Bachelor of Science in Recreation, Parks and Tourism — Recreation Therapy Concentration

Catalog Year 2026-2027

Based on VCCS Curriculum for HEALTH SCIENCES

Transfer Guidance

Guaranteed Admission Agreement

• By completing a transferable associate degree with a 2.8 GPA, students meet the criteria for guaranteed admission into Radford University and Recreation, Parks and Tourism.

• Earn a transferable associate degree.

• Earn a minimum 2.8 cumulative GPA.

• Be in good standing at the current institution.

• Please visit the TransferVirginia.org portal to explore different majors (Transfer Tools) and Transfer Guides that outline course requirements for specific majors.

Important Links & Dates

• University Transfer Center: https://admissions.radford.edu.

• Admission Application: By March 1 for Priority Fall Admission and November 1 for Priority Spring Admission at https://www.radford.edu/admissions/apply/index.html.

• Financial Aid: https://www.radford.edu/fin-aid.

• FAFSA - Free Application for Federal Student Aid: Priority deadline is March 1; apply online at https://studentaid.gov/.

What Should I Consider When Selecting Courses?

• Create a schedule for all required courses, pay attention to prerequisites and when courses are offered, complete your first math and English courses in your first year. For help, see Transfer Steps and Resource Center at www.TransferVirginia.org.

• Connect with an advisor at your community college and Radford University within your first year. College Connect available in your account at www.TransferVirginia.org.

Is This Degree Right For Me?

• Imagine making a meaningful difference in the lives of others through recreation, leisure and therapeutic interventions. 

• Gain hands-on experience working with individuals of all ages and abilities while developing skills in assessment, program planning and inclusive service delivery. 

• Build leadership, communication and problem-solving skills as you prepare for rewarding careers in healthcare, rehabilitation, community recreation, and related human service settings. 

• Whether you're passionate about helping people improve their health and well-being, advocating for inclusion, or creating opportunities for meaningful participation, this program prepares you to make a lasting impact. 

What Is The Impact On My Degree Of Work I Have Already Completed?

• Associate Transfer Degree Completion: The completion of the transfer-oriented degree program will satisfy the REAL Curriculum (lower division/general education) requirements. Students will need to complete all other University, college, and departmental requirements in order to obtain the baccalaureate degree from RU.

• Dual Enrollment – Completion of Associate Degree in HS: Students completing the associate degree in high school should apply using the freshman application. If admitted, the student will receive the benefits associated with the transferable associate degree (as noted prior).

• Credit for Prior Learning: AP, IB, and CLEP will be evaluated for credits (based on receipt and evaluation of scores). See https://catalog.radford.edu/content.php?catoid=55&navoid=2617

• Catalog Year: Students will be subject to the catalog in effect at the time of enrollment at RU unless otherwise requested.

Is This College Right For Me?

• Main campus is located in the city of Radford and our Radford University Carilion campus is located in Roanoke. RU is well-known for strong faculty/student bonds, vibrant student life and a commitment to student support.

• Situated in the stunning landscape of southwest Virginia, there are plenty of nearby opportunities to explore the outdoors.

• With 70+ bachelor's degree programs across a variety of disciplines, the classes at Radford are hands-on and designed to help you prepare for your chosen career path.

• Transfer students have the option to live on-campus or off-campus within the local area.

• Over 80% of students receive some form of financial aid.

• 16 Division I teams and 200+ student organizations.

• Learn more about our college at www.TransferVirginia.org.

Did You Know That…

• Completing your Associate transfer degree satisfies all lower division general education requirements and increases the chance of completing your bachelor's degree.

• Exceeding 3 years or 90 credits at your community college means you may have exhausted your financial aid at that college and have limited your future financial aid at Radford University?

What Can I Do With This Degree?

• Explore possible careers, salaries, and job outlook at www.TransferVirginia.org

Program Successes & Highlights

• We have a high pass rate for the Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist exam.

• You will be able to practice skills with real clients in an educational clinic setting.

• Complete your education with a 12-credit internship under the guidance of a recreational therapist.

What Are My Chances For Getting Accepted?

• Of students who apply to the university, usually about 80% of the entering transfer class comes from the Virginia Community College System.

• Learn more about applying at www.TransferVirginia.org

Do More With Your Degree!

• This degree leads to graduate programs in recreational therapy and other allied health fields.

• Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists can practice in clinical and community settings with a bachelor's degree.

Other Than Classes, Are There Other Program Requirements?

• A 2.7 overall grade point average is required for recreation therapy courses.

• All recreation therapy students must complete a 14-week, 560-hour internship under the supervision of a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist.

• The following courses are required as part of student eligibility for entry into the National Certification Examination through the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification: BIOL 105, BIOL 310, BIOL 311, PSYC 121, PSYC 230, PSYC 439.