Campus Connection

Nearly all UWL therapeutic recreation majors pass national certifying exam on first try

UW-La Crosse’s therapeutic recreation students have one of the highest pass rates on the national certifying exam. More than 98 percent of UWL therapeutic recreation majors passed the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification exam on the first try compared to a national average pass rate of about 88 percent. The results were compiled from students who took the exam in 2016. Successful completion of the NCTRC exam is a requirement to become a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, a nationally-certified professional who assists people with disabilities or illnesses to improve their functioning and quality of life. Program Director Nancy Richeson points to UWL’s strong curriculum which includes 69 “job tasks” or competencies students must acquire based on the most current therapeutic recreation workforce needs. Richeson says UWL students in the program are strong academically. Also, the vast majority of the program’s faculty have Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist credentials which means they have knowledge, skills and abilities recognized as being essential in the profession. UWL is one of the few universities nationwide to offer therapeutic recreation as its own independent major. A total of 285 students are currently majoring in therapeutic recreation. Learn more about the program.