Youtube
  • I. S. U. LinkedIn
  • I. S. U. TikTok
Closing menu Closing Menu
  • Close Menu
  • My
  • Contact
  • A to Z
  • Admissions
  • Academics
  • Research
  • Student Life
  • Athletics
  • About Us
  • Apply
  • Visit

Getting Started

  • Incoming Freshman
  • Transfer Students
  • Graduate Students
  • International Students
  • Out of State Students
  • Military Veterans
  • Returning to ISU
  • Homeschooled Students

Non-traditional

  • En EspaƱol
  • Undocumented Students
  • Visiting Students
  • Second Bachelor's Degree
  • Parents and Families
  • Academics Overview
  • Academic Support
  • Majors
  • Minors
  • Graduate Programs
  • Pre-Professional
  • Interdisciplinary Studies
  • Research Overview
  • Milner Library
  • Redbird Scholar
  • Student Life Overview
  • Housing
  • Dining
  • Student Organizations
  • Athletics Overview
  • GoRedbirds.com
  • About Us
  • Contact us
  • Administration
  • Our Community
  • Metrics of Excellence
  • Diversity and Inclusion
  • Traditions
  • Facility and Space Use
  • Learn How to Apply
  • What You Need Before You Apply
  • Deadlines
  • Fee and Waiver
  • Check Your Application Status
  • Disciplinary and Criminal Activity Disclosures
  • International Application Information
  • Schedule a Visit
  • Department Meetings
  • Driving Directions
  • Open House
  • Group Visits

University Resources

  • My Illinois State
  • Map
  • News
  • Events
  • Giving
Closing menu Closing Menu