PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Temple University is considering dropping its Bachelor of Science in Recreational Therapy program, much to the dismay of present students, as Temple is one of only 32 colleges in the country that offers the degree.
After completing a program review of its offerings last fall, Temple officials discovered the recreational therapy program has sustained a steep decline in enrollment over the last 10 years — from a high of about 20 new students in 2014 to only one new student last fall.
The review also examined the timeliness of the degree in relation to market demands and determined the university should close the program.
"While this is a discovery major, the number of transfers have declined to less than 5 new transfer students in Fall 2023," Temple said in a statement. "According to the Spring 2024 census, the total enrollment is 70 students with 19 of those students graduating in May 2024. The decline has resulted in the cancellation of low enrollment courses and reduced the number of electives offered to current students.
"Due to this sustained 10-year decline in enrollment, the College of Public Health Dean's office made the recommendation to close BS in Recreational Therapy after the students admitted in Fall of 2024 have graduated. All students currently enrolled or enrolling this fall will have the opportunity to complete their program."
Pennsylvania is one of four states that employ the highest number of recreational therapists. Although enrollment is low, Abby Allen, president of Temple's Recreational Therapy Student Association, said the program is unique and well-respected.
"We are the only one in the Philadelphia area, so that is definitely something that's very important about us," she said. "We're well known in Philadelphia — across the country, honestly."
Allen, who is set to graduate next year, understands the university's position but hopes something can be worked out.
"The dean has been very willing to meet with us and discuss her decision. I think, to us, it is upsetting to hear that it's a business decision because we know how important our field is and it's so valuable to us and all of our clients," she said.
Students started a change.org petition in favor of saving the program. So far, they have gathered about 2,500 signatures.
Temple continued in its statement that the future of the program is still being discussed, and the courses necessary for current students to complete their degree will still be offered. College leadership will continue to meet with program leadership and students to discuss options.
