Jobs Recreational therapists held about 39,000 jobs in 1998. More than three-fifths worked in hospitals or nursing homes. Some therapists were self-employed. A college degree in recreation therapy is the usual requirement to get a job. There are about 150 such programs.
Most schools offer bachelor's degrees.
Some offer other degrees, such as associate or master's. A national board certifies therapeutic recreation specialists. First, they must get a bachelor's degree. Then, they have to pass an exam. Recreational therapists should be at ease working with disabled people.