Occupational Therapy Assistant

Contact Information

Scott L. Homer, MS, OTR/L – Chairperson

Phone: (518) 438-3111, ext. 246

Email: shomer@mariacollege.edu

Download: Occupational Therapy Student Handbook

Download: 2012-2013 Occupational Therapy Assistant Fact Sheet

If you have a passion for helping people, for restoring dignity and helping to rebuild lives, then a career in occupational therapy may be for you.  Occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) help people with many concerns, including developmental disabilities, vision rehabilitation, traumatic brain injury, geriatrics and physical dysfunction, outpatient and home care, and autism.

The mission of Maria’s Occupational Therapy Assistant Program is to give students a quality academic and clinical education in preparation for work with individuals of all abilities, ages, and from various cultural and socioeconomic groups.  The program is based on the altruistic and compassionate values shared by the occupational therapy profession, and the College’s founders, the Sisters of Mercy—both acknowledging the value of human differences and individuality.

Occupational Therapy courses are offered in the Day Division and Weekend College. Courses are taught in a combination of lecture, discussion and demonstration, with active participation being vital to student learning. Clinical experience is offered in a variety of traditional settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, mental health facilities, developmental centers and schools. emerging areas of OT practice in community and social systems are used to reflect local current trends in health care. Clinical laboratory and fieldwork education are scheduled during the day hours for all students. Students in the Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) Program may need to be certified in CPR and/or fingerprinted with background checks to meet individual clinical site requirements.

“I have to say, I really enjoyed my time here at Maria College because you are treated so well by the faculty and staff.  They care about you as a whole person and not just as a student.  In occupational therapy, we talk about how to treat your patient holistically, and they certainly do that here at the College.”
– Mavis Kelly, Occupational Therapy

All students must meet the health requirements of the Occupational Therapy Assistant Program and clinical agencies. Satisfactory health clearance, record of immunizations and professional liability insurance must be on file in the department prior to participation in each of the courses with a clinical component (OcT 111, 116, 117, 118, 216-219). A grade of “C” must be obtained in all required courses. (A “C-” is not acceptable.) Satisfactory performance in clinical experiences is required for continuance in and graduation from the program.

Graduates of the program are eligible to sit for the National Occupational Therapy Assistant Certification Examination, administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT), and are eligible to apply for state licensure. Successful completion of the exam allows the individual to use the title “Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant” (COTA). The majority of states require applicants to pass the certification examination to meet eligibility criteria for licensure. A prior felony conviction may affect a graduate’s ability to sit for the NBCOT Certification Exam and/or attain state licensure.

You will know OTA is right for you if…

  • You have a passion for helping people.
  • You have the endurance to encourage patients, even when their progress is slow.
  • You are committed to working as part of a team.
  • You enjoy working with developmentally disabled patients to teach them skills that will help them work successfully in society.
  • You’re happy supervising patients to be sure they are following treatment plans.
  • You are a detail-oriented person, required to record patients’ improvements for the occupational therapist to review.

Clinical Observation and Fieldwork Requirements

  • OcT 111 (Introduction to OT) includes 40 day hours of clinical observation.
  • OcT 117 (Fieldwork I) consists of two weeks, full-time days, following spring final examinations.
  • Fieldwork requirement in the Day Fourth Semester or Weekend Eighth Term—Following successful completion of academic coursework, students must select two or three Fieldwork II courses (OcT 216-219), each consisting of four to eight weeks, for a total of 16 weeks and a minimum total of 12 credits.  All OTA students must complete Fieldwork II within 18 months following completion of academic course work.

Additional OTA Fees

  • OTA Fee – $100/semester
  • OTA Senior Review Seminar/Testing Fee  (OcT 230) – $250
  • Malpractice insurance – $20/year
  • Uniforms, required – Outfitter’s Fee

*Note: Weekend College Program offered only if enrollment warrants.

Occupational Therapy NetLibrary eBooks
Besides being available on you PC or laptop, you may also access these eBooks n the Barnes & Noble Nook, the Sony Daily Edition, Sony Digital Readers (PRS-300, 505, 600 and 700BC), or the COOL-er. The list of compatible devices will expand over time.

  1. OTA Scholarship and Articulation Agreements

    Scholarships are available to students entering into the field of occupational therapy.  For more information, contact the state and national OT associations at www.aota.org or www.nysota.org.

    A two-year OTA degree can be a stepping stone to higher education.  Maria College has articulation agreements with the following institutions for continuation to a three-year master’s degree program:  Utica College, The Sage Colleges and Dominican College.  Credits earned are fully transferable to the Occupational Therapy bachelor’s degree programs at The Sage Colleges and Utica College.  In addition, the majority of Maria credits transfer to most other four-year colleges or universities, but the student should check with those institutions to find out admissions requirements. Find more information on these agreements at: http://mariacollege.edu/admissions/transferring-to-4-year-colleges/

  2. OTA Program Outcomes

    The total number of graduates who passed the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) certification examination as first-time new graduate* test takers in 2009–2011 was 21 out of 25, which is a pass rate of 84%. During that three-year period, the program had 50 graduates.

    *New graduates are those taking the exam within one year of graduation date.

    Recently, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov) indicated the need for qualified occupational therapy assistants is expected to grow much faster than average, by approximately 25 percent through 2016.  The majority of occupational therapy jobs are found in hospitals, nursing homes, residential care facilities, rehabilitation and psychiatric centers, and a wide range of public, private and special schools.  Other positions  are found in community care and family service agencies.

     

  3. Accreditation

    Accreditation is by :

    ACOTE c/o Accreditation Department
    American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)
    4720 Montgomery Lane, Suite 200
    Bethesda, MD 20814-3449
    (301) 652-2682

    The OTA Program will be re-accredited in 2020-2021 academic year.

    *Each state and/or profession has procedures for certification and licensure, including, among others, consideration of felony convictions, pending criminal changes and professional misconduct.  As a result, completion of a program does not guarantee licensure or certification.

     

  4. Resources

Division

  1. Day Division

    First Semester

    Code Course Name Credit Hours
    Total Credits 18
    AnP 105 Anatomy and Physiology I 3

    3 credit hours

    The first semester of a two-semester sequence that introduces the structure and function of the human body, with an emphasis on providing a foundation for the study of pathological conditions. The processes by which the body maintains a stable internal environment (homeostasis) are stressed throughout. Topics include: an introduction to the human body; a review of general chemistry; an introduction to biological chemistry; cells; tissues; fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base balance; the integumentary system; the skeletal system; articulations; nerve tissue; and muscle tissue. 

    Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry

    AnP 107 Anatomy and Physiology I Laboratory 1

    1 credit hour 

    Laboratory exercises that complement and supplement the lecture material of Anatomy and Physiology 105. Topics include: regional terminology; the axial skeleton; the appendicular skeleton; articulations; fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base dynamics; nerve tissue physiology; and skeletal muscles.

    Eng 111 Composition I 3

    3 credit hours

    A study of the principles of effective written communication with an emphasis on the practical writing needed for academic and professional work. The course concentrates on the development of writing in terms of focus, content, organization, style and mechanics. Students will engage in writing and rewriting using instructor and student feedback. Summaries, short papers, quizzes and APA-style research papers are required.

    OcT 111 Introduction to Occupational Therapy 3

    3 credit hours (Fall) 

    An overview of the domain and scope of occupational therapy practice, the intervention process, and the roles and functions of the occupational therapy assistant in current health care and rehabilitation environments. Lectures cover the history, philosophy, language, theoretical frames of reference, ethics and organizational structures of the profession. The contribution of one’s “occupations” in promoting health and wellness will be explored through readings, discussion and clinical observations in a variety of service delivery options. The student will have several opportunities to practice observation skills, interpersonal communication skills and professional behaviors, while expanding his/her knowledge of occupational therapy.

    OcT 112 Occupational Therapy Skills and Application I 2

    2 credit hours (Fall) 

    Selected activities will be used in this laboratory practicum to teach occupational task analysis, to grade, modify and adapt activities. Students will use a variety of tools and materials, use the teaching/learning process to engage peers in new learning, and consider safety issues and precautions relevant to patient populations and given activities. The assistive technology unit will allow each student to demonstrate competency in computer literacy through learning activities as they develop computer skills for personal and professional use. 

    Corequisites: OcT 111–114; AnP 105, 107

    OcT 115 Occupational Therapy in General/Medical Practice 3

    3 credit hours (Fall) 

    A human disease course that focuses on medical terminology, selected medical conditions, diseases, and functions of each bodily system. While the focus is on the disease process, medical diagnosis and treatment, the rationale for referral to occupational therapy and an introduction to recommended treatment techniques, precautions and prognosis for treating specific diseases/disabilities will be incorporated. Assignments will include medical terminology quizzes, article reviews and a disease-related term paper. 

    Corequisites: OcT 111 and 112 and AnP 105, 107 or consent of instructor

    Psy 100 General Psychology 3

    3 credit hours

    An introduction to psychology as a science: a study of cognitive, biological and social processes in understanding the dynamics of human behavior.

    Second Semester

    Code Course Name Credit Hours
    Total Credits 20
    AnP 106 Anatomy and Physiology II 3

    The second semester of a two-semester sequence that introduces the structure and function of the human body, with an emphasis on providing a foundation for the study of pathological conditions. The processes by which the body maintains a stable internal environment (homeostasis) are stressed throughout. Topics include: an introduction to nervous system organization and function; the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord); the peripheral nervous system (somatic nervous system, autonomic nervous system, sensation); the endocrine system; the cardiovascular system (blood, heart, circulation, and lymphatic system); the respiratory system; the urinary system; and the digestive system.

    Prerequisites: AnP 105, 107 with a grade of “C” or better

    AnP 108 Anatomy and Physiology II Laboratory 1

    1 credit hour 

    Laboratory exercises that complement and supplement the lecture material of Anatomy and Physiology 106. Topics include: spinal cord; brain; peripheral nervous system; sensation; endocrine system; heart; heart dynamics; circulation; respiratory system; urinary system; digestive system; and reproductive systems. 

    Prerequisite: AnP 105, 107 with a grade of C or better.

    OcT 113 Growth and Development 3

    3 credit hours (Spring)

    Lectures will cover the normal physical, cognitive and psychosocial developmental milestones from conception to death. Current health issues and lifestyle trends will be addressed as they impact an individual's necessary and chosen occupations across the life span. Topics will include issues pertinent to specific age groups, including learning disabilities, eating disorders, substance abuse and problems of the elderly. 

    Prerequisite: OcT 111, 112, 115; AnP 105, 107

    OcT 114 Daily Living Skills 3

    3 credit hours (Spring) 

    The knowledge and skills necessary to provide therapy to improve clients' functional levels and maximize ability to engage in chosen occupations as related to daily life will be developed through lecture and laboratory participation. The use of adaptive equipment and methods, assessment of self care, joint movement and strength, body mechanics, transfer techniques, and the use of mobility devices (wheelchairs, walkers, canes) as well as related treatment precautions, terminology, professional documentation, and an introduction to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) will be included. 

    Prerequisites: OcT 111, 112, 115; AnP 105, 107

    OcT 116 Occupational Therapy Skills and Application II 2

    2 credit hours (Spring) 

    Building on the general concepts taught in OcT 112, a variety of expressive, cognitive and sensorimotor media will be covered by lecture and in laboratory experiences.The occupations of play, leisure and social participation, across the life span and for various cultures, will be explored. Emphasis will be placed on group dynamics, adaptive play and leisure activities for various age groups. Students will have opportunities to practice planning and leadership skills that guide group leisure activities during labs and then apply these skills in community-based settings. 

    Prerequisites: OcT 111, 112

    OcT 117 Fieldwork I 1

    1 credit hour (Spring)

    A two-week, full-time day, supervised experience that immediately follows completion of second semester occupational therapy courses. Students will be assigned to occupational therapy practice settings to participate in the therapeutic process. Assignments are designed to help the students gain an awareness of the services provided in the assigned setting, giving each student the opportunity to actively apply the knowledge and skills gained in the first year OTA courses as they work with clients and other health care staff.  

    Prerequisites: OcT 111-116; AnP 105, 107

    OcT 119 Kinesiology 1

    1 credit hour (Spring-Summer)

    The musculoskeletal system, human movement, posture and body mechanics will be studied in lecture and laboratory. Case studies and movement analysis will be used to help the student apply kinesiology principles to occupational therapy treatment techniques. 

    Prerequisites: AnP 105, 107

    Psy 205 Psychology of Interpersonal Relations 3

    3 credit hours
    The application of basic principles and concepts of interpersonal relationships.  Topics include verbal and nonverbal communication, personality styles and levels of maturity.  Prerequisite: Psy 100 or consent of instructor.

    ReS/Phi Elective 3

    Third Semester

    Code Course Name Credit Hours
    Total Credits 19
    Eng Elective 3
    OcT 118 Occupational Therapy Skills and Application III 1

    1 credit hour (Summer-Fall) 

    A community-based learning course that allows students to apply previous and concurrent learning to real-life practical situations. Utilizing task analysis, group process and group dynamics, the students will engage individuals, groups and populations in selected occupations. Students will have opportunities to plan and lead occupation-based activities in settings such as assistive living facilities, adult day programs and group homes. 

    Prerequisites: OcT 111-116

    OcT 211 Management Procedures 2

    2 credit hours (Summer-Fall) 

    The official documents of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), professional journals, and websites are utilized to explore what guides and drives occupational therapy practice. This course is presented as a hybrid course using distance learning methods and face-to-face classroom instruction/discussion.The goal is to reinforce communication skills and computer competency as the student studies professional issues, including roles and functions, organizational and administrative principles, clinical reasoning, supervision,
    reimbursement mechanisms and professional development. The credentialing processes to meet professional and legal criteria to practice are also covered. 

    Prerequisites: OcT 111-116

    OcT 213 Occupational Therapy in Developmental Disabilities Practice 3

    3 credit hours (Summer-Fall) 

    The student is introduced to conditions that interrupt the normal growth and development sequence. Lectures will cover etiology, signs and symptoms of various diagnoses, and the related occupational therapy theory, frames of reference, and treatment methods and techniques. Laboratory sessions stress hands-on learning designed to help the student develop the skills necessary to provide occupational therapy treatments in early childhood school-based programs, and in community-based programs from infancy through adulthood. 

    Prerequisites: OcT 111-116; AnP 105-108; Psy 100

    OcT 214 Occupational Therapy in Physical Dysfunction Practice 3

    3 credit hours (Fall) 

    Lectures and clinical presentations are used to teach medical, neurological and orthopedic conditions that result in physical, cognitive and/or sensory dysfunction. The application of occupational therapy principles and techniques will be reinforced and practiced during laboratory sessions. Case studies, role playing, guest lecturers, and clinical field trips will be used to present disabling conditions and occupational therapy treatment interventions. 

    Prerequisites: OcT 111-116; AnP 105-108

    OcT 215 Occupational Therapy in Psychosocial Dysfunction Practice 4

    4 credit hours (Fall) 

    The theory and application of occupational therapy principles and techniques in the treatment of individuals with psychosocial dysfunction are presented in lectures and laboratory sessions. Students will have opportunities to examine their own perceptions of mental illness, to learn about the history of the treatment of the mentally ill, and the diagnostic characteristics of psychological and behavioral disorders frequently seen in occupational therapy. Group dynamics, frames of references, and community and social services available for individuals with a mental illness will be covered. Emphasis will be on the occupational therapy assistant’s role in assessment, treatment planning, treatment interventions and documentation. Interpersonal skills, group leadership and interviewing skills are practiced through role-playing and community-based experiences. 

    Prerequisites: OcT 111-116; Psy 100, 205

    ReS 201 Contemporary Moral Issues 3

    3 credit hours
    Cross listed as Phi 201 

    This course is a theoretical and applied ethics course. Students will examine the major ethical theories and apply them to ethical issues and concerns of the twenty-first century. Topics include bioethics, end of life decision-making, environmental ethics, and racism and genocide. In addition, students will use ethical decision-making frameworks in discussing and analyzing case studies.

    Fourth Semester

    Code Course Name Credit Hours
    Total Credits 14
    OcT 216 Fieldwork II – Psychosocial Dysfunction 3-6

    3-6 credit hours (Spring)

    A supervised clinical practicum and continued study in psychosocial settings, such as traditional psychiatric hospitals and community-based mental health centers.

    Prerequisite: OcT 215

    OcT 217 Fieldwork II – Physical Dysfunction 3-6

    3-6 credit hours (Spring)

    A supervised clinical practicum and continued study in a physical disability setting, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers and nursing homes.

    Prerequisite: OcT 214

    OcT 218 Fieldwork II – Developmental Disabilities 3-6

    3-6 credit hours (Spring)

    A supervised clinical practicum and continued study in a developmental disability setting, including developmental centers, preschools and school-based programs.

    Prerequisite: OcT 213

    OcT 219 Fieldwork – Other 3-6

    3-6 credit hours (Spring)

    A supervised clinical practicum in a nontraditional setting or emerging area of practice. These opportunities are growing and may provide an appropriate placement for students who have had previous occupational therapy-related life experiences. The approval of the Academic Fieldwork Coordinator is required. 

    Prerequisites: Two of the following OcT 213, OcT 214 or OcT 215

    OcT 230 Professional Issues in Occupational Therapy 2

    2 credit hours (Spring) 

    An interactive, distance learning course that utilizes computer-based discussions and dialog about assigned and student-selected topics that accompany the Level II Fieldwork courses. The assignments will facilitate transition from the student role to the clinician role, as the students are encouraged to further explore current issues that impact on practice. Students will be expected to expand their knowledge and understanding of topics that were introduced in previous occupational therapy course work, discuss potential research topics raised by patient issues identified during the fieldwork experiences, plan an activity to promote occupational therapy, and develop a plan for continued education as they prepare to enter the workforce as occupational therapy assistants. Information about graduation, the National Certification Examination, professional and legal credentialing and job placement will conclude this course in a face-to-face seminar following the completion of Fieldwork II. 

    Prerequisites: OcT 111-215  Corequisites: OcT 216-219

  2. Weekend College: First Year

    First Term

    Code Course Name Credit Hours
    Total Credits 10
    AnP 105 Anatomy and Physiology I 3

    3 credit hours

    The first semester of a two-semester sequence that introduces the structure and function of the human body, with an emphasis on providing a foundation for the study of pathological conditions. The processes by which the body maintains a stable internal environment (homeostasis) are stressed throughout. Topics include: an introduction to the human body; a review of general chemistry; an introduction to biological chemistry; cells; tissues; fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base balance; the integumentary system; the skeletal system; articulations; nerve tissue; and muscle tissue. 

    Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry

    AnP 107 Anatomy and Physiology I Laboratory 1

    1 credit hour 

    Laboratory exercises that complement and supplement the lecture material of Anatomy and Physiology 105. Topics include: regional terminology; the axial skeleton; the appendicular skeleton; articulations; fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base dynamics; nerve tissue physiology; and skeletal muscles.

    Eng 111 Composition I 3

    3 credit hours

    A study of the principles of effective written communication with an emphasis on the practical writing needed for academic and professional work. The course concentrates on the development of writing in terms of focus, content, organization, style and mechanics. Students will engage in writing and rewriting using instructor and student feedback. Summaries, short papers, quizzes and APA-style research papers are required.

    Psy 100 General Psychology 3

    3 credit hours

    An introduction to psychology as a science: a study of cognitive, biological and social processes in understanding the dynamics of human behavior.

    Second Term

    Code Course Name Credit Hours
    Total Credits 10
    AnP 106 Anatomy and Physiology II 3

    The second semester of a two-semester sequence that introduces the structure and function of the human body, with an emphasis on providing a foundation for the study of pathological conditions. The processes by which the body maintains a stable internal environment (homeostasis) are stressed throughout. Topics include: an introduction to nervous system organization and function; the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord); the peripheral nervous system (somatic nervous system, autonomic nervous system, sensation); the endocrine system; the cardiovascular system (blood, heart, circulation, and lymphatic system); the respiratory system; the urinary system; and the digestive system.

    Prerequisites: AnP 105, 107 with a grade of “C” or better

    AnP 108 Anatomy and Physiology II Laboratory 1

    1 credit hour 

    Laboratory exercises that complement and supplement the lecture material of Anatomy and Physiology 106. Topics include: spinal cord; brain; peripheral nervous system; sensation; endocrine system; heart; heart dynamics; circulation; respiratory system; urinary system; digestive system; and reproductive systems. 

    Prerequisite: AnP 105, 107 with a grade of C or better.

    Psy 205 Psychology of Interpersonal Relations 3

    3 credit hours
    The application of basic principles and concepts of interpersonal relationships.  Topics include verbal and nonverbal communication, personality styles and levels of maturity.  Prerequisite: Psy 100 or consent of instructor.

    ReS/Phi Elective 3

    Third Term

    Code Course Name Credit Hours
    Total Credits 6
    Eng Elective 3
    ReS 201 Contemporary Moral Issues 3

    3 credit hours
    Cross listed as Phi 201 

    This course is a theoretical and applied ethics course. Students will examine the major ethical theories and apply them to ethical issues and concerns of the twenty-first century. Topics include bioethics, end of life decision-making, environmental ethics, and racism and genocide. In addition, students will use ethical decision-making frameworks in discussing and analyzing case studies.

  3. Weekend College: Second Year

    Fourth Term

    Code Course Name Credit Hours
    Total Credits 8
    OcT 111 Introduction to Occupational Therapy 3

    3 credit hours (Fall) 

    An overview of the domain and scope of occupational therapy practice, the intervention process, and the roles and functions of the occupational therapy assistant in current health care and rehabilitation environments. Lectures cover the history, philosophy, language, theoretical frames of reference, ethics and organizational structures of the profession. The contribution of one’s “occupations” in promoting health and wellness will be explored through readings, discussion and clinical observations in a variety of service delivery options. The student will have several opportunities to practice observation skills, interpersonal communication skills and professional behaviors, while expanding his/her knowledge of occupational therapy.

    OcT 112 Occupational Therapy Skills and Application I 2

    2 credit hours (Fall) 

    Selected activities will be used in this laboratory practicum to teach occupational task analysis, to grade, modify and adapt activities. Students will use a variety of tools and materials, use the teaching/learning process to engage peers in new learning, and consider safety issues and precautions relevant to patient populations and given activities. The assistive technology unit will allow each student to demonstrate competency in computer literacy through learning activities as they develop computer skills for personal and professional use. 

    Corequisites: OcT 111–114; AnP 105, 107

    OcT 115 Occupational Therapy in General/Medical Practice 3

    3 credit hours (Fall) 

    A human disease course that focuses on medical terminology, selected medical conditions, diseases, and functions of each bodily system. While the focus is on the disease process, medical diagnosis and treatment, the rationale for referral to occupational therapy and an introduction to recommended treatment techniques, precautions and prognosis for treating specific diseases/disabilities will be incorporated. Assignments will include medical terminology quizzes, article reviews and a disease-related term paper. 

    Corequisites: OcT 111 and 112 and AnP 105, 107 or consent of instructor

    Fifth Term

    Code Course Name Credit Hours
    Total Credits 9
    OcT 113 Growth and Development 3

    3 credit hours (Spring)

    Lectures will cover the normal physical, cognitive and psychosocial developmental milestones from conception to death. Current health issues and lifestyle trends will be addressed as they impact an individual's necessary and chosen occupations across the life span. Topics will include issues pertinent to specific age groups, including learning disabilities, eating disorders, substance abuse and problems of the elderly. 

    Prerequisite: OcT 111, 112, 115; AnP 105, 107

    OcT 114 Daily Living Skills 3

    3 credit hours (Spring) 

    The knowledge and skills necessary to provide therapy to improve clients' functional levels and maximize ability to engage in chosen occupations as related to daily life will be developed through lecture and laboratory participation. The use of adaptive equipment and methods, assessment of self care, joint movement and strength, body mechanics, transfer techniques, and the use of mobility devices (wheelchairs, walkers, canes) as well as related treatment precautions, terminology, professional documentation, and an introduction to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) will be included. 

    Prerequisites: OcT 111, 112, 115; AnP 105, 107

    OcT 116 Occupational Therapy Skills and Application II 2

    2 credit hours (Spring) 

    Building on the general concepts taught in OcT 112, a variety of expressive, cognitive and sensorimotor media will be covered by lecture and in laboratory experiences.The occupations of play, leisure and social participation, across the life span and for various cultures, will be explored. Emphasis will be placed on group dynamics, adaptive play and leisure activities for various age groups. Students will have opportunities to practice planning and leadership skills that guide group leisure activities during labs and then apply these skills in community-based settings. 

    Prerequisites: OcT 111, 112

    OcT 117 Fieldwork I 1

    1 credit hour (Spring)

    A two-week, full-time day, supervised experience that immediately follows completion of second semester occupational therapy courses. Students will be assigned to occupational therapy practice settings to participate in the therapeutic process. Assignments are designed to help the students gain an awareness of the services provided in the assigned setting, giving each student the opportunity to actively apply the knowledge and skills gained in the first year OTA courses as they work with clients and other health care staff.  

    Prerequisites: OcT 111-116; AnP 105, 107

    Sixth Term

    Code Course Name Credit Hours
    Total Credits 7
    OcT 118 Occupational Therapy Skills and Application III 1

    1 credit hour (Summer-Fall) 

    A community-based learning course that allows students to apply previous and concurrent learning to real-life practical situations. Utilizing task analysis, group process and group dynamics, the students will engage individuals, groups and populations in selected occupations. Students will have opportunities to plan and lead occupation-based activities in settings such as assistive living facilities, adult day programs and group homes. 

    Prerequisites: OcT 111-116

    OcT 119 Kinesiology 1

    1 credit hour (Spring-Summer)

    The musculoskeletal system, human movement, posture and body mechanics will be studied in lecture and laboratory. Case studies and movement analysis will be used to help the student apply kinesiology principles to occupational therapy treatment techniques. 

    Prerequisites: AnP 105, 107

    OcT 211 Management Procedures 2

    2 credit hours (Summer-Fall) 

    The official documents of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), professional journals, and websites are utilized to explore what guides and drives occupational therapy practice. This course is presented as a hybrid course using distance learning methods and face-to-face classroom instruction/discussion.The goal is to reinforce communication skills and computer competency as the student studies professional issues, including roles and functions, organizational and administrative principles, clinical reasoning, supervision,
    reimbursement mechanisms and professional development. The credentialing processes to meet professional and legal criteria to practice are also covered. 

    Prerequisites: OcT 111-116

    OcT 213 Occupational Therapy in Developmental Disabilities Practice 3

    3 credit hours (Summer-Fall) 

    The student is introduced to conditions that interrupt the normal growth and development sequence. Lectures will cover etiology, signs and symptoms of various diagnoses, and the related occupational therapy theory, frames of reference, and treatment methods and techniques. Laboratory sessions stress hands-on learning designed to help the student develop the skills necessary to provide occupational therapy treatments in early childhood school-based programs, and in community-based programs from infancy through adulthood. 

    Prerequisites: OcT 111-116; AnP 105-108; Psy 100

  4. Weekend College: Third Year

    Seventh Term

    Code Course Name Credit Hours
    Total Credits 7
    OcT 214 Occupational Therapy in Physical Dysfunction Practice 3

    3 credit hours (Fall) 

    Lectures and clinical presentations are used to teach medical, neurological and orthopedic conditions that result in physical, cognitive and/or sensory dysfunction. The application of occupational therapy principles and techniques will be reinforced and practiced during laboratory sessions. Case studies, role playing, guest lecturers, and clinical field trips will be used to present disabling conditions and occupational therapy treatment interventions. 

    Prerequisites: OcT 111-116; AnP 105-108

    OcT 215 Occupational Therapy in Psychosocial Dysfunction Practice 4

    4 credit hours (Fall) 

    The theory and application of occupational therapy principles and techniques in the treatment of individuals with psychosocial dysfunction are presented in lectures and laboratory sessions. Students will have opportunities to examine their own perceptions of mental illness, to learn about the history of the treatment of the mentally ill, and the diagnostic characteristics of psychological and behavioral disorders frequently seen in occupational therapy. Group dynamics, frames of references, and community and social services available for individuals with a mental illness will be covered. Emphasis will be on the occupational therapy assistant’s role in assessment, treatment planning, treatment interventions and documentation. Interpersonal skills, group leadership and interviewing skills are practiced through role-playing and community-based experiences. 

    Prerequisites: OcT 111-116; Psy 100, 205

    Eighth Term

    Code Course Name Credit Hours
    Total Credits 14
    OcT 216 Fieldwork II – Psychosocial Dysfunction 3-6

    3-6 credit hours (Spring)

    A supervised clinical practicum and continued study in psychosocial settings, such as traditional psychiatric hospitals and community-based mental health centers.

    Prerequisite: OcT 215

    OcT 217 Fieldwork II – Physical Dysfunction 3-6

    3-6 credit hours (Spring)

    A supervised clinical practicum and continued study in a physical disability setting, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers and nursing homes.

    Prerequisite: OcT 214

    OcT 218 Fieldwork II – Developmental Disabilities 3-6

    3-6 credit hours (Spring)

    A supervised clinical practicum and continued study in a developmental disability setting, including developmental centers, preschools and school-based programs.

    Prerequisite: OcT 213

    OcT 219 Fieldwork – Other 3

    3-6 credit hours (Spring)

    A supervised clinical practicum in a nontraditional setting or emerging area of practice. These opportunities are growing and may provide an appropriate placement for students who have had previous occupational therapy-related life experiences. The approval of the Academic Fieldwork Coordinator is required. 

    Prerequisites: Two of the following OcT 213, OcT 214 or OcT 215

    OcT 230 Professional Issues in Occupational Therapy 2

    2 credit hours (Spring) 

    An interactive, distance learning course that utilizes computer-based discussions and dialog about assigned and student-selected topics that accompany the Level II Fieldwork courses. The assignments will facilitate transition from the student role to the clinician role, as the students are encouraged to further explore current issues that impact on practice. Students will be expected to expand their knowledge and understanding of topics that were introduced in previous occupational therapy course work, discuss potential research topics raised by patient issues identified during the fieldwork experiences, plan an activity to promote occupational therapy, and develop a plan for continued education as they prepare to enter the workforce as occupational therapy assistants. Information about graduation, the National Certification Examination, professional and legal credentialing and job placement will conclude this course in a face-to-face seminar following the completion of Fieldwork II. 

    Prerequisites: OcT 111-215  Corequisites: OcT 216-219