The Occupational Therapy Department at Misericordia University is excited to announce that ACOTE has granted candidacy status for the entry level OTD program. This means that the first class to enter into the entry level OTD program will be freshman entering during the fall semester of 2019. MU OT faculty are well positioned to offer the entry level doctorate since they have experience teaching in the post professional OTD for 10 years. This is an exciting opportunity as MU OT is one of the first Universities in the area to provide this level of entry level education for occupational therapists.

The Misericordia University Occupational Therapy department will be accepting applications for the Occupational Therapy Program for students entering in the Fall of 2019.

• Click here to view the course sequence of the entry level OTD program.
• Click here to apply!

The Misericordia University Occupational Therapy department has decided to offer the option to pursue the MSOT OR ELOTD for students entering in the Fall of 2019. The revised MSOT curriculum will be posted soon. Please check back for further updates.Students will not need to make the decision if they want to pursue the MSOT or ELOTD until their Junior year.

Contact Information

For Admissions Information
Maureen Sheridan
(570) 674-6451
msheridan@misericordia.edu

OR

OT Weekend Program Director
Dr. Gwen Bartolacci
(570) 674-6257
gbartolacci@misericordia.edu

Weekend Program Description

The Weekend Program is designed to meet the needs of the adult learner. The Program meets every other weekend during the semester. Classes are held on Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., during the fall, spring and summer terms. The Program brings together students from a wide diversity of undergraduate majors and backgrounds. A number of local motels and hotels exist for overnight housing. The program can be completed in just three years.

Three Year Entry-level BS to MS Program

Required Sequence-Classes of 2015, 2016 and 2017: THREE YEAR ENTRY-LEVEL BS TO MS WEEKEND PROGRAM

This program is specifically designed for individuals who possess a baccalaureate degree in another discipline.

Please Note: Classes meet on-campus for eight weekend sessions during the fall and spring semesters and seven weekend sessions during the summer session. Some courses include the use of Blackboard as a distance learning component, with reduced face-to-face meeting time. An **asterisk indicates that courses will have a reduced number of on-campus sessions.

REQUIRED SEQUENCE- CLASSES OF 2018 AND BEYOND:THREE YEAR ENTRY-LEVEL MS WEEKEND PROGRAM

Total Credits= 84

Admission Criteria:

English Language Proficiency

If English is not your first language, or if English is not the primary language spoken in your home, you must submit the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). The following are the minimum score requirements: Internet-based TOEFL exam (iBT): The Internet-based TOEFL has four subsections, with a grading scale for each section from 1 to 30 (30 being the highest score). Misericordia University will look closely at the score for each section rather than the total score.

The minimum scores for each section are as follows:

• Writing: 22
• Speaking: 22
• Reading: 22
• Listening: 22

Students should indicate on the registration form that they wish the test results to be sent directly to Misericordia University. The TOEFL code for Misericordia University is 2087.

Prerequisite courses: The application must include official transcripts for the following prerequisite courses:

1. BIO 211 A&P I (with lab)
2. BIO 212 A& P II (with lab)
3. Math 115
4. Physics 117 (with lab)
5. PSY 290 Psychopathology (Abnormal Psych)

Prospective students must have a baccalaureate degree in another discipline. Students should not apply if they have not completed their degree. Official transcripts must state "Degree Conferred".

Students with a diverse background of extracurricular activity, leadership positions, and appreciation for the relevance that occupation plays in their individual lives and who meet the following criteria will be considered for the Occupational Therapy Program. The requirements are:

1. A Baccalaureate Degree in another discipline from an accredited program with a minimum of a 3.0 Cumulative Grade Point Average
2. Two letters of reference (at least one from an occupational therapist is highly recommended)
3. 6-8 hours of documented service in a health care setting with an occupational therapist
4. Submission of a 500 word, typed statement of personal and professional goals
5. Successful interview with an occupational therapy faculty member
6. Certified occupational therapy assistants must submit evidence of current NBCOT certification.
7. Technical competency in using Word, Excel, and an electronic classroom is an expectation for all new students.

Interviews are conducted several times yearly.

Post Professional Doctorate in Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Contact Information

For Admissions Information
Maureen Sheridan
(570) 674-6451
msheridan@misericordia.edu

OR

Ellen McLaughlin, EdD, OTR/L
Associate Professor
570-674-6399
emclaughlin@misericordia.edu

The Occupational Therapy Department has received approval from the Middle States Association and has received approval from the Pennsylvania Department of Education for the Doctorate of Occupational Therapy Program.

The OTD program is focused on academic growth in clinical practice areas of occupational therapy, and promotes intellectual discourse through both program content and format. Evidence based practice, a strong component of the curriculum, requires advanced critical thinking and a thorough understanding of research. The inclusion of clinical practice, analysis of evidence, and the skills to develop and lead programs that serve others results in both enhanced professional expertise and valuable services to our communities.

The Occupational Therapy Department at Misericordia University is recognized as an educational leader in the occupational therapy professional community. As one of the first academic institutions to offer an Entry Level Masters degree the Department also offers innovative post professional pediatric programs and a Weekend College program. The OTD degree continues this future oriented perspective integral to our new University status. The degree is designed to provide occupational therapists with advanced clinical, practice management, teaching, and administrative skills. The program emphasizes integration of theory and practice, professional and clinical skills, critical self-assessment, clinical reasoning and decision-making skills, advocacy and health policy. The post professional program is designed to enhance the knowledge and skills that practitioners bring from clinical practice and life experiences. Program graduates should qualify for upper level management positions in a diverse range of practice environments and will be poised to become leaders in the profession.

Why a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy?

OTD graduates are agents of positive change, social responsibility, and ethical care who are prepared for major career advancements. With a doctorate in Occupational Therapy, you can choose from a variety of available career paths such as:

• Influence public policy with knowledge of how occupation impacts health
• Start your own business or private practice
• Develop programs that will enable occupational therapists to be responsive to public health concerns of the 21st century

Why Misericordia?

Relevant: Course work is focused on clinical practice concerns with choice of Pediatric or Adult/Geriatric specialization. Content immediately applicable to clinical practice.

Innovative: Up to six (6) credits from the Post Professional Pediatric Certificate are transferable. Courses are on-line with on campus time limited to 2 days per semester.

Excellent Faculty: Courses are taught by full-time nationally respected doctorally prepared faculty as well as clinical faculty specialists.

Great Value: Convenient location 2 hours from Philadelphia and NYC in a safe, comfortable setting. Small class size with personalized attention, reasonable fees and class schedules designed for working therapists to allow for continued full-time employment.

Curricular Synopsis

The OTD curriculum is composed of 24 credits of "core" courses that address the competencies required of leaders and advocates in the profession. These courses address advanced theory, advanced research, program development and evaluation, occupational science, and public policy and advocacy. Capstone coursework requires the integration of these content areas into a clinical project, which is formally evaluated and presented through professional presentation and/or publication. Each student also completes 9-12 credits in either a pediatric or geriatric specialization, for a total of 33-36 credits for the doctoral coursework.

Program Delivery:

• A combination delivery model of face-to-face and distance learning is used. Classes meet on campus one weekend day at the beginning and end of each semester.
• The program is designed to be completed part-time (2 classes per semester) over a two year tri-semester period.

The OTD program goals are focused in areas of research, advanced practice, leadership and administration. Graduates will:

• be proficient in critically appraising, applying and contributing to evidence that supports occupation-based practice.
• synthesize and apply advanced theoretical concepts and clinical skills in selected areas of practice.
• enhance their leadership and advocacy skills to promote occupational participation in light of human dynamics and private & public policy influences.
• design and administer effective, fiscally responsible client-centered programs.

Routes of Entry

Applicants with either an ELM degree in OT or a post professional Masters degree in another field will complete the following course sequence (33 credits). Applicants must have the equivalent of OT 520 (Research Methods) as a prerequisite.

Applicants to the OTD Program, if admitted, are expected to enroll in the OTD core courses as identified in the Program Sequence. If an applicant is considering the OTD, but wishes to request a revision to this curricular sequence (ie: one course per semester), they must indicate this in their application materials. Priority will be given to applicants who can commit to progressing through the program in the recommended Program Sequence. Those applicants that wish to be considered for a revised curricular sequence may be admitted to the program, but will be enrolled in courses each semester on a space available basis, which may significantly lengthen the curriculum sequence. The OTD Program is committed to meeting the individual needs of students whenever possible.

*OTD 650 Capstone may be taken during Summer Year 1 or Fall, Spring Year 2. All courses are 3 credits.

Students with a bachelor's degree should apply for the Post-Professional MS degree.

For admissions criteria click here.

Click here for OTD Course Descriptions

The Department of Occupational Therapy is proud to offer the Post Professional Certificate in Pediatrics for practicing occupational, physical therapists, and speech-language pathologists. The program began with the first cohort of students in the summer 2003 term.

We are currently accepting online applications!

Click on the image below to access the application form.

Learning Outcomes

Post Professional Pediatric Certificate Program

Students in the Post Professional Pediatric Certificate Program will:

1. Demonstrate advanced proficiency in the gathering and synthesis of their knowledge base in research and evidence based practice in order to implement best practice in pediatric occupational therapy.
2. Exhibit advanced competency in clinical reasoning related to practice, advancing their ability to identify, analyze and apply evaluation and treatment techniques to gain excellence in care for the complex challenges of advanced pediatric practice.
3. Display advances in mentoring and leadership skills that empower them to manage staff and to foster advanced clinical practice skills for junior pediatric practicing clinicians.

Click here for Pediatric Certificate Course descriptions.

Click here for the Pediatric Certificate Flyer.

For admissions criteria click here.

Post-Professional Master's Degree Program

Contact Information

For Admissions Information
Maureen Sheridan
(570) 674-6451
msheridan@misericordia.edu

OR

Coordinator of the Post-Professional Programs
Ellen McLaughlin, EdD, OTR/L
Associate Professor
570-674-6399
emclaughlin@misericordia.edu

The Post-Professional Masters in Occupational Therapy is designed as a 30 credit graduate program with two tracks, an interdisciplinary and pediatric concentration. Students in all tracks of the program will complete a total of 30 graduate credits. These credits will be distributed among the following categories:

• Theory and Core: 9 credits
• Research: 9 credits
• Concentration: 12 credits
  This program is offered primarily in distance and intensive on-campus (5 day experiences) formats.
  The concentration courses can be taken in a pediatric or interdisciplinary track. The pediatric track includes courses currently being offered in the Post-Professional Pediatric Certificate Program. This allows for students who are interested in later applying for the Masters Degree to transfer their graduate credits from the certificate program into the Post Professional Masters Degree program. The interdisciplinary track includes courses from a variety of departments including education, nursing, and organizational management
• Post Professional MS Program

Click here for Post-Professional Masters Degree Course descriptions.

Ellen McLaughlin, EdD, OTR/L Associate Professor 570-674-6399 or email emclaughlin@misericordia.edu


Frequently Asked Questions

For Post-Professional Masters Degree admissions criteria click here.

OT 103 Introduction to Occupational Therapy, 3 credits

The course will introduce students to the profession of occupational therapy and to the Misericordia University Occupational Therapy program, curriculum, policies, and procedures. Specific topics will include: American Occupational Therapy Association policies and documents, the OT Practice Framework, the history of the profession and professional roles and responsibilities in various contexts.

Prerequisite: OT major

OT 205 Occupation: Theories and Perspectives I, 3 credits

This course studies the nature of occupation and the occupational nature of human beings. It is an exploration of the biological, psychological, social, and cultural elements of occupational behavior. It will analyze the impact of occupation on the evolution of the individual, motivation, autonomy, a sense of competence, social efficacy, role learning, quality of life and adaptation styles. Students will study the dimension and characteristics of human occupation including the real and symbolic aspects and the performance imperatives of various occupations. Through a series of laboratory experiences in the classroom and community, students will expand their personal occupational repertoire, leadership skills and understand a framework for occupational analysis using their own experience as a point of reference.

Prerequisite: OT 103

OT 220 Human Development Through Occupation I, 3 credits

In this course, development from birth through adolescence will be studied both from the viewpoints of psychology, occupational science and occupational therapy. An understanding of the biosocial, cognitive, psychosocial, and spiritual changes as a person ages will be presented.

How engaging in human occupation influences the life process will be explored.

Prerequisites: OT Major

OT 221 Human Development Through Occupation II, 3 credits

In this course, adult development will be studied from the viewpoints of psychology, occupational science, and occupational therapy. The influences of biosocial, cognitive, psychosocial, and spiritual changes as a person ages will be presented. Engagement in human occupation and how it influences the developmental and life processes will be explored.

Prerequisite: OT 220

OT 275 Occupation: Theories and Perspectives II, 3 credits

Through a variety of experiences in purposeful activity, students will explore the dimensions and characteristics of human occupation. This will include the real and symbolic aspects of the activity and the performance imperatives of various occupations. The focus of analysis will be on occupations as experienced by others- individually, in groups, and in society. Through experiential activities, students expand their activity repertoire, their advocacy skills, and their understanding of activity analysis. Literature from the field of occupational science is incorporated.

Prerequisite: OT 205

OT 312 Applied Functional Anatomy, 4 credits

This course will provide the student with a detailed understanding of the musculoskeletal anatomy of the limbs, trunk, neck, and head in humans. Since this understanding is critical to enhance the ability of the student to work with clients with disabilities, it is considered as a foundation for the study of occupational therapy intervention. The focus of the course will be on how bones and muscles work to produce movement. Case studies will be used to facilitate learning. The course will include some content on the nerves and blood supply to these organs, as they influence function.

Prerequisites: BIO 211, BIO 212, OT 320, PHY 117

OT 313 Applied Neuroscience, 4 credits

This course addresses neuroanatomy and basic neurophysiology as they relate to developing body structures and functions and their influence on occupational performance. Students will apply neurological concepts, conditions and testing to case studies using clinical reasoning.

Prerequisites: BIO 211, BIO 212, OT 320

OT 320 Impairments and Disabilities Influencing Occupational Performance, 3 credits

This course will introduce students to common conditions seen by occupational therapists.

The course will also introduce students to medical terminology, International Classification of Function, Disability and Health and the OT Practice Framework. Students will analyze the impact of each condition on occupational performance and identify the role of occupational therapy.

Prerequisite: OT major

OT 330 Conceptual Foundations of Occupational Therapy, 3 credits

Students conduct an in-depth exploration of occupational therapy through the study of its history, philosophy, frames of reference and leaders. Emphasis will be on the application, integration and analysis of current and emerging theories and frames of reference that impact the occupational therapy process.

Prerequisites: OT 103, OT 220

OT 335 Context and Environment, 3 credits

The course will explore the impact of the non-human components of the environment on the functional performance of individuals with disabilities, and environmental adaptations (including assistive technologies) that allow a person with a disability to function more fully in the environment. The course will examine the affect of lighting, temperature, visual and auditory stimuli, and physical structure on the cognitive, physical, and emotional performance of individuals with disabilities, and how these factors influence control, independence, and freedom of the individual.

Prerequisites: OT 103, OT 205, OT 220, OT 320

OT 360 Non-Traditional Settings and Occupational Therapy Practices: Working with Homeless Populations, 3 credits

This elective course will introduce the occupational therapy student to issues surrounding a lack of access to health care, specifically occupational therapy services, for adults from an underserved population -- the homeless. 150 minutes/lecture discussion will occur each week, and be supplemented by service learning based field trips. One major field trip will occur over fall break and involve volunteering at a regional homeless shelter. Throughout the semester, field trips to a local community based homeless shelter will also occur.

Prerequisites: Permission of Instructor, students enrolled in the OT weekday program years 2-4

OT 405 Occupational Performance Analysis, 3 credits

This course addresses the evaluation system used by occupational therapists in practice including the development of an occupational profile and an occupational performance analysis. Selected interview, observational, standardized, and non-standardized assessment instruments will be covered.

Prerequisites: All 100 and 200 level OT courses.Corequisite: OT 407

OT 407 Clinical Skills, 3 credits

Students will be introduced to mobility skills, splinting, therapeutic exercise, physical agent modalities, critical care issues, positioning and basic handling techniques, and professional behavior issues. Students will identify, describe, explain and demonstrate basic skills in the areas of mobility, splinting, therapeutic exercise, physical agent modalities, proper positioning and basic handling techniques and critical care related issues.

Prerequisites: All 100 and 200 level OT courses. Corequisite: OT 405

OT 410 Community-based Practice, 3 credits

The OT 410 course is designed to introduce the student to community based practice settings and to help the student develop the necessary skills to work in emerging areas of practice within the profession. Students will explore the current trends that reflect a shift in the delivery of occupational therapy services from traditional settings to health promotion and wellness programs in the community. Throughout the course students will identify and critique programs that promote access to occupational therapy and explore occupation-centered programs at community based agencies that serve various groups and populations. Emphasis will be placed on underserved populations living in the community and/or at-risk populations including children and youth, adults and older adults.

Prerequisite: OT 405, OT 407

OT 430 Sensory Integration, 3 credits

The purpose of this course is to prepare the student to implement the occupational therapy process with consumers affected by sensory integrative disorders and to be knowledgeable about factors that impact service delivery. Thorough review of SI theory, neurology, evaluation techniques, and treatment options will be discussed. In-class exercises and out-of-class assignments will be provided to improves students' clinical reasoning skills and increase students' self-confidence with the new content of the course. Occupation based interventions will be encouraged.

Elective course;

Prerequisite: OT 510

OT 433 Evidence-based Practice, 3 credits

Students will be introduced to the topic of evidence-based practice. Students will develop a clinical question, gather current published evidence, complete a critical review of the evidence, summarize and present the results of the critical appraisal process.

Prerequisite: OT 520

OT 450 Pediatric Assessment, 3 credits

This course is designed to provide students with an intermediate level of understanding of the process of pediatric assessment and evaluation in occupational therapy. The course will focus on the full process of occupational therapy assessment including referral sources, identifying appropriate evaluation tools, clinical observations, standardized tests, report writing, evaluation accommodations and the reporting of assessment results. In-class exercises and out-of-class assignments will be provided to improve students' clinical reasoning skills and increase students' self-confidence with the new content of the course.

Prerequisite: OT 405, OT 407

OT 460 Pediatric Occupational Performance Interventions I, 4 credits

This course will focus on occupational therapy intervention strategies for pediatric populations. Models of practice, theories, and frames of reference guide the intervention process for individuals whose occupational performance is affected by various developmental, physical, and psychosocial conditions. Screening, assessment, formulation of intervention plans, treatment implementation, discontinuation of services, and documentation of services are all aspects covered in the course. This is done in accordance with the profession's standards of practice and code of ethics.

Prerequisite: OT 405, OT 407

OT 461 Research Design in Occupational Therapy, 3 credits

This course will present the principles and processes involved in clinically relevant research. Qualitative and quantitative approaches will be reviewed and analyzed related to their strengths, limitations, and practical uses. The application of appropriate research methods to occupational therapy clinical research will be stressed

Prerequisites: MTH 115, OT 405

OT 462 Level I Fieldwork - Pediatrics, 0 credit

This Level I fieldwork experience includes observation, interaction with pediatric clients and other health care professionals, participation in the intervention process under direct supervision, developing an understanding of the needs of clients, and evaluation of the student’s performance in these areas.

Corequisites: OT 460

OT 470 Non-Traditional Settings and Occupational Therapy Practices: Working with International Populations - Jamaica, 3 credits

This elective course will introduce the occupational therapy student to work with culturally diverse populations in an international setting. Specifically, this course will provide an opportunity for students to develop cultural competency in relation to Jamaican culture, as the course includes a week-long immersion experience in a pediatric health care facility in Jamaica. During the semester, students and faculty will conduct a needs assessment, develop, implement and evaluate programs to meet the needs of the children at this facility.

Prerequisites: Permission of Instructor, students enrolled in the OT weekday program years 3-5

OT 510 Pediatric Occupational Performance Interventions I, 4 credits

This course will focus on occupational therapy intervention strategies for pediatric populations. Models of practice, theories, and frames of reference guide the intervention process for individuals whose occupational performance is affected by various developmental, physical, and psychosocial conditions. Screening, assessment, formulation of intervention plans, treatment implementation, discontinuation of services, and documentation of services are all aspects covered in the course. This is done in accordance with the profession's standards of practice and code of ethics.

Prerequisite: OT 405, OT 407

OT 511 Adult Occupational Performance Interventions II, 4 credits

This course will focus on intervention strategies for adults with physical disabilities and psychosocial dysfunction. Intervention II Adults also examines models of practice, theories and frames of reference. The process of intervention, which this course series emphasizes, includes: screening, assessment, formulation of intervention plans, implementation, discontinuation of services, and documentation of services. This is done in accordance with the profession's standards of practice and code of ethics.

Prerequisites: OT 510

OT 512 Geriatric Occupational Performance Interventions III, 4 credits

The Geriatric Occupational Performance Interventions III course teaches intervention skills required by the practicing occupational therapist. The process of intervention which this course emphasizes includes: screening, assessment, formulation of intervention plans, treatment implementation, discontinuation of services, and documentation of services. This is done in accordance with the profession's standards of practice and code of ethics.

Prerequisites: OT 511

OT 520 Research Design in Occupational Therapy, 3 credits

This course will present the principles and processes involved in clinically relevant research. Qualitative and quantitative approaches will be reviewed and analyzed related to their strengths, limitations, and practical uses. The application of appropriate research methods to occupational therapy clinical research will be stressed

Prerequisites: MTH 115, OT 405

OT 532 Community-based Practice, 3 credits

This course is designed to introduce the student to community based practice settings and to help the student develop the necessary skills to work in emerging areas of practice within the profession. Students will explore the current trends that reflect a shift in the delivery of occupational therapy services from traditional settings to health promotion and wellness programs in the community. Throughout the course students will identify and critique programs that promote access to occupational therapy and explore occupation-centered programs at community based agencies that serve various groups and populations. Emphasis will be placed on underserved populations living in the community and/or at-risk populations including children and youth, adults and older adults.

Prerequisite: OT 405, OT 407

OT 533 Evidence-based Practice, 3 credits

Students will be introduced to the topic of evidence-based practice. Students will develop a clinical question, gather current published evidence, complete a critical review of the evidence, summarize and present the results of the critical appraisal process.

Prerequisite: OT 461

OT 570 Occupational Therapy Management and Supervision, 3 credits

Students in the course will learn about the responsibilities of the occupational therapist in administrative, supervisory, and entrepreneurial roles. The influence of theory, practice and reimbursement regulations, and ethics on occupational therapy service management issues are examined. Topics include strategic planning, facility planning, program planning, accreditation, continuous quality improvement, marketing, management theories, supervisory styles, state licensure regulations, OTR/COTA role delineation, and liability/malpractice issues and insurance. Students in the course will gain skills in financial management, including program funding, third party reimbursement, and budgeting. Opportunities for the occupational therapy entrepreneur are explored, including private practice, consultation, and other innovative occupational therapy business endeavors.

Prerequisites: OT 510, OT 511

OT 591 Level I Fieldwork - Pediatrics, 0 credit

This Level I fieldwork experience includes observation, interaction with pediatric clients and other health care professionals, participation in the intervention process under direct supervision, developing an understanding of the needs of clients, and evaluation of the student’s performance in these areas.

Corequisites: OT 510

OT 592 Level I Fieldwork - Adults, 0 credit

This Level I fieldwork experience includes; observation, interaction with adult clients and other health care professionals, participation in the intervention process under direct supervision, developing an understanding of the needs of clients, and evaluation of the student's performance in these areas.

Corequisites: OT 511

OT 593 Level I Fieldwork- Older Adults, 0 credit

This Level I fieldwork experience includes observation, interaction with older adult clients and other health care professionals, participation in the intervention process under direct supervision, developing an understanding of the needs of clients, and evaluation of the student’s performance in these areas.

Corequisites: OT 512

OT 601 Level II Fieldwork I, 2-7 credits

During this 12 week in-depth course students deliver Occupational Therapy services to clients through research-based interventions which are purposeful, meaningful, and occupation-based. They also gain exposure to the management and administration of occupational therapy programs. In this course students practice occupational therapy in site-specific areas of practice under the supervision of an occupational therapy fieldwork educator. This course also has a distance learning component via a Blackboard course through which an instructor assists students integrate concepts they learned in prior coursework with clinical reasoning practices and skills they are learning on fieldwork. This course may span more than one semester; if so, the student will register for OT 601A, and then register for OT 601B in the following semester, not to exceed 7 credits combined.

Prerequisites: OT 510, OT 511, OT 512

OT 602 Level II Fieldwork II, 2-7 credits

During this 12 week in-depth course students deliver Occupational Therapy services to clients through research-based interventions which are purposeful, meaningful, and occupation-based. They also gain exposure to the management and administration of occupational therapy programs. In this course students practice occupational therapy in site-specific areas of practice under the supervision of an occupational therapy fieldwork educator. This course also has a distance learning component via a Blackboard course through which an instructor assists students integrate concepts they learned in prior coursework with clinical reasoning practices and skills they are learning on fieldwork. This course may span more than one semester; if so, the student will register for OT 601A, and then register for OT 601B in the following semester, not to exceed 7 credits combined.

Prerequisites: OT 510, OT 511, OT 512

OT 610 Elective: Special Topics in Occupational Therapy Practice, 3 credits

Specialized areas of occupational therapy practice will be discussed; these will include, but are not limited to, hand therapy, sign language, assessment in pediatric practice, pediatric splinting, introduction to neuordevelopmental intervention techniques, and a series of courses offered in other disciplines within the College of Health Sciences. Topics vary each year depending upon the student interest and the availability of faculty with professional specialty expertise.

Prerequisite: By permission of the instructor and advisor. OT 615 Evidence-based Practice, 3 credits

This course is designed to provide an extensive overview of evidence-based practice. Students will complete an in-depth evidence-based project related to occupational therapy practice. Students will develop a clinical question, gather current published evidence, complete a critical review of the evidence, and summarize and present the results of the critical appraisal process.

OT 615 Evidence-based Practice, 3 credits

This course is designed to provide an extensive overview of evidence-based practice. Students will complete an in-depth evidence-based project related to occupational therapy practice. Students will develop a clinical question, gather current published evidence, complete a critical review of the evidence, and summarize and present the results of the critical appraisal process.

OT 625 Adolescent and Early Adulthood Issues in Autism, 3 credits

This course investigates the lifespan challenges of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders transitioning through adolescence and participating in life as young adults. The student will participate in an active exploration of issues of the client with autism including: adolescent social and learning abilities, young adult vocational success, adult transition to independent living, and aging impacts. The student will learn how to evaluate and establish community-based treatment plans to support adolescent and adult clients with autism in attaining and sustaining the most independent living possible. The student will also gain knowledge in establishing clear resource support for their clients in the community.

OT 630 Occupational Therapy Issues and Trends, 2 credits

This course will review important issues and trends in the profession of occupational therapy. Students will explore, discuss, and critically analyze, important concepts and happenings in the field. Course content will include the philosophical base of O.T., occupation, health care trends, managed care, professional development, the team approach, inclusion, cultural diversity, occupation-centered and client-centered therapy, service delivery, practice specialty areas, role delineation, professional autonomy, reimbursement, legislation, advocacy, documentation systems, evidence-based practice and emerging areas of practice.

Prerequisites: OT 601 or OT 602

OT 690 Research Project I, 3 credits

This course is designed to provide an opportunity to expand clinical knowledge in the area of Assistive Technology. Students learn the types and characteristics of assistive technology often used by occupational therapists. They also learn how legislation and funding affect client ability to access the various assistive devices. They learn how to evaluate client assistive technology needs, as well as the role of posture, seating, and environmental influences when designing assistive technology systems for clients.

OT 695 Research Project II, 3 credits

Students will complete a research project that contributes to the knowledge-base of occupational therapy; the outcome will include a paper or presentation acceptable for publication in a professional journal.

Prerequisite: OT 690

OT 699 Practice Exam Preparation, 0 credit

This is a required non-credit course which will provide students with the opportunity to take a series of practice and content examinations designed to help prepare them to sit for the NBCOT Examination. As a requirement for graduation, all weekday and weekend program occupational therapy students are required to successfully complete this university-offered NBCOT certification examination preparation course. Successful completion is determined by successful passing of the practice examination. This course is offered two times per year- once in the spring weekday program, and once in a summer weekend format. Students may repeat OT 699 an unlimited number of times until they pass the practice examination; once they have passed the practice exam they may proceed to graduate if all other requirements are met.