REC 253 Practicum in Therapeutic Recreation

The practicum course involves an unpaid practical experience in Therapeutic Recreation for students in Honours Therapeutic Recreation. This course will require 105 hours interspersed over one academic term (15 weeks). The course will be offered on a credit/no credit basis.

Getting Started

You should begin planning your practicum 2 terms in advance. Placement information sessions run every term, so you should attend a session prior to the practicum planning phase. 

To begin planning your placement please fill out and submit the REC 253 getting started form according to the following deadlines:

Placement Term Getting Started deadline
Fall  February 1st
Winter  May 1st
Spring September 1st

You will be contacted after you have submitted the form to set up a meeting to discuss your placement.

Frequently asked questions

How do I find a placement

How far in advance do I have to contact the organization?

This will discussed at your initial meeting with Leeann. Normally organizations are contacted a full term before the placements begin.

Are any placements paid?

Normally placements are not paid although this is not a requirement.

Do I need to interview for the position?

Yes, most organizations will interview you for the position to make sure you are a good fit.

Are there specific requirements for each placement?

Requirements may vary based on the placement/organization. Leeann will outline the different requirements based on which organization you have been accepted to.  Practicum placements ensure that students are exposed to the Essential Competencies of Therapeutic Practice.

How do I get enrolled in the course?

You must submit a signed and competed Internship TR agreement form to Leeann Ferries. After this is received the undergraduate office will enrol you in the course. You do not have to do anything on Quest. 

What documents do I have to submit?

Once you have secured your placement you will need to submit the following documents in the dropbox on Learn. 

  1. Practicum agreement form
    1. You must submit this before starting the placement
  2. Professional and personal goals
    1. These are submitted after starting the placement and conversing with your placement supervisor
  3. Mid term evaluation
    1. Submitted after around 50 hours
  4. Final evaluation
    1. Submitted after completion of the 105 hours
  5. Final paper
    1. Due two weeks after your final day

You will receive all of these documents and further explanations in your student information package after submitting the web form.

What if I don't have time in my schedule to complete the practicum

REC 253 is available every term. You must be able to balance the 105 total hours with your course work throughout the term. The work hours vary between organizations and are normally agreed upon before the placement begins.

How many hours do I have to complete each week?

35-40 hours per week over 14-16 weeks.