Recreation Therapy, B.A. Details
Explore More
The priority application deadlines are September 15 for Spring semester admission and February 15 for Fall semester admission.
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications by the priority deadline to ensure full consideration. Historically, applicants were required to complete 50 hours of experience working with individuals with disabilities, disabling conditions, or illnesses to apply to the major. However, starting Spring 2025 and until further notice, this requirement will no longer be in place. Although such experience is no longer mandatory, it is recommended as a way to help applicants make an informed decision about pursuing the major and the profession.
For NC Community College Transfer Students- Degree Requirements and Course Descriptions (UNCW Catalogue)
- Recommended Sequence of Courses
- Recreation Therapy Degree Program Goal
- Student Learning Outcomes
- North Carolina Community Course Equivalents
- Student Handbook (PDF)
- RTH 390 Pre-Internship Manual (PDF)
- Meet the Faculty
Advising
Schedule an appointment with a Student Success advisor.
Watch our Students & Alumni at Work!
- Increasing Fine Motor Skills, Eye-Hand Coordination, and Verbal Commands with Individuals with Autism
- Increasing Strength & Tone for Individuals with Williams Syndrome
- What is a Certified Therapeutic Recreational Specialist (CTRS)?
Recreation Therapy, B.A. + Applied Gerontology, M.S.
The combined Bachelor of Arts degree in Recreation Therapy and Master of Science degree in Applied Gerontology program offers an accelerated path toward a Master of Science degree that prepares graduates to work in healthcare and community-based settings serving older adults. Graduates from this program are also trained to be leaders in the intersections of recreation therapy, gerontology, and wellness.
| Year | UNCW Pass Rate | National Average Pass Rate |
| 2023-2025 | 89.5% | 80.5% |
| 2022 | 92.1% | 84.5% |
| 2021 | 95.2% | 84.5% |
| 2020 | 96% | 85.3% |
| 2019 | 94.3% | 88.9% |
| 2018 | 92% | 86.5% |
| 2017 | 96.6% | 86.8% |
Get Involved
A big part of an well-rounded, successful and fun college experience happens outside the classroom. Participating in student organizations gives you the chance to get to know your classmates, explore new interests and discover who you are.
Assistance Dog Training Minor
- Gain a sense of pride knowing they have trained a dog to help someone who needs assistance.
Community Partnerships
UNCW's programs that lead to professional licensure or certification satisfy the requirements in North Carolina and prepare students to sit for applicable exams. Requirements in other states may differ.
If you are considering one of these programs and intend to seek employment outside North Carolina, please visit UNCW's State Authorization webpage to review whether the program currently meets educational requirements in that state.
Because licensure laws and regulations are subject to change, we encourage you to check the State Authorization webpage regularly and speak directly with your program coordinator to discuss your plans and any questions about licensure in other states.
Career Information
- American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA) Jobs Board
- North Carolina Recreational Therapy Association (NCRTA) Job and Internship Bulletin
- UNCW Career Center
Professional Organizations
The UNCW Recreation Therapy Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) upon recommendation by the Committee on Accreditation of Recreational Therapy Education (CARTE).
Contact the Recreation Therapy Program
Brent Hawkins, Ph.D. | Program Coordinator & Associate Professor
For questions regarding admissions, advising, transfers and program of study, please contact the CHHS Student Success Center at (910) 962-3208 or chhs@uncw.edu.