Curriculum Sequence

Years One and Two: Preparation

The first two years are spent taking general education courses and prerequisites to the major. These include courses in the sciences, psychology and humanities, and an introduction to the field of occupational therapy.

Year Three: Exploration

Exploration of the profession of occupational therapy. Students study the history, philosophy, theory, and practice of occupational therapy. Practice classes are taken in psychosocial aspects of occupation and occupations of children and adolescents. Students begin Level I fieldwork working with clients in community and clinical settings.

Year Four: Competence

Fourth year students continue gaining competence in all practice areas and apply previously learned concepts of occupational performance, adaptation, clinical reasoning, and environmental modification. At the conclusion of the spring semester, students undertake Level II fieldwork.

Year Five: Achievement

Students return to design and complete a culminating thesis or project and a community program development project. Professional course work supports the students’ transition to practice. Students typically complete their second Level II fieldwork during the spring semester, and a third fieldwork experience is strongly recommended.

Post-Graduation: Mastery

As students enter professional practice, they continue their professional development through education, and involvement in professional organizations at the local, state and national level. Mastery is achieved through practice, experience and commitment.

Upon satisfactory completion of the occupational therapy curriculum and all required fieldwork experiences, students are eligible to take the national certifying examination offered by NBCOT, the National Board for Certification of Occupational Therapy. Licensing requirements vary by state. Occupational therapy is licensed in California, and qualified individuals may contact the state licensing board for information on obtaining licensure. Please note that prior felony convictions may affect one’s ability to become certified or licensed.

The Occupational Therapy Program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). For more information, contact ACOTE at (301) 652-2682; 4720 Montgomery Lane, Bethesda, MD, 20814.

In accordance with American Occupational Therapy Association policies, beginning January 1, 2007, only those individuals who graduate from accredited occupational therapy programs at the post-baccalaureate level will be eligible to sit for the certification examination.