Given an aging population and increased interest in online learning, which has accelerated since the COVID-19 pandemic, the University of Lethbridge is doubling the number of online seats in its Bachelor of Therapeutic Recreation program.
Therapeutic Recreation faculty members include Zac Crouse, Dr. Sienna Caspar and Devan McNeill.
"We are doubling the number of seats to 64 to keep up with demand," says Devan McNeill, an instructor in the program. "We've had a waitlist for a few years as demand for our program has grown across Canada. We take students from British Columbia to Newfoundland."
The Faculty of Health Sciences first offered the online program in 2015. It has proven to be a popular choice for students, as the University typically receives four times more applications than seats available. Training more therapeutic recreation professionals now will help fill the demand for such workers in the years ahead as the population ages.
"All indicators see growth in the profession, especially as the baby boomer generation ages," says McNeill. "This will increase the need for recreation therapy in long-term care facilities, in hospital and clinical settings, and in community care. Our program is profession-based, similar to nursing, and our graduates can apply to recreation therapist positions across Canada."
The online program offers students increased flexibility in how they complete the program. They can study full- or part-time, fit classes into their schedule and remain in their home communities, which helps reduce costs.
The additional online spaces will be available beginning in Fall 2023. Visit the program website for more information.
