Cambrian College graduates who want to work as recreational therapists now have a clearer path to achieve their goal.
Thanks to an articulation agreement signed Aug. 22, graduates of Cambrian's physical fitness management program can earn a Bachelor of Therapeutic Recreation degree from Seneca College in a shorter period of time.
Although Seneca — based out of Toronto — is a college just like Cambrian, it offers some university degree programs. The collaboration will provide students with a maximum amount of transfer credits, making it quicker for them to complete the program.
Cambrian already has many similar articulation agreements with universities, but this marks the first time they've signed one with another college.
The co-ordinator of Cambrian's physical fitness management program said many students have expressed an interest in working as recreational therapists.
These professionals often work at care homes for the elderly, improving residents' quality of life.
“I'm very proud of the program we have, and a lot of the students can get fantastic careers with just this program,” said Martin Dubuc. “But if students do want to continue with their education, then I want to make sure I can give them as many options as possible.”
Moving forward, Cambrian president Bill Best said he expects the partnership with Seneca will blossom, allowing students to move more seamlessly between the two institutions.
“Our goal at Cambrian is to ensure that all of our programs have a pathway to degree completion,” Best said. “It doesn't mean a student needs to do that, but the opportunity is there.”
Seneca president David Agnew said he's looking forward to what the partnership will bring both Cambrian and Seneca students.
“As you do in all these relationships, we'll walk before we run, but we'll be sprinting in no time,” he said. “This is will be a great, exciting thing not just for our institution, but for our students.”
