Occupational therapy “helps people of all ages participate in things they want and need to do through the therapeutic use of everyday activities (occupations). Unlike other professions, occupational therapy helps people function in their environments (e.g., home, work, school, community) and addresses the physical, psychological, and cognitive aspects of their well-being through engagement in occupation” (AOTA).

The Department of Rehabilitative Health Sciences offers the Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) degree. The program will be delivered in a traditional, on-ground format. The curriculum will emphasize in-depth evaluation and intervention skills with a traditional strong focus on disease, body functions and structure while integrating activity limitations, participation restrictions, and contextual factors.

The entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy program will utilize a multifaceted approach to education with an interprofessional focus, which will prepare graduates to practice with appropriate skills and expertise in diverse practice settings that requires collaboration, teamwork, and the ability to break down silos that are prominent in traditional health care curricula. The mission of the Doctor of Occupational Therapy is to prepare practitioner-scholars who empower and improve the lives of clients, communities, and populations through inclusive interprofessional education demonstrating occupation and evidence- based practice.

Core Requirements: 57 credits OCTH 6101 - Anatomy (6 credits) OCTH 6102 - Pathophysiology and Conditions (4 credits) OCTH 6203 - Biomechanics and Kinesiology (3 credits) OCTH 6204 - Neuroscience (4 credits) OCTH 6205 - Foundations of OT I: History, Philosophy, Professionalism, and Ethics (2 credits) OCTH 6206 - Communication Skills for Health Professionals (2 credits) OCTH 6308 - Human Development and Performance Throughout the Lifespan (3 credits) OCTH 6310 - Foundations of OT II: Theory and Practice (3 credits) OCTH 6311 - Practice Skills I- Pediatrics (4 credits) OCTH 6313 - Educational Strategies in Occupational Therapy (3 credits) OCTH 7113 - Practice Skills II - Mental Health and Psychosocial (4 credits) OCTH 7116 - Practice Skills III - Orthopedics (4 credits) OCTH 7118 - Practice Skills IV- Neurologic Disorders (4 credits) OCTH 7218 - Practice Skills V - Geriatrics (4 credits) OCTH 7221 - Rehabilitation Technology and Environmental Modifications (3 credits) OCTH 7222 - Administration and Leadership (4 credits).