Occupational Therapy (MS), 3-Year

Occupational therapy helps individuals regain and build skills that are important for their health, well-being, safety, and daily living.

Overview and Distinctions

Overview

As an occupational therapist, you'll work with people of all ages who have various physical, developmental, social or emotional challenges. You will help them develop the skills to lead independent, productive and satisfying lives.

D'Youville's master of science degree program includes courses in occupational therapy theory and practice, six months of supervised fieldwork, and research.

Upon graduation from our ACOTE-accredited program, you'll be prepared to take the National Certification Examination for Occupational Therapists.

Why Choose D'Youville?

Receive individual attention from dedicated faculty mentors and clinicians at the forefront of their field.
Studies show that teamwork across clinical specialties improves patient outcomes. D'Youville's unique interdisciplinary education lab offers the opportunity for you to practice treating patients (played by actors) alongside a team of students from 7 other healthcare majors at D'Youville — all under the supervision of a skilled instructor.
Learn in classes, labs, and seminars sized for effective teaching and mentoring.
Gain practical experience through our strong focus on clinical field experience. D'Youville has developed relationships with 300 clinical fieldwork sites in a wide array of settings, facilities, and treatment protocols.
Join a degree program with consistently high career placement rates.
Our students' certification exam scores consistently meet or exceed the national average.
Eligible OT students can apply to the Alpha Rho Chapter of Pi Theta Epsilon, a National Honor Society for Occupational Therapists and Students. Our Chapter is active and hosts a fall and spring event each year.

Curriculum

Occupational Therapy
Degree: M.S. OT

For the Major Degree:

Course Number	Course Name	Credits
OT 501	OT Process & Theoretical Foundations I This course is an introduction to the profession of occupational therapy and the occupational therapy process. An historical perspective of the OT profession’s development and the theoretical bases, its professional ethics and regulations, and the role of the occupational therapist in society are covered. An introduction to the roles of occupational therapy personnel and how, as professionals, the code of ethics and professional credentials relate to practice, is presented. Students will be introduced to the theory, philosophy, and research that guide practice. Current and potential environments for OT practice will be discussed. Prerequisites: None	2.0
OT 506	Occupational Development I This course consists of a study of normal occupational, neuromuscular, motor, sensory, perceptual, cognitive and psychosocial development from prenatal through adolescence. It includes analysis of occupation as a facilitator and marker of human development. An in-depth exploration of the occupational therapy practice framework, domain and process is provided. The lab includes observation of developmental markers and task analysis of developmentally appropriate occupations. Prerequisites: None	4.0
OT 509	Medical & Social Conditions I This course provides an overview of selected medical and social conditions that affect engagement in occupation in childhood and adolescence. Topics include selected developmental, musculoskeletal, mental health conditions and disabilities, and social conditions that affect development, such as child abuse/ neglect, poverty and educational level. Prerequisites: None	2.0
OT 510	Medical & Social Condition II This course provides an overview of selected medical and social conditions that affect engagement in occupation for adults and older adults. Topics include selected neurological, cardiopulmonary, medical, and psychosocial conditions and disabilities. End-of-life issues are addressed. Social conditions such as unemployment, family structure and elder abuse are discussed. The impact of environmental conditions on health is also addressed. Prerequisites: None	2.0
OT 512	Occupational Development II This course includes a study of normal occupational, physical, cognitive, psychosocial and neuromuscular development from young adulthood to senescence. It emphasizes occupational choice, role performance and analysis of occupation as a facilitator and marker of human development. The lab includes analysis of developmentally appropriate occupations, application of teaching learning principles, and general safety and wellness promoting behaviors. [3 hour lecture, 2 hour lab]. Prerequisites: OT-506	4.0
OT 513	Psychosocial Level I Fieldwork This course is a Level I fieldwork experience that is intergral to and consistent with the sequence, depth, focus and scope of content in the curriculum design of the program. It is a part-time experience consisting of a minimum of 25 hours, which will take place in a setting that serves one or more of the various needs of individuals and requires a focus on psychological and social factors that influence engagement in occupation for individuals across the lifespan. Prerequisites: OT-514 OT-521	1.0
OT 514	Interpersonal Skills This course is a study of selected interpersonal communication theories and skills that are the foundation of effective professional relationships and therapeutic use of self. It includes discussion, skill building and role playing with critiquing. [1 hour lecture, 2 hour lab]. Prerequisites: None	2.0
OT 515	OT Delivery Systems This course is an examination of delivery models in which occupational therapists function. The health care system will be included, as will the educational system, the social system and the community. Examples of OT programs will be presented within each system of delivery and delivery model that affects OT practice. Traditional and non-traditional models of delivery of OT services will be described. [2 hour lecture]. Prerequisites: None	2.0
OT 517	Group Process This course is a study of selected group process theories and skills that are the foundation of effective group relationships, therapeutic use of self, and group leadership. This course includes discussion, skill building, and role playing with critiquing. [1 hour lecture, 2 hour lab]. Prerequisites: None	2.0
OT 519	Functional Anatomy This course includes a study of human anatomy with emphasis on the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. It integrates human anatomy with analysis of movement including measurement of action, movement within a task and biomechanics. The course includes lab and lecture. The lab includes gross anatomy prosections, CD-ROM, recitation and experiential kinesiology. [3 hour lecture, 4 hour lab]. Prerequisites: OT-519LF and OT-519LG	5.0
OT 520	Neuroscience for Rehabilitation This course is a study of the anatomy and physiology of the nervous system, neurological factors underlying dysfunction and occupational therapy approaches to treatment. It integrates neuroanatomy and physiology with movement, sensation, cognition, perception and psychological function. Selected practice models addressing psychosocial, pediatric and adult physical disabilities will be studied. Course includes lecture and lab. Lab and recitation include neuroanatomy models, neurophysiology CD-ROM, recitation, guided practice on selected therapy techniques and treatment planning based on case studies. [4 hour lecture, 3 hour lab, 1 hour recitation]. Prerequisites: None	5.0
OT 521	Fieldwork Seminar I This seminar is designed to involve students in the analysis and preparation for professional practice, to introduce students to the fieldwork process, and to prepare them for fieldwork selection. [1hour per week]. Prerequisites: None	0.0
OT 523	Pediatric & Adolescent Level I Fieldwork Prerequisites: OT-501 OT-509 OT-510 OT-514 OT-512 OT-520, OT-525 OT-527	1.0
OT 525	OT Process & Theoretical Foundations II II This course is an introduction to the theories, philosophies and research that guide practice in OT. Pediatric (referring to both children and adolescents) practice environments will be described and pediatric models will be studied. [2 hour seminar]. Prerequisites: OT-501 OT-520	2.0
OT 527	OT Methods of Evaluation & Documentation I This course is an introduction to the principles and techniques of OT evaluation and documentation. The evaluation process, types of assessments, and the interpretation and documentation of evaluation data pertinent to pediatric practice will be included. [1 hour lecture, 2 hour lab]. Prerequisites: OT-501 OT-509 OT-510 OT-512 OT-514, OT-525	2.0
OT 529	Child & Adolescent Intervention This course is an application of OT concepts and processes to prevent and remediate occupational role dysfunction in individuals from infancy through adolescence. It includes exploration and application of selected therapeutic methods, strategies, and techniques. The laboratory includes guidance and practice in treatment methods. Level I fieldwork experience with children or adolescents is included. [3 hour lecture, 2 hour lab, level I fieldwork]. Prerequisites: OT-501 OT-509 OT-510 OT-512 OT-520 OT-525 OT-527	4.0
OT 530	Adult & Geriatric Level I Fieldwork Prerequisites: OT-529, OT-633 OT-634 OT-635	1.0
OT 632	Fieldwork Seminar II This seminar is designed to prepare students for fieldwork experiences and responsibilities. Personal and professional behaviors required on fieldwork are discussed. Strategies for success in fieldwork are offered, and preparation/ arrangements for fieldwork will be finalized. [1 hour per week]. Prerequisites: OT-521	0.0
OT 633	OT Methods of Evaluation & Documentation II This course is a continuation of OT 527 and offers an in-depth study of the evaluation and documentation principles and procedures used by occupational therapists. The evaluation process, types of assessments, and the interpretation and documentation of evaluation data pertinentto occupational therapy practice with adults and elders will be studied. [1 hour lecture, 2 hour lab]. Prerequisites: OT-527	2.0
OT 634	Adult and Geriatric Intervention This course is an integrated theory and practice course examining OT models and techniques for prevention and remediation of role dysfunction and maintenance of competence and adaptation in individuals from adulthood through senescence. Includes exploration of related research, introductory and advanced therapeutic assessments, and techniques. Laboratory includes guidance and practice in the implementation of assessment and treatment methods. Level I fieldwork experience with adults or elders included. [2 hour lecture, 3 hour lab, level I fieldwork]. Prerequisites: OT-520, OT-633 OT-635	4.0
OT 635	OT Process & Theoretical Foundation III This course is a continuation of the study of the theories, philosophies, and research that guide occupational therapy practice. Adult and geriatric practice environments and practice models will be studied. [2 hour seminar]. Prerequisites: OT-425 or OT-525	2.0
OT 640	OT Clinical Fieldwork I This course allows an in-depth Level I fieldwork experience that is integral to and consistent with the sequence, depth, focus and scope of content in the curriculum design of the program. Level I fieldwork can take place in a variety of traditional or emerging practice areas that are consistent with curriculum design and in which supervision will be provided by a currently licensed or credentialed OT, who may or may not be on-site. Each Level I fieldwork course is generally a full-time experience but options can vary from one placement to four, and in some instances be part-time. Prerequisites: 5 year BS/MS OT students take OT-215 OT-427 OT-429 OT-432 OT-433 OT-434 OT-635 Stand alone MS OT students take OT-515 OT-527 OT-529 OT-632 OT-633 OT-634 OT-635	4.0
OT 641	OT Clinical Fieldwork II This course allows an in-depth Level II fieldwork experience that is integral to and consistent with the sequence, depth, focus and scope of content in the curriculum design of the program. Level II fieldwork can take place in a variety of traditional or emerging practice areas that are consistent with curriculum design and in which supervision will be provided by a currently licensed or credentialed OT, who may or may not be on-site. Each Level II fieldwork course is generally a full-time experience but options can vary from one placement to four, and in some instances be part-time. Prerequisites: 5 year BS/MS OT students take OT-215 OT-427 OT-429 OT-432 OT-433 OT-434 OT-635 Standalone MS OT students take OT-515 OT-527 OT-529 OT-632 OT-633 OT-634 OT-635	4.0
OT 644	Management of OT Services I This course is an advanced, in depth analysis of the knowledge and practical skills required for the application of the principles of management within the various systems in which the provision of occupational therapy services to individuals and organizations takes place. Students will participate in interactive distance learning activities on the Internet and perform independent learning activities and assignments while on level II fieldwork. Students will be in contact via electronic communication with faculty and fellow classmates and engage in group discussions and project activity related to course material. (1 hours Internet activities per week) Prerequisites: None	1.0
OT 645	Management of OT Services II This course is a continuation of an advanced, in depth analysis of the knowledge and practical skills required for the application of the principles of management within the various systems in which the provision of occupational therapy services to individuals and organizations takes place. Students will participate in interactive distance learning activities on the Internet and perform independent learning activities and assignments while on level II fieldwork. Students will be in contact via electronic communication with faculty and fellow classmates and engage in group discussions and project activity related to course material. (3 hours Internet activities per week) Prerequisites: OT-641	2.0
OT 689	Professional Issues This course involves critical analysis of current professional issues specific to the delivery of services provided by occupational therapists functioning in a variety of systems and roles. Regulatory agencies, legal concerns, reimbursement, specialization, grantsmanship, validation of theory, and development of philosophy are included as important issues. [2 hour seminar]. Prerequisites: OT-640 or OT-641	2.0
OT 690	Community Practice An advanced practicum in a community-or education-based setting, for the purpose of exploring new, nontraditional, or specialty applications of occupational therapy knowledge and skills. Requirements are based on a contract negotiated between the student and the preceptor, and approved by the course coordinator. Individuals with a variety of professional backgrounds and education levels may serve as preceptors. [Practicum (variable 5-15 hours per week) and 1 hour seminar per week] Prerequisites: OT-640 or OT-641	2.0
Total		64

Research Components

Course Number	Course Name	Credits
OT 524	Research Seminar This seminar introduces students to the entire thesis/project process required to complete the master's degree in OT. Students will learn how to search for and appraise literature pertinent to a topic suitable for OT research and evidence-based practice. [3 hour seminar]. Prerequisites: OT-101 or OT-501	3.0
OT 602	Research Methods in Occupational Therapy This course will assist the student in developing an understanding of the research process. Emphasis will be placed on the occupational therapist as a producer and consumer of research. Students will undertake a conceptual review of research designs and methods relevant to the profession. [3 hour seminar]. Prerequisites: College level applied statistics course.	3.0
*OT 630	Continued Research Advisement Provides continued faculty guidance to complete either the thesis or research project. Students must register for their research director's section. Prerequisites: Ot-629	1.0
OT 693	Research Advisement-Project This course guides students through the process for development of the Critically Appraised Topic (CAT) Research Project. Students will develop a clinical question, then use a systematic review process to identify relevant research literature, perform a critical appraisal and synthesis of the best available evidence to develop and publically present their CAT research. Prerequisites: OT-524, OT-602	3.0
Total		9-10

* as needed

Elective:

Course Number	Course Name	Credits
OT 605	Clinical Fieldwork III Prerequisites: None	0.0
Total		0

Total required for M.S.: 73-74

Careers

Our program prepares you for general occupational therapy practice.

An Occupational Therapist's Role

Occupational therapists work in a variety of healthcare settings, including: acute hospital, rehabilitation, and orthopedic settings.

Other major employers of occupational therapists are hospitals, offices of other health practitioners (including offices of occupational therapists), public and private educational services, and nursing care facilities.

Driver rehabilitation, training for the elderly, and ergonomic consulting are emerging practice areas for occupational therapy.

Career Outlook

Physical therapists are in demand in nearly every healthcare setting and are poised to take on an even larger role. Employment of occupational therapists is projected to grow 27 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations. For more information about the job outlook for occupational therapists, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.

Occupational therapists with specialized knowledge in a treatment area also will have increased job prospects.

The largest number of occupational therapist jobs was in ambulatory healthcare services, which employed about 29 percent of occupational therapists.

Most states, including New York, require licensure to practice. State licensure is typically based on the results of the NBCOT certification exam, but must be applied for separately in the state in which you plan to practice.

Fieldwork Education

The Department of Occupational Therapy has clinical fieldwork agreements with over 400 hospitals, school systems, rehabilitation centers, mental health sites, nursing facilities, and community-based centers in select states across the U.S.

The goal of fieldwork education is to prepare the students to be well-rounded, entry-level practitioners. Three levels of fieldwork education are integrated into the occupational therapy curriculum:

Site Visits

Visits to healthcare agencies are part of certain entry-level courses. These visits orient you to a variety of services provided in the local area, focusing on the context in which occupational therapy services are delivered or could be provided.

Level I Fieldwork

Experiences during the academic phase of the program enable students to apply classroom learning in the clinical setting. These experiences are associated with specific intervention courses and place students in various healthcare arenas with a variety of consumers/patients.

Level II Fieldwork

Consists of two full-time 12-week clinical training experiences, (Part-time options are available); two internships provide students with the opportunity to treat a wide range of disabilities and age groups. Emphasis is on applying knowledge through in-depth activities, tasks, and the responsibility for delivering healthcare to patients. Clinical experiences may include acute hospital settings, inpatient psychiatric settings, rehabilitation centers, day treatment centers, nursing homes, school systems, developmental centers, and community health initiatives.

Community Practice

An advanced placement in a community setting or educational environment allows you to explore non-traditional or specialty applications of occupational therapy. Community Practice occurs in the graduate year following Level II fieldwork.

Learn More

Visit Western NY OT Fieldwork Consortium to learn more about fieldwork opportunities. Current students can also review D'Youville Occupational Therapy Fieldwork for information and resources specific to D'Youville programs.

Admission Requirements

Admission to a the occupational therapy program is based on the qualifications of each individual student. A GPA of 3.0 (equivalent to a B) or better is the minimum requirement for acceptance into the program.

In addition, applicants to the master's in occupational therapy must
present the following:

Completion of a baccalaureate degree prior to the start of course work. Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended are required for admissions consideration.
Two letters of recommendation - one academic and one professional (or two academic). References from OT observations will not be accepted.
Evidence of capability to succeed in a graduate program, as shown by a cumulative undergraduate G.P.A. of at least a 3.0 (based on a 4.0 system).
Completion of the following prerequisite courses with a grade of C or better prior to the start of the first semester of course work. Courses must be at least three credits and pass/fail grades are not accepted:
- General or Developmental Psychology (must cover life span development)
- Abnormal Psychology
- Sociology or Social Anthropology
- Applied Statistics
- Human Anatomy and Physiology (I and II with labs or six to eight credits of a combination of other biology courses that focus on anatomy and physiology such as Comparative Primate Anatomy, Comparative Mammalian Anatomy and Physiology, Human Anatomy and Human Physiology, Anatomy and Physiology I and II, or their equivalents, at least one of which is a lab course, as determined by the registrar and the department.

OTCAS: The Occupational Therapy Department at D'Youville College participates in the Occupational Therapist Centralized Application Service, known as OTCAS. Applicants to the master's in occupational therapy program must apply online through the OTCAS application. To apply to D'Youville OT program visit OTCAS at www.otcas.org and select D'Youville College as one of your designations.

Application Deadline: applications must be complete and verified by OTCAS prior to November 30th, for fall semester start to be considered for admission.

Upon Admission

Admitted students are required to take a writing skills assessment. If the results
indicate the need for remediation, students must follow through with
recommendations. In addition, the faculty expects students to have basic computer skills for word processing, e-mail and online database and library searches. Students who lack any of these abilities should enroll in tutorials offered by D'Youville College or other institutions.

Occupational Therapy Master’s Degree at D’Youville

Employment of occupational therapists is projected to grow 27 percent from 2014 to 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Donna Brzykcy, MS, OTR/L, a clinical assistant professor at D’Youville, explains why D’Youville’s ACOTE-accredited three-year professional program leading to a Master of Science (MS) degree graduate program is the ideal choice for students.