Most employers require a minimum of a bachelor's degree in therapeutic recreation or in recreation with an emphasis in therapeutic recreation. There are currently over 50 accredited programs in the U.S. that offer degrees in therapeutic recreation. A therapeutic recreation degree is conferred upon successful completion of required course work and an internship experience. During an internship, the student is placed in an agency they have selected, and is given the opportunity to apply and practice skills learned in the classroom. In recent years, professional credentialing has become essential for employment.
Some states have requirements for licensure, registration or certification as well.
Credentialing is one way to ensure that an individual has met the minimum requirements needed to safely provide therapeutic recreation services. NTRS members include practitioners, administrators, educators, volunteers, students and consumers. NTRS is a branch of the National Recreation and Park Association. To unite professional and paraprofessional therapeutic recreation personnel. To encourage professional development of all therapeutic recreation personnel.