Occupational Therapy

The Department of Occupational Therapy at Saint Joseph’s University strives to impart the knowledge and skill set needed to make a meaningful impact on patient care. Through innovative teaching, we prepare you to work in a variety of medical and community settings and become a leader in this flourishing field.

Occupational therapy at Saint Joseph’s University consistently delivers a solid, well-rounded and fully encompassed curriculum resulting in well-trained, competent and professional graduates who are employed in their practice setting of choice. We were third in the nation to attain occupational therapy accreditation for entry-level doctoral education and the first of its kind on the East Coast.

Our department has adapted to the ever-changing demands of the healthcare industry and remains an outstanding program of success evidenced by our exemplary National Board Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) board student pass rates. Join us and learn how to support those in need with one of our three accredited OT programs.

Both the Master of Occupational Therapy program (MOT) and the Doctor of Occupational Therapy (DrOT) programs are fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). ACOTE is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
 
More information can be obtained at:  
 
ACOTE
c/o Accreditation Department
American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)
6116 Executive Boulevard, Suite 200
North Bethesda, MD 20852-4929
301-652-AOTA
www.acoteonline.org

Our award-winning faculty are active practitioners who come from a variety of clinical backgrounds, allowing them to bring a wealth of practical knowledge and depth to your learning experience. Their research explores topics including technology, interventions, political action and social and occupational justice issues.

Department of Occupational Therapy Faculty

OTH 105 Overview of O.T. Practice (2 credits)

Overview of occupational therapy practice includes practice arenas, roles of therapists, populations treated, values of practitioners, relations with other professional and non-professionals, introduction to the history of the profession and theoretical concepts.

OTH 112 Overview of OT Practice I (1 credit)

Overview of the value of occupational therapy in society. An examination of professional terminology, historical and contemporary concepts of occupation, and the use of activities as a therapeutic and healing experience.

Prerequisites: HS 111 or HSC 110 (may be taken concurrently)

Restrictions: Enrollment is limited to Undergraduate Day Division level students.

OTH 115 Overview of OT Practice II (1 credit)

An overview of the importance of activity, contextual influences, and social participation in the lives of individuals and communities, and the diversity of occupational therapy practices. Basic professional development concepts and skills are introduced.

Prerequisites: OT 112 or OTH 112 (may be taken concurrently)

OTH 405 Overview of O.T. Practice (2 credits)

Overview of occupational therapy practice includes practice arenas, roles of therapists, populations treated, values of practitioners, relations with other professional and non-professionals, introduction to the history of the profession and theoretical concepts.

OTH 500 Level I Experiences Sem (1 credit)

This course is an introduction to fieldwork for the students in the OT program. Students will be introduced to this topic through the study of professional behaviors and review of skills necessary to be successful in both Level I and Level II fieldworks.

Prerequisites: OT 405 or OTH 405 (may be taken concurrently)

OTH 501 Doctoral Seminar I (1 credit)

This is the first in a series of 3 doctoral seminars which introduces the student to the concept and scope of practice of the doctorally prepared occupational therapist. Through literature exploration, the student develops a knowledge of the evolution of the doctoral prepared practitioner, not only in occupational therapy but in other healthcare fields. There will be readings, discussions, and lectures based not only on the history of health care and public health but also current practice and future needs.

Prerequisites: OT 405 or OTH 405 (may be taken concurrently)

OTH 502 Human Development & Perform (3 credits)

This course provides foundational knowledge of theories of human development and the developmental changes that occur throughout the lifespan. The course is designed to provide an overview of typical and atypical physical, cognitive, social, emotional aspects of human development. Contextual factors (environmental and personal) will be explored. Introduction to the analysis of developmental changes during human occupational performance will be covered.

Prerequisites: OT 510 or OTH 510 (may be taken concurrently)

OTH 502L Human Dev & Perform Lab (0 credits)

This course provides foundational knowledge of theories of human development and the developmental changes that occur throughout the lifespan. The course is designed to provide an overview of typical and atypical physical, cognitive, social, emotional aspects of human development. Contextual factors (environmental and personal) will be explored. Introduction to the analysis of developmental changes during human occupational performance will be covered.

OTH 508 Movement Analysis (3 credits)

Osteology, surface anatomy, and kinesiology with emphasis on peripheral and cranial nerves, upper extremities, head and neck. Regional approach will emphasize movement, performance, observation, and analysis. Lab will feature tutorial groups, focusing on clinical problems and application of movement principles, kinesiology and anatomy. Techniques for evaluating movement will be learned as a method of analysis.

OTH 508L Movement Analysis Lab (0 credits)

Osteology, surface anatomy, and kinesiology with emphasis on peripheral and cranial nerves, upper extremities, head and neck. Regional approach will emphasize movement, performance, observation, and analysis. Lab will feature tutorial groups, focusing on clinical problems and application of movement principles, kinesiology and anatomy. Techniques for evaluating movement will be learned as a method of analysis.

OTH 510 Neuroscience (4 credits)

An introduction to the function and components of the major structures of the normal and abnormal nervous systems including the study of the neurobiological substrates for behavior, learning and human activity. Laboratory includes an examination of brain specimens.

OTH 510L Neuroscience Lab (0 credits)

An introduction to the function and components of the major structures of the normal and abnormal nervous systems including the study of the neurobiological substrates for behavior, learning and human activity. Laboratory includes an examination of brain specimens.

OTH 519 Intro to Clinical Skills (3 credits)

This course is an introduction to basic occupational therapy clinical skills required for work in a variety of clinical settings. Students will be required to demonstrate competencies in, but not limited to, obtaining vital signs, employing safe infection control, and standard precautions. Students will develop basic interviewing, communication, and observation skills. Students will learn client positioning, functional mobility (bed mobility, transfers, and ambulation), ADL and IADL retraining skills using strategies and or compensatory adaptive equipment. Students will begin to develop skills in clinical reasoning, adaptation, teaching, and skills of writing for documenting goals and treatment notes as components of a medical record.

Prerequisites: OT 405 or OTH 405 (may be taken concurrently)

OTH 519L Intro to Clinical Skills Lab (0 credits)

This course is an introduction to basic occupational therapy clinical skills required for work in a variety of clinical settings. Students will be required to demonstrate competencies including, but not limited to, obtaining vital signs, employing safe infection control, and standard precautions. Students will develop basic interviewing, communication, and observation skills. Students will learn client positioning, functional mobility (bed mobility, transfers, and ambulation), ADL and IADL retraining skills using strategies and or compensatory adaptive equipment. Students will begin to develop skills in clinical reasoning, adaptation, teaching, and skills of writing for documenting goals and treatment notes as components of a medical record.

OTH 531 Clinical Medicine (3 credits)

Study of clinical conditions and disease processes that affect functional performance in individuals from birth though old age.

Prerequisites: OT 510 or OTH 510 (may be taken concurrently)

OTH 551 Human Occ: Cncpts & Prctice (3 credits)

This course explores the meaning and purpose of human occupation and its relationship to the promotion of health and the prevention of disease, illness, and dysfunction for persons, groups, and populations. This includes analysis and examination of occupations, activities, habits, and roles for persons, groups, and populations. Laboratory will emphasize engagement in occupations within one’s contextual factors (environmental and personal).

Prerequisites: OT 405 or OTH 405 (may be taken concurrently)

OTH 551L Human Occ: Cncpts & Prctce Lab (0 credits)

This course explores the meaning and purpose of human occupation and its relationship to the promotion of health and the prevention of disease, illness, and dysfunction for persons, groups, and populations. This includes analysis and examination of occupations, activities, habits, and roles for persons, groups, and populations. Laboratory will emphasize engagement in occupations within one’s contextual factors (environmental and personal).

OTH 555 Evaluation & Assessment: OT (3 credits)

Course covers the selection and use of appropriate standardized and non-standardized assessment tools for the comprehensive evaluation of patients/clients. Data are used to establish goals, write reports, communicate findings, supervise staff, and refine interdisciplinary collaboration and home follow-up. Includes an examination of validity and reliability of assessment tools.

Prerequisites: (OT 562 or OTH 562 (may be taken concurrently)) and (OT 519 or OTH 519 (may be taken concurrently)) and (OT 502 or OTH 502 (may be taken concurrently))

OTH 555L Evaluation & Assessment: OTLab (0 credits)

Course covers the selection and use of appropriate standardized and non-standardized assessment tools for the comprehensive evaluation of patients/clients. Data are used to establish goals, write reports, communicate findings, supervise staff, and refine interdisciplinary collaboration and home follow-up. Includes an examination of validity and reliability of assessment tools.

OTH 562 Theories of OT (3 credits)

Study of the theoretical humanistic foundations of occupational therapy practice. Focus will be on major theoretical perspectives, models for practice, and frames of references as a base for practice. Beginning links between theory, practice, and research will be made.

Prerequisites: OT 510 or OTH 510 (may be taken concurrently)

OTH 572 Clinical Mgmt & Supervision (3 credits)

General principles of administration, management and leadership. Program design, funding and implementation will be presented. Staffing patterns, quality assurance, reimbursement, contractual issues, program development and reimbursement issues are discussed as they relate to management in healthcare. Effects of systems, legislative and social issues on practice will be explored.

Prerequisites: OT 405 or OTH 405 (may be taken concurrently)

OTH 590 Fieldwork Level I:Clinical Exp (1 credit)

Students will participate in on-site and off-site, faculty led clinical experiences. They will be applying concepts learned in courses concurrent in this same semester.

Prerequisites: OT 551

OTH 599 Independent Study (1-3 credits)

This independent study course is designed to support students who may need/want concentration in a particular topic area. Learning refinement and expanse of skills, reasoning, and professional practice are highlighted and work toward entry-level practitioner status. These topics may change from term to term.

OTH 600 Advanced Seminar & Comp Exm (3 credits)

Students will engage in a seminar analyzing scholarly works and current critical issues in occupational therapy. This will culminate in a comprehensive examination.

Prerequisites: OTH 694 and OTH 696

OTH 602 Doctoral Seminar II (1 credit)

This seminar is second in a series of 3 seminars which introduces students to the capstone process. Thorough review of the accreditation standards that guide the capstone experiential and project, students will explore their interests, the role of the capstone coordinator, advisor and the student for successful completion.

Prerequisites: OT 501 or OTH 501

OTH 610 Case-Based Reasoning (3 credits)

Critical evaluation of evidence-based practice patterns, professional reasoning, and clinical case reviews. The student will demonstrate the ability to translate and advance contemporary concepts in occupational therapy theory, research, and practice.

Prerequisites: OT 668 or OTH 668 (may be taken concurrently)

OTH 611 Evidence-Based Decision Making (1 credit)

This online course will focus on the application of evidence-based decision-making (EBDM) principles to the practice environment. Students will develop clinical questions based upon the fieldwork environment, conduct database searches to obtain evidence to support practice, and explore methods to facilitate the use of EBDM in clinical practice. This course reinforces the general education skill of information literacy.

OTH 612 Clin Reasoning & Prof Devel (3 credits)

This online course will examine both the clinical reasoning process that guides occupational therapy practice and professional development as a responsibility of professional practice. Clinical experiences from Level II fieldwork will be analyzed as the context for exploring these issues. The student is encouraged to critically explore their own practice while integrating didactic material, concepts of occupation based practice, clinical reasoning, reflection, and evidence-based decision-making. This course is taken concurrently with Level II fieldwork or with instructor permission. This course reinforces general education skill areas of reasoning and problem solving and the general education values/attitudes area of reflective and purposeful learning.

Prerequisites: OTH 694

OTH 615 Therapeutic Groups (3 credits)

This course offers didactic and experiential components designed to prepare students for care delivery in therapeutic groups in all areas of occupational therapy practice. Students will learn to integrate knowledge of group process, group dynamics, and implementation of occupation-based approaches to therapy through lectures and laboratories that allow them to use clinical reasoning and creative critical thinking throughout the semester. This course reinforces the general education skill area of oral communications and the general education values/attitudes area of leadership and teamwork.

Prerequisites: OT 562 or OTH 562 (may be taken concurrently)

OTH 615L Therapeutic Groups Lab (0 credits)

This course offers didactic and experiential components designed to prepare students for care delivery in therapeutic groups in all areas of occupational therapy practice. Students will learn to integrate knowledge of group process, group dynamics, and implementation of occupation-based approaches to therapy through lectures and laboratories that allow them to use clinical reasoning and creative critical thinking throughout the semester. This course reinforces the general education skill area of oral communications and the general education values/attitudes area of leadership and teamwork.

OTH 620 Fieldwork Level I: Clinical (1 credit)

Students will engage in various experiential learning experiences on or off campus throughout the course of the semester to develop clinical skills and professional behaviors in preparation for level II fieldwork. Students will have the opportunity to interact with and understand the needs of clients with various diagnoses, actively engage in the OT Process under guidance, and explore acute care, acute rehab, and/or sub-acute settings through on-site visits.

Prerequisites: OT 682 or OTH 682 (may be taken concurrently)

OTH 623 FWK1:Comm Service Learning (1 credit)

Students are assigned to community sites under the supervision of a professional who is not an Occupational Therapist. Students are expected to participate in the daily activities of the site, engaging with both staff and clients. The focus of this level I experience is on psychosocial behaviors of clients and their environments.

Prerequisites: OT 644 or OTH 644 (may be taken concurrently)

OTH 624 Interventions I: Contextual Ap (4 credits)

The influence of context on occupational performance will be explored from a variety of perspectives and layers including the physical environment and personal factors. The course explores how an individual's, group’s, and/or population’s goals, values, and interests both influence and are influenced by context. Contextual interventions such as environmental modification, adaptive equipment, cultural consideration, and social determinants of health will be examined to improve or enhance occupational performance.

Prerequisites: OTH 551 and OTH 531

OTH 624L Interventions I: Cntxtl Ap Lab (0 credits)

The influence of context on occupational performance will be explored from a variety of perspectives and layers including the physical environment and personal factors. The course explores how an individual's, group’s, and/or population’s goals, values, and interests both influence and are influenced by context. Contextual interventions such as environmental modification, adaptive equipment, cultural consideration, and social determinants of health will be examined to improve or enhance occupational performance.

OTH 630 Community Based OT (3 credits)

This course will develop advanced skills for community-based occupational therapy. Consultative and population-based practices in a variety of contexts including therapy process, funding, and resource development. The student will explain how to assess community needs, propose and design appropriate community programs for individuals and groups, implement a community program and design an outcomes assessment measure. Students will develop a program proposal using community based concepts.

Prerequisites: OT 660 or OTH 660 (may be taken concurrently)

OTH 634 Interventions II: Developmenta (4 credits)

The course aims to introduce students to the use of evaluation data to design and implement meaningful occupation-based interventions to promote development through the life span. The course includes assessment, goal formation, treatment planning, use of intervention techniques, discharge planning, and termination of occupational therapy services. Interventions that will be considered include those that promote health, wellness, and occupational performance across the life span.

Prerequisites: OTH 624 and OTH 502

OTH 634L Interventions II: Develop Lab (0 credits)

The course aims to introduce students to the use of evaluation data to design and implement meaningful occupation-based interventions to promote development through the life span. The course includes assessment, goal formation, treatment planning, use of intervention techniques, discharge planning, and termination of occupational therapy services. Interventions that will be considered include those that promote health, wellness, and occupational performance across the life span.

OTH 636 Clin Ldrshp, Mgmt,&Supervision (3 credits)

Students will review principles of administration, management, and leadership for clinical program design, funding, implementation, and outcomes. Students will develop an understanding of staffing patterns, quality assurance, contractual issues, program development, and reimbursement issues as they relate to healthcare management; analyze the impact of legislative and social issues on clinical practice, systems of care, and delivery of services; and understand healthcare system cultures as they relate to occupational therapist, professional, and client perspectives.

Prerequisites: OTH 405

OTH 644 Interventions III: Psychosocia (4 credits)

This interventions course introduces students to the design and implementation of occupation-based interventions in various behavioral health settings to allow the client to engage in meaningful occupations throughout the lifespan. The course includes assessment, goals formation, treatment planning, use of intervention techniques, discharge planning, and termination of treatment.

Prerequisites: OTH 624 and OTH 682

OTH 644L Interventions III: Psychosoc L (0 credits)

This interventions course introduces students to the design and implementation of occupation-based interventions in various behavioral health settings to allow the client to engage in meaningful occupations throughout the lifespan. The course includes assessment, goals formation, treatment planning, use of intervention techniques, discharge planning, and termination of treatment.

OTH 650 Applied Research Methods (3 credits)

Students will obtain a basic understanding of theory-based research, methodological considerations in the design of research, ways of evaluating practice, and approaches to analyzing data. Examples of qualitative and quantitative designs will be analyzed, and techniques of data analysis examined. Knowledge gained through this course can be used in the evaluation of OT services and in designing and implementing beginning-level research projects. The basic concepts of evidence-based practice will be presented.

OTH 652 OT Interventions IV: Cognitive (3 credits)

This course emphasizes the identification of appropriate theoretical frameworks, goal setting, treatment planning, the use of a variety of intervention techniques to allow the client to engage in meaningful occupations, discharge planning, and termination of treatment. The focus will be on the cognitive components, including, but not limited to, level of arousal, orientation, recognition, attention span, initiation of activity, termination of activity, memory, sequencing, categorization, concept formation, spatial operations, problem solving, learning, and generalization, as they are manifested across the lifespan.

Prerequisites: OTH 634 and OTH 644

OTH 652L OT Interventions IV: Cogni Lab (0 credits)

This course emphasizes the identification of appropriate theoretical frameworks, goal setting, treatment planning, the use of a variety of intervention techniques to allow the client to engage in meaningful occupations, discharge planning, and termination of treatment. The focus will be on the cognitive components, including, but not limited to, level of arousal, orientation, recognition, attention span, initiation of activity, termination of activity, memory, sequencing, categorization, concept formation, spatial operations, problem solving, learning, and generalization, as they are manifested across the lifespan.

OTH 660 Applied Research II (3 credits)

This course is the second of three courses required in the Occupational Therapy research sequence. Building on the first research course and using experiences from Level I fieldwork, students are required to develop a research proposal. This activity will provide students with the ability to translate clinical problems into research protocols by incorporating published research and class learning with clinical cases from their fieldwork experience. Learning will occur through lectures, class activities, class discussions, readings, and assignments. Knowledge gained through this course can be used in the evaluation of OT services and in designing and implementing beginning level research projects. Basic statistics is included.

Prerequisites: OT 650 or OTH 650 (may be taken concurrently)

OTH 664 Interventions V: Rehab Approac (4 credits)

The use of evaluation data to design and implement interventions with clients who are at risk for or who have disabilities due to disease, trauma, medical condition or other impairment. The OT process will include evaluation, goal setting, treatment planning, implementation of intervention techniques, and discharge planning all to allow the client to engage in meaningful occupations and client-centered outcomes.

Prerequisites: OTH 519 and OTH 634

OTH 664L Interventions V: Rehab App Lab (0 credits)

The use of evaluation data to design and implement interventions with clients who are at risk for or who have disabilities due to disease, trauma, medical condition or other impairment. The OT process will include evaluation, goal setting, treatment planning, implementation of intervention techniques, and discharge planning all to allow the client to engage in meaningful occupations and client-centered outcomes.

OTH 665 Applied Research III (3 credits)

This seminar provides and in-depth examination of research and its relationship to practice. Students will obtain an advanced understanding of theory-based research, methodological considerations in the design of research, ways of evaluating practice, and approaches to analyzing data. Learning will occur though class discussions, readings and assignments, including the implementation of the proposal developed in the prior courses.

Prerequisites: OT 660 or OTH 655 (may be taken concurrently)

OTH 668 Evidence-Based Practice (3 credits)

Students will develop their ability to locate, evaluate and incorporate research evidence into the practice of occupational therapy. Students will build upon research analysis and information literacy skills from prior coursework as they develop clinical questions, conduct database searches to obtain evidence, critically analyze available evidence, and determine relevance to clinical practice.

Prerequisites: OT 660 or OTH 650 (may be taken concurrently)

OTH 670 OT Ldrship Managing Change (3 credits)

Learning will focus on general principles of healthcare and practice context trends, professional responses to change, current organizational dynamics & leadership theories/applications, and managing change today. The course highlights the manner in which occupational therapists can leverage this knowledge to meet today's demands while maintaining professional integrity. Students will reflect on personal professional development while contributing to the development of the profession.

Prerequisites: OTH 636 and OTH 680

OTH 672 OT Interventions VI:Technology (3 credits)

Assistive technology devices and services have the potential to impact the lives of persons with disabilities, resulting in increased independence and participation in their daily activities. This course will focus on learning about the various types of assistive technology devices and services including, but not limited to, evaluation and assessment, selection and training, procurement, legislation, and funding. Students will gain an understanding of these applications as they pertain to the communication, learning, and environmental issues encountered by persons with disabilities.

Prerequisites: OT 555 or OTH 555 (may be taken concurrently)

OTH 672L OT Interventions V: Tech Lab (0 credits)

Assistive technology devices and services have the potential to impact the lives of persons with disabilities, resulting in increased independence and participation in their daily activities. This course will focus on learning about the various types of assistive technology devices and services including but not limited to, evaluation and assessment, selection and training, procurement, legislation, and funding. Students will gain an understanding of these applications as they pertain to the communication, learning and environmental issues encountered by persons with disabilities.

OTH 674 Independent Project in OT (6 credits)

The student will work collaboratively with a faculty member to develop and carry out an independent project of mutual interest. This project will result in a submission to a juried conference or publication. Student(s) can elect to participate in an ongoing project within the Department of Occupational Therapy.

Prerequisites: OTH 665 or OTH 694 or OTH 696

OTH 675 Research Independent Study (6 credits)

The course is designed to refine research skills for self-directed students who have an interest in OT research. The student will work collaboratively with a faculty mentor to develop and carry forth a research project of mutual interest. This course should result in a poster, platform presentation, or paper that can be submitted for peer review. Student(s) can elect to participate in one of many ongoing research projects within the Department of Occupational Therapy. The student(s) will gain insights into the research process through faculty mentoring and active involvement in all levels of the research process.

Prerequisites: OTH 665 or OTH 694 or OTH 696

OTH 676 Adv Concepts Community OT (3 credits)

This course is a capstone course to evaluate current issues in and design program development for community based practice. Professional development planning for advancing community based occupational therapy in the future will occur. Analysis of social policies impacting community based occupational therapy will be emphasized.

Prerequisites: OTH 694 or OTH 696 or OTH 630

OTH 678 Hand Therapy Interventions (3 credits)

This is a comprehensive elective course specializing in hand therapy, focusing on the occupational therapy process. It will include evaluation, intervention, and outcomes for clients with common upper extremity conditions. Evidence based assessments and interventions will be examined through scholarly journals and research articles to determine appropriate use in treatment planning for clients. Class will include lectures, hands on activities, selected readings, discussions and case studies. Knowledge will prepare students to develop skills of an entry level therapist in preparation for a Level II fieldwork in the specialized area of hand therapy.

Prerequisites: OT 508 or OTH 508 (may be taken concurrently)

OTH 681 OT: Past, Present, & Future (2 credits)

This course will review the history of the profession of OT and put it in perspective in relation to the development of other health professions and society at that time. The impact of the past on the present practice of OT will be explored. Current critical issues will be discussed in in terms of the potential influences from the past.

OTH 682 Fieldwork I: Community Client (1 credit)

The student will create adaptations and competence promoting strategies for human and non-human elements of the the environment. This will be explored in a collaborative relationship with an individual living in the community. Throughout the course, needs assessments, safety evaluations, community resource finding and construction of low technology devices will be completed by the students, who will be supervised by an OT in the lab.

Prerequisites: OT 624 or OTH 624 (may be taken concurrently)

OTH 685 Family & Client Centered Care (3 credits)

The focus of this course will be to understand and critically analyze both the client-centered and family-centered perspectives for occupational therapy intervention. Students will research various articles written about both perspectives and discuss the effects that these approaches have on intervention. Emphasis will be placed on the critical analysis of each approach from a literature and experiential perspective.

Prerequisites: OT 624 or OTH 624 (may be taken concurrently) or OT 664 or OTH 664 (may be taken concurrently)

OTH 686 Adv Concepts Leadership (3 credits)

Based on their personal strengths, students will develop leadership skills for use in a variety of contexts. Students will analyze and synthesize occupational therapy's unique perspective and responsibility in healthcare leadership. Students will interact with professional leaders to integrate application of leadership concepts. Students will engage in tasks in preparation for their capstone project.

Prerequisites: (OTH 670 or OT 670) and (OTH 636 or OT 636)

OTH 687 FW 1f: Program Development (2 credits)

Students will engage in a fieldwork experience under the supervision of a professional, who may or may not be an occupational therapist, at a site that does not currently have an occupational therapy program. Students will engage in a needs assessment and, based on the outcome, develop a plan for an occupational therapy program. Fieldwork experience will be 1 day per week, 12 visits during the semester. In addition, students will meet weekly in a precepting group led by an occupational therapist to process the experience.

Prerequisites: OTH 694 and OTH 96

OTH 691 Fieldwork Level IIb (9 credits)

This is a full-time three-month clinical experience under the supervision of an occupational therapist. Students will achieve competence in basic entry-level occupational therapy skills including evaluation, goal setting, treatment planning and implementation, discharge planning, and termination of services. This may take place in a variety of clinical or community settings.

Prerequisites: OTH 694

OTH 692 Current Issues Gerontology (3 credits)

Students will explore selected current topics in area of gerontology and the impact of the aging process on health and participation in occupations. Specific topics to be addressed in the course will be selected by students in collaboration with the course instructor. Students will integrate and apply knowledge from previous and current courses and field experiences.

OTH 694 Fieldwork Level IIa (9 credits)

This is a full-time three-month clinical experience under the supervision of an occupational therapist. Students will achieve competence in basic entry-level occupational therapy skills including evaluation, goal setting, treatment planning and implementation, discharge planning, and termination of services. This may take place in a variety of clinical or community settings.

OTH 696 Fieldwork Level IIb (6 credits)

This is a full-time three-month clinical experience under the supervision of an occupational therapist. Students will achieve competence in basic entry-level occupational therapy skills including evaluation, goal setting, treatment planning and implementation, discharge planning, and termination of services. This may take place in a variety of clinical or community settings.

OTH 697 Doctoral Experience Component (12 credits)

Students will engage in a fieldwork experience relative to their chosen content area under the supervision of an appropriate professional. The specific nature of the fieldwork will be defined by the student in collaboration with a faculty member and will entail a 16-week full-time experience.

Prerequisites: OT 600 or OTH 600 (may be taken concurrently)

OTH 698 Fieldwork Level IIb (9 credits)

This is a full-time three-month clinical experience under the supervision of an occupational therapist. Students will achieve competence in basic entry-level occupational therapy skills including evaluation, goal setting, treatment planning and implementation, discharge planning, and termination of services. This may take place in a variety of clinical or community settings.

OTH 699 Special Topics in OT (3 credits)

A special topics course highlights areas of the Occupational Therapy profession as practice and service contexts develop and change over time. These are for advanced learning and the refinement of abilities for the entry-level practitioner. These topics may change from term to term.

OTH 703 Doctoral Seminar III (1 credit)

This seminar is third in a series of 3 seminars which introduce the students to the professional role of the occupational therapist and a doctorally prepared practitioner. There will be an emphasis on occupational therapy professional writing with a focus on scholarship, and clinical and professional reasoning.

Prerequisites: OT 602 or OTH 602 (may be taken concurrently)

OTH 705 OT Education Practicum (3 credits)

Students will synthesize and evaluate current theories regarding teaching and learning in occupational therapy education, and design classroom learning experiences for occupational therapy students. This course will require integration of previously acquired content knowledge and skills with both prior and new teaching and learning theories. Teaching experience will occur within select courses.

OTH 711 Doctoral Capstone Project (3 credits)

In this course which is part of a series of three related courses pertaining to the doctoral capstone process, the students complete and disseminate their capstone projects. This individual, mentored, capstone project synthesizes knowledge gained throughout the curriculum, relates directly to the capstone experience and focuses on one or more of the following areas of study: clinical practice skills, research skills, administration, leadership, program and policy development, advocacy, education, and theory development. Students complete a journal manuscript or written project report, and disseminate the project to the University community and their experiential site and plan for wider professional dissemination.

Prerequisites: OT 675 or OTH 675 (may be taken concurrently)

OTH 737 Community Based OT (3 credits)

This course will develop advanced skills for community-based occupational therapy. Consultative and population based practices in a variety of contexts including therapy process, funding and resource development. The student will explain how to assess community needs, propose and design appropriate community programs for individuals and groups, implement a community program, and design an outcomes assessment measure. Students will develop a program proposal using community based concepts.

Prerequisites: OT 660 or OTH 660 (may be taken concurrently)