About TRO
Therapeutic Recreation Ontario (TRO) is the professional association that represents Therapeutic Recreation practitioners in the province. It was established in 1999 and has since grown to a membership of more than 1,800 practitioners, educators, and students.
TRO’s vision is therapeutic recreation for all. Our mission is to empower our TRs and partners through professional development, advocacy and sustainable growth. We offer quality membership services, networking opportunities, evidence-based research and best practices. We set the standard for excellence in the profession through our Designation (R/TRO).
Strategic Plan
With the goal of reflecting members’ needs and interests and striving to elevate and advance the Therapeutic Recreation profession, the following four Strategic Priorities have been identified for TRO for 2019-2021: Technology, Engagement, Advocacy and Sustainable Growth. A number of objectives have been identified under each Strategic Priority that will be implemented both in the near future and over the next three years. Read more here: 2019-2021 TRO Strategic Plan
TR Post-Secondary Programs
Therapeutic Recreation/Recreation Therapy is offered at both the college and university level in Ontario.
Although we make an effort to keep this page up to date, we recommend that you confirm the curriculum by visiting the school websites below. Please contact TRO if you would like to inform us of any updates to this list.
Please click on the individual schools for more details about admission requirements, curriculum details, practical experience, articulation agreements, etc.
Overview of Recreation Therapy Post-Secondary Programs in Ontario (PDF)
Therapeutic Recreation Degree Programs
- Brock University – Full-time and part-time: both range from 16 months to 4 years
- Seneca College – Full-time: 4 year, Fast-track: 3 year
- University of Waterloo – Full-time: 4 year traditional program (regular) or 5 year co-op program
Ontario College TR Graduate Certificate Programs (1 year)
TR Graduate Certificate Programs are available at the schools listed below. To be eligible for the 1-year certificate, applicants must have obtained a related post-secondary degree or diploma.
Recreation Therapy Diplomas (2 year diploma)
- Canadore College – Fast Track Diploma (1 year) also available
- Confederation College – Accelerated program also available
- Lambton College – Accelerated program also available
- Mohawk College – Intensive Diploma (1 year) also available
- Niagara College – Fast Track Diploma (16 months) also available
- Six Nations Polytechnic – Fast Track Diploma (1 year) also available