"Faculty Member of Recreational Therapy (Non-tenure Track,F0454A ,)"

Shape the Future of Recreational Therapy at Old Dominion University! The School of Rehabilitation Sciences in the Ellmer College of Health Sciences at Old Dominion University (ODU) invites applications for a full-time, 10-month non-tenure track faculty position in Recreational Therapy. We are seeking an energetic and student-centered educator with a passion for preparing the next generation of Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRS) and advancing the profession through innovative teaching, interprofessional collaboration, and service.

ODU’s Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences degree in Recreational Therapy is an exemplary undergraduate educational program with a sustaining track record of outstanding commitment to academic rigor, student success, and professional leadership. Students complete a comprehensive curriculum, hands-on community-engaged learning, and a 14-week, 560-hour internship as required by the NCTRC credentialing standards. The program is housed within a school dedicated to interprofessional education and collaborative rehabilitation sciences, which includes Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Athletic Training, providing robust opportunities for interprofessional education and scholarly collaboration.

The candidate will:

• Teach undergraduate courses in recreational therapy and related topics
• Advise and mentor students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Recreational Therapy
• Participate in curriculum development and program evaluation
• Engage in service to the School, College, University, and profession
• Contribute to the development of a strong academic and clinical learning environment
• Collaborate with faculty across disciplines in interprofessional teaching and service initiatives

Located in Norfolk, Virginia, Old Dominion University is a research-intensive, public institution committed to innovation, inclusion, and community engagement. The School of Rehabilitation Sciences provides a vibrant academic environment for faculty dedicated to student success, interprofessional learning, and service to the broader community. The ODU Recreational Therapy Program is a model of academic excellence and leadership in the field and an ideal home for educators who want to make a lasting impact.

Minimum required education and/or special licenses, registrations, trainings, or certifications: Master’s degree in Recreational Therapy or Therapeutic Recreation OR Bachelors Degree in Recreational Therapy or Therapeutic Recreation and Masters Degree in Related Field earned by July 25, 2026.

Minimum required level and type of experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities: Current certification as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) in good standing with the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC). Minimum of three years of related experience, including at least one year of direct service in recreational therapy by July 25, 2026.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated excellence in teaching undergraduate recreational therapy coursework
• Active service and leadership within the recreational therapy profession
• Experience with interprofessional collaboration in academic or practice-based environment
• Proficiency in current NCTRC-required competencies for professional certification
• Familiarity with CARTE accreditation standards and the accreditation process

Application Instructions: Interested candidates must apply at https://jobs.odu.edu/postings/23821 and attach the following with their online application: 1. A letter of application addressing interest in and qualifications 2. A current curriculum vitae 3. A statement of teaching philosophy and approaches. 4. Unofficial graduate transcripts 5. Names, email addresses and telephone numbers of three references from academic and professional sources. Interested applicants may also contact the Search Committee Chair, Ms. Shelly Beaver (sbeaver@odu.edu), directly for further information.