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Careers

Careers in Therapeutic Recreation

Students graduating with a degree in Therapeutic Recreation at SUNY Cortland are prepared to gain certification through the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC). Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists are prepared to work in a diverse field including career opportunities in the following:
  • Long-Term Care and Rehabilitation
  • Physical and Psychiatric Rehabilitation
  • Adaptive Sports and Recreation
  • Adaptive Outdoor Recreation
  • Hospital-Based In-Patient and Out-Patient Clinical Therapy
  • Mental Health Services
  • Alcohol and Drug Abuse Services
  • Veterans Services

Organizations, Associations and Resources:

American Therapeutic Recreation Association

This national professional association publishes both a general overview of careers in therapeutic recreation and announcements of specific employment opportunities in the field.  

New York State Therapeutic Recreation Association (NYSTRA)  

Careers in Outdoor Recreation

Students graduating with a degree in Outdoor Recreation at SUNY Cortland are prepared to work in a diverse field including career opportunities in the following:

Careers in Outdoor Recreation:

  • Adventure Company Owner or Manager
  • Adventure Travel Planners
  • Challenge/Ropes Course Director
  • Outdoor Adventure Instructor
  • Outdoor Adventure Recreation Director
  • Outdoor Recreation Retail Business Owner or Manager
  • Resident Camp Director
  • Resort Recreation Director
  • River Rafting Guide
  • Rock Climbing Guide
  • Rock Climbing Gym Director
  • University Outdoor Adventure Recreation Director
  • Wilderness Instructor
  • Wilderness Program Director
Learn more about where you fit in the outdoor industry

Organizations, Associations and Resources:

Student Conservation Association (SCA)

Site includes internships and career information in outdoor recreation resource management  

Outdoor Action Guide to Outdoor/Environmental Careers (by Princeton University)

Overview of employment opportunities in outdoor recreation  

American Camping Association (ACA)

Camping professionals, including camp owners, directors, administrators and staff. The organization also has a program for camp accreditation. 

Coalition for Education in the Outdoors (CEO)

Professionals providing educational experiences in and about the outdoors

National Association for Interpretation (NAI)

Organization for those who interpret natural and cultural history for park visitors (commonly known as ranger talks at the parks).  

North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE)

Organization for those who educate people about environmental issues in both formal (classroom) and non-formal (nature centers, camps, etc.) settings.

Wilderness Education Association (WEA)

Organization for those who lead wilderness trips.  

Volunteer Management

Energize Inc.

Resources for professionals in volunteer management, including job bulletin.   

Opportunity Nocs.org

National directory of employment opportunities in non-profit organizations.  

Youth Services

YMCA of the USA (and International) 

Jobs and volunteer opportunities in the U.S and abroad. Search a YMCA facility nearest you and contact for more information.

Travel and Tourism

International Festivals and Events Association

Association of professionals who plan and coordinate festivals and events; includes job bulletin.    

Meeting Planners International

Provides information on education and events, membership, news, publications, and professional resources for those interested in careers as meeting planners.

Resort and Commercial Recreation Association

Site for a national professional association, including job bulletin.    

American Hospitality Academy

Introduces interested travel and tourism students to the exciting world of working within resorts and hotels. Jobs, internships, and training available. 

Travel and Tourism Research Association

The International Association of Travel Marketing and Research Professionals   

Careers in Campus Recreation and Student Services

Career Services in Higher Education Student Services

National Association of Student Personnel Administration.

National Association of College Activities

Student activities professional organizations. 

National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association

Association of College Unions International

International association of student activities professionals.

Careers in Sports and Recreation

National Intramural-Recreation Sports Association

Professional organization dedicated to development of intramural/recreation sports and fitness programs.  

New York Times Job Search Engine

Click on the Sports, Recreation & Leisure Jobs link.