Master of Science in Occupational Therapy
OT 501 Foundations of Occupational Therapy 4 credits
This course reviews the history of OT practice and explores the current use of philosophies, theories, models and frames of reference. Students are introduced to the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework and explore the profession's tenets, ethics, and professional roles as applied to varied practice settings. Regional and global public health care needs are reviewed and students are educated on the application of therapeutic use of self and critical reasoning as applied to evidence-based, client/family-centered care for diverse populations. Students who are in good standing with all 1st semester coursework to date will be assigned a Level I Fieldwork experience later in the semester. This experience involves a 35-40 hour rotation, within a practice setting, focused on applying the knowledge and skills being learned in the 1st semester. Emphasis is placed on gaining a clear understanding of ethical practice and learning about the various disciplines and team roles. Students will analyze practice environments for application of OT practice as they are exposed to organizational management, direct care situations, and documentation processes.
Prerequisite: Admission into Allen College's Master of Science in Occupational Therapy Program.
OT 502 Health & Wellness 2 credits
This course focuses on a life span analysis of societal and public health principles of illness and wellness. Content includes a critical review of current evidence for assessing physiological, psychosocial, cognitive and behavioral concepts and health care trends and the implications for occupational engagement and OT practice. Global health care trends and public health needs are explored. Cultural influences of health, access to care, health care disparity, and the impact of illness are investigated.
Prerequisite: Admission into Allen College's Master of Science in Occupational Therapy Program.
OT 503 Musculoskeletal Anatomy 3 credits
This course includes examination of the anatomical structures of the human body. Emphasis is placed on the musculoskeletal system of those regions of the body primarily addressed in OT practice. Virtual dissection of body systems and musculoskeletal reviews are analyzed.
Prerequisite: Admission into Allen College's Master of Science in Occupational Therapy Program.
OT 504 Applied Kinesiology 3 credits
This course includes a comprehensive study of human movement. An application of the biomechanical frame of reference to evaluate force, torque, range of motion, strength, endurance, sensation, and edema is included. Laboratory experiences include the analysis of movements and performances of functional tasks/occupations.
Prerequisite: Admission into Allen College's Master of Science in Occupational Therapy Program.
OT 509 Patient Care Skills 2 credits
This course engages the student in the development of professional behaviors, basic patient care skills, and initial competencies associated with OT practice. Students will have opportunities to learn skills for ethical and professional behavior; observation and assessment; development of rapport, client-centered care; and therapeutic use of self.
Prerequisite: Admission into Allen College's Master of Science in Occupational Therapy Program.
OT 511 Psychosocial Foundations & OT Practice Applications 4 credits
This course focuses on the psychosocial foundation of OT practice and emphasizes the knowledge and skills necessary for application of psychosocial intervention across all arenas of care. Initial content will focus on reviewing mental health conditions and exploring the impact of mental health on individuals, cultures, and societies. Students will search for and analyze current evidence and have opportunities to apply theories, frameworks, and clinical reasoning skills in assessment and intervention. Emphasis will be placed on developing professional skills and competencies in assessment and intervention used in psychosocial practice. Students in good standing with all 2nd semester coursework to date will be assigned a 35-40 hour rotation within a practice setting focused on applying the psychosocial/neurological knowledge and skills. Students will analyze the impact of psychosocial health on occupational engagement and participation within various contexts. Cultural acceptance of mental health issues will be explored. Opportunities to expand current knowledge of organizational management, direct care situations, and documentation will be provided. Emphasis is again placed on analyzing practice environments for application of OT practice. This Level I experience is designed to enrich didactic coursework through directed observation and participation in selected aspects of the OT process.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all 1st semester OT graduate courses.
OT 512 Neuroscience Foundations for OT Practice 3 credits
This course focuses on neuroanatomy and neurophysiology, and the current neuroscience evidence, as it applies to occupational therapy assessment and intervention. Additional topics include, but are not limited to, neuroscience as it relates to sensory function, behavior, cognition, and motor control. Application of current neuro-rehabilitation models will also be included.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all 1st semester OT graduate courses.
OT 513 Integrating Cultural & Global Perspectives 3 credits
This course critically examines the use of reasoning and decision-making in assessment and intervention, with varied cultures, across the life span. Opportunities to explore processes for addressing ethical and cultural issues, managing language barriers, and improving access to care will be provided. Demographic health care needs of various cultures will be analyzed and assessments and treatments will be reviewed for global application. Case based scenarios will be used to apply logical thinking models to effectively address complex health care needs.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all 1st semester OT graduate courses.
OT 518 Research I: Practice Scholarship 2 credits
This course is an introduction to graduate research. Learners examine the quality of evidence to guide OT practice decisions. The course includes the use of search engines and relevant resources. The scholarship process includes the critique of the quality of evidence related to the developing a research project.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all 1st semester OT graduate courses.
OT 521 Contemporary Service Delivery & Community Outreach 3 credits
This course focuses on evaluating the evidence and designing programs for occupational therapy services in community and emerging practice settings. Content includes developing needs assessments, designing programs, identifying potential funding resources, and establishing benchmarks. Students will complete a needs assessment for an existing organization, design a program, and submit a proposal.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all 2nd semester OT graduate courses.
OT 522 Assistive Technology & Design 2 credits
This course focuses on the design and use of assistive technologies, adaptations, and environmental modifications to enhance performance, safety, and independence. Content includes opportunities for evaluating the evidence, fabrication, and adaptation. Personal environments, community environments, and practice settings are analyzed for accessibility, necessary modifications, and compliance with legal requirements.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all 2nd semester OT graduate courses.
OT 523 OT Practice with Aging Populations 4 credits
This course involves critical examination of current evidence regarding health care needs and interventions for older adults. Students will explore the continuum of current care services for the older adult population. Services include promotion of wellness and illness models of intervention, productive aging, leisure adaptations, and neuro cognition. Topics will cover wellness programs, services in adult day care centers, assistive living environments, long term care, home health, hospice, and community based programs. Ethics, legislation, liability, reimbursement, advocacy, and documentation using Medicare/Medicaid guidelines are included. Students will develop professional competencies in the assessments and interventions. Evidence based assessments and interventions for sensorimotor, behavioral, cognition, social, and older adult care are included. Students in good standing with all 3rd semester coursework to date will also be assigned to a Level I Fieldwork experience in a setting that addresses the needs of older adults. This experience will serve to enrich didactic coursework through directed observation and participation and allow for analysis of practice environments for application of OT practice.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all 2nd semester OT graduate courses.
OT 528 Research II: Design & Methodologies 2 credits
This course involves advanced exploration of a research topic. Learning experiences include a critical review of related evidence, research methods, instrumentation, study designs, and analysis of results as appropriate for the selected research. Tasks will include critical examination of qualitative and quantitative designs; and methods of analyses and their application in health care studies. Working with a research mentor, and within institutional IRB guidelines, the students will work in small groups to implement an approved research project.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all 2nd semester OT graduate courses.
OT 601 OT Clinical Practice with Children & Adolescent Populations 4 credits
Course content includes opportunities for evidence-based assessment and intervention of children and youth (0-21 years). Content prepares the student for the application of critical reasoning within a variety of settings that offer services for this population. Experiences serve to synthesize the roles of occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants, and other health care providers in this arena. Topics include professional standards of practice, ethics, advocacy, outcomes assessment, ethics, liability, documentation, and reimbursement of services. Experiences also serve to critically analyze the influence of culture in the provision of care. Emphasis is placed development of professional competencies in the assessment and intervention. Evidence-based occupational therapy assessment and care for children and youth is synthesized in this course. Students in good standing with all 4th semester coursework to date will be assigned a Level I Fieldwork experience in a pediatric/school system setting, which serves to enrich the didactic coursework through directed observation and participation in selected aspects of the OT process. Emphasis will be placed on analyzing practice environments for application of OT practice within communities, schools, and practice settings for children and youth.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all 3rd semester OT graduate courses.
OT 602 OT School System Practice 4 credits
This course involves review of evidence-based services and critical application of the role of the occupational therapist in a school-based setting. Emphasis is placed on understanding the roles of all team members, including the student, parents, guardians, counselors, and teachers. Regulatory guidelines, IEPs, equipment, transitional living needs, and accessibility issues are explored. Professional leadership, advocacy, ethics, supervision and the profession's ability to enhance educational outcomes are included. Relevant OT models of practice appropriate for the population are synthesized. Coursework will focus on development of professional competencies in the assessment and intervention. Evidence-based occupational therapy assessment and care for children and youth is synthesized in this course. Students in good standing with all 4th semester coursework to date will be assigned a Level I Fieldwork experience in a pediatric/school system setting, which serves to enrich the didactic coursework through directed observation and participation in selected aspects of the OT process. Emphasis will be placed on analyzing practice environments for application of OT practice within communities, schools, and practice settings for children and youth.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all 3rd semester OT graduate courses.
OT 603 Dynamic Practice & Emerging Healthcare Trends 2 credits
Course content covers professional development in the knowledge, values, and skills necessary for practice in emerging practice arenas, such as low vision, ergonomics, driving rehabilitation, primary care, etc. Exploration of the current evidence for provision of these services and the role of the OT in private, community, industrial, and physician practice settings are included. The course emphasizes on-going life-long learning and competencies. The learner is challenged to analyze emerging practice trends and the importance of developing the needed knowledge, skills, and values to prepare for evolving global, national, and regional health care imperative.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all 3rd semester OT graduate courses.
OT 608 Research III: Application & Data Collection 2 credits
With the support of the research advisor, the course advances the development of the assigned research project and extends the learners' comprehension of the profession's focus on scholarship for practice. Students will employ chosen methods of analysis to examine data collected in their study.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all 3rd semester OT graduate courses.
OT 611 OT Practice with Adult Populations 4 credits
Content of this course focuses on OT's role with adult clients in collaboratively determine the needs, evidence based assessments, goals, interventions, and discharge plans to address impairments, injuries, or illnesses. Students will apply models of practice and frames of reference in addressing orthopedic, cardiovascular/pulmonary, neurological, and general health care needs. The roles of an occupational therapist, OTA, and other health care providers will be discussed. Information concerning professional standards of practice, ethics, advocacy, outcomes assessment, ethics, liability, documentation, and reimbursement of services is synthesized. Students will have the opportunity to develop evidence-based, professional competencies in evaluation and intervention and analyze the influence of culture in care. Students in good standing with all 5th semester coursework to date will be assigned a fieldwork experience. This Level I experience will allow learners to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize the information and identify client needs, select the appropriate assessments, and establish client centered goals and interventions. Emphasis will be placed on the roles of occupational therapist, occupational therapy assistant, and other health providers and documentation, reimbursement, ethics, and liability will be critically examined.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all 4th semester OT graduate courses.
OT 612 OT Modalities & Modifications 2 credits
This course involves the application of adjunctive methods to enhance occupational performance. Case-based application of physical agent modalities is included. Current knowledge regarding contraindications and safety procedures is reviewed. Prosthetic training and the design, fabrication, and care of orthotics are explored. Client education in the care and usage of orthoses and prostheses is included. Education concerning professional roles, documentation, reimbursement, safety, and liability is also provided.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all 4th semester OT graduate courses.
OT 613 OT Practice Management & Leadership 3 credits
This course focuses on advocacy and leadership skills and encourages the student to develop a professional practice that includes a mission, vision, strategic and business plans, applicable policies and procedures, a job description, performance benchmarks and appraisal methods. Related interviews, supervision, leadership models, and appraisal methods are included. Trends in health care systems, management principles, promotion, marketing, liability, consultation, advocacy, and consulting roles are also explored. Development of a 5 year professional development plan including goals for advanced practice certifications and fieldwork education are developed. Ethical scenarios as potential practice liability issues are analyzed. Students will also critically analyze the professional entry competencies for practice, including certification and licensure responsibilities.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all 4th semester OT graduate courses.
OT 618 Research IV: Analysis & Dissemination 2 credits
In this course students will complete the research project (a culminating experience) and deliver a professional presentation of the study. Students will also develop an article for future publication.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all 4th semester OT graduate courses.
OT 630 Fieldwork II A 10 credits
This Level II Fieldwork experience is provided to strengthen the didactic learning experiences of the curriculum. Students' professional service delivery of client services under supervision is evaluated. Experiences are selected for the quality and compatibility with the institution's curriculum design. Application of the didactic and Level I fieldwork knowledge, skills, and values are enhanced with client-centered services delivered with professional mentorship and role modeling. Opportunities for discussion and problem-solving (as needed) of fieldwork experiences (including such topics as supervision, evidence use in practice, ethics, methods, and professional roles) will be provided. Discussions may occur on campus or on-line as appropriate. Focus is on developing the necessary entry-level skills for practice.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all 5th semester OT graduate courses.
OT 670 Fieldwork II B 10 credits
This Level II Fieldwork experience is provided to strengthen the didactic learning experiences of the curriculum. Students' professional service delivery of client services under supervision is evaluated. Experiences are selected for the quality and compatibility with the institution's curriculum design. Application of the didactic and Level I fieldwork knowledge, skills, and values are enhanced with client-centered services with professional mentorship and role modeling. Opportunities for discussion and problem-solving (as needed) of fieldwork experiences (including such topics as supervision, evidence use in practice, ethics, methods, and professional roles) will be provided. Discussions may occur on campus or on-line as appropriate. Focus is on developing the necessary entry-level skills for practice.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of all 6th semester OT graduate courses.
Doctor of Occupational Therapy
OT 675 Foundations of Occupational Therapy 3 credits (3 cr. lecture)
This is a foundational course providing introductory knowledge and understanding of the profession of occupational therapy. This course reviews the history of OT practice and explores the current development and use of philosophies, theories, models and frames of reference. Students are introduced to foundational documents of the profession including the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework, Standards of Practice and the Code of Ethics, then learn to apply these documents to professional roles in varied practice settings. Students will be introduced to the basic components of occupational therapy including practice areas/settings, occupational science, therapeutic use of self, OT process, documentation and goal setting.
OT 676 Applied Anatomy and Occupational Movement 4 credits (1 cr. lecture, 3 cr. lab)
This course includes the examination of anatomical structures of the human body with emphasis on the musculoskeletal system and its application to occupational therapy practice. Students engage in the comprehensive study of human movement as it relates to occupational performance. An overview of the skeletal, muscular and articular systems is provided as they apply to human biomechanics. Interactive laboratory experiences provide opportunities for hands-on student learning and skill development in palpation, assessment and the analysis of movement and posture during functional tasks.
OT 677 Functional Neuroscience 2 credits (1 cr. lecture, 1 cr. lab)
This course focuses on the foundations of neuroscience as it applies to occupation and occupational performance. An overview of neuroanatomy and neurophysiology are provided. Students learn about neurological disorders and the principles of neuroscience and develop clinical-reasoning skills in relationship to neurological screening and evaluation methods. Topics include, but are not limited to, neuroscience as it relates to sensory function, perception, learning and behavior, cognition and motor control and disorders of the nervous system. Laboratory activities introduce neurological screening and evaluation methods as well as commonly used assessment measures and tools. Students begin to view individuals with neurological conditions and impairment through a client-centered, occupation-based and participation-focused lens.
OT 678 Practice Skills in OT 2 credits (2 cr. lab)
This course engages the student in the development of patient care skills and competencies associated with occupational therapy practice. Students will have opportunities to learn skills for ethical and professional behavior; development of rapport; client-centered care; and therapeutic use of self. Students will demonstrate skills by developing occupational profiles, hands-on patient/client care skills and introductory documentation skills.
OT 679 Evidence-Based Practice in Occupational Therapy 2 credits (2 cr. lecture)
This course is an introduction to doctorate-level scholarship to provide students with the knowledge and skills to become evidence-based practitioners. Students will learn the process of evidence-based practice including the use of search engines and relevant resources and the critique of evidence to guide OT practice decisions. Students will begin developing the skills for practice scholarship including formulating a scholarly practice question, pursuing relevant literature and available research/evidence, critiquing the literature and translation of this research into a practice setting. The learner will develop skills to participate in scholarly activities that evaluate professional practice and guide service delivery decisions and professional decision-making.
OT 680 Doctoral Professionalism I: Professional Development Skills 2 credits (2 cr. lecture)
This course is designed to facilitate the transition to graduate school, introduce students to program experiential learning concepts/policies (fieldwork, community service, service learning, capstone, etc.) and begin the journey to individual professional development for students. Topics include student success and wellness, the student professional development and advising processes, fieldwork placement policies/procedures, professional behaviors/expectations, doctoral-level communication (reading, writing, health literacy and marketing) and clinical/practice reasoning. This course is the first of a series of five professionalism courses to provide a foundation for skills required to become occupational therapists committed to service, scholarship, lifelong learning, evidence-based, client-centered and occupation-focused care.
OT 681 Psychosocial Foundations and OT Practice Applications 4 credits (2 cr. lecture, 2 cr. lab)
This course focuses on the psychosocial foundation of OT practice and emphasizes the knowledge and skills necessary for the application of psychosocial intervention across the lifespan throughout all practice settings. Students will analyze the impact of psychosocial health on occupational engagement and participation within various contexts. Initial content will focus on reviewing mental health conditions and exploring the impact of mental health on individuals, groups and populations. Students will analyze current evidence and apply models, theories, frameworks and clinical reasoning skills in assessment and intervention of psychosocial concepts. Emphasis will be placed on developing professional skills and competencies in assessment and intervention used in psychosocial practice across all OT settings. Students will develop skills as leaders of individual and group interactions and learn to effectively manage complex behaviors. Access to care issues, social stigma of mental illness, documentation guidelines, application of the DSM-V and avenues for reimbursement for mental health intervention are analyzed.
OT 682 Analysis of Occupation 3 credits (2 cr. lecture, 1 cr. lab)
This course focuses on the analysis of occupations, occupational demands and occupational performance within varied personal, temporal, physical, social, cultural and virtual contexts. Students in the course develop skills in activity analysis of occupations and how to plan, adapt and assess occupations for therapeutic use with individuals, groups and populations.
OT 683 Occupation Through Conditions 3 credits (3 cr. lecture)
This foundational course introduces health concepts at individual, group and population levels, linking health conditions to client-centered care across the lifespan, while connecting clinical conditions to the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework. This course focuses on how conditions affect occupations, occupational participation and performance across the lifespan. The risk factors, signs/symptoms, medical interventions and precautions of conditions are examined. Students explore clinical conditions relevant to occupational therapy practice considering the contexts relative to the lives of individuals, families, groups and populations living with disorders/injuries. Students learn the process of researching a disorder unfamiliar to them.
OT 684 Wellness for Individuals, Communities and Populations 2 credits (2 cr. lecture)
This course explores the pivotal role of occupational therapy in promoting wellness and preventative care across individuals, groups, communities and populations. The course focuses on lifespan analysis of wellness concepts and integrates current evidence on physiological, psychosocial, cognitive and behavioral health trends to achieve optimal occupational performance. Key topics include societal health promotion, cultural influences on wellness, healthcare disparities and the implications for occupational engagement. Students will delve into global wellness trends and the transformative practices shaping the future of occupational therapy. The student learns how to promote health and wellness programs using contemporary occupational therapy and health behavior models.
OT 685 Practice Scholarship I: Design & Methodologies 2 credits (1 cr. lecture, 1 cr. lab)
This course involves an exploration of scholarly topics. Learning will include critical review of related evidence, research methods, instrumentation, study designs and analysis of results as appropriate for the selected research. Tasks will include critical examination of qualitative and quantitative designs and methods of analyses and their application in health care studies. Students will begin developing the skills for writing a scholarly proposal including formulating a research question, pursuing relevant literature and available research and defining a sample. Working with a research advisor, and within appropriate institutional IRB guidelines, the students will work to implement an approved scholarly project.
OT 686 Doctoral Professionalism II: Working with Persons, Groups, Populations & Contexts 2 credits (2 cr. lecture)
This course focuses on developing the professional skills to successfully work with individuals, groups and populations in a variety of contexts as an occupational therapist. Topics of study include theories and applications of group dynamics; patient/family/stakeholder education; collaboration with interdisciplinary and intradisciplinary teams; program development (development, implementation, evaluation); practice contexts/systems (medical, community, educational); and health, community, educational policy development. This course is the second of a series of five professionalism courses to provide a foundation for skills required to become occupational therapists committed to service, scholarship, lifelong learning, evidence-based, client-centered and occupation-focused care.
OT 690 OT Practice with Aging Populations 4 credits (2 cr. lecture, 2 cr. lab)
This course focuses on the occupational therapist’s role with the older adult population. The course builds on previous learning of age-related clinical and neurological conditions and explores the wellness-illness continuum for the older adult. Students incorporate appropriate models of practice and frames of reference for client and family-centered care planning with an emphasis on occupational roles changing through the lifespan. Students will develop clinical reasoning skills to consider context, complete evaluations, analyze results and effectively plan for discharge. Occupation-based interventions that are safe, client-centered, culturally relevant and evidence-based will be explored to promote improved occupational performance for the older adult. Students will develop effective documentation skills and collaborative interactions with the healthcare team.
OT 691 Assistive Technology & Design 2 credits (2 cr. lab)
This course focuses on the design and use of assistive technologies, adaptations and environmental modifications to enhance occupational participation, safety and independence. This client-centered service delivery process includes evaluating the need of the person within a context, fitting or customizing the device, providing education to promote participation in desired occupations and assessing outcomes. Content includes opportunities for evaluating the evidence, fabrication and adaptation. Personal environments, community environments and practice settings are analyzed for accessibility, ergonomics and modifications. Students will practice collaborative interprofessional interactions and communicate the necessity of recommended technology.
OT 692 Integrating Cultural & Global Perspectives for OT Practice 2 credits (2 cr. lecture)
This course emphasizes cultural humility, cultural competencies and the contextual nuances of reasoning and decision-making in assessment and intervention across diverse cultures and the lifespan for effective client-centered care. Students will explore cultural differences and identities to navigate ethical dilemmas, language barriers and enhance access to care. The demographic health care needs of various cultures will be analyzed, alongside assessments and treatments for global applicability. The course requires the student to integrate occupational based theories, models of practice and frames of references for the critical reasoning decisions needed for accomplishing evidenced based client and family centered care from a global perspective. Students will examine the influence of culture and determine how to use professional skills to provide collaborative, optimal care.
OT 693 Scholarly Practice II: Application and Data Collection 2 credits (2 cr. lab)
With the support of the scholarly advisor, the course advances the development of the assigned scholarship project and extends the learners’ comprehension of the profession’s focus on scholarship for practice. The course implements the scholarship process using evidence-based resources and methods to critically analyze research questions and related outcomes. Qualitative and/or quantitative designs are used to analyze the reliability, validity and usefulness to the examined population and the profession. The course’s research and scholarship skills are designed to promote lifelong learning and the use of evidence in making practice decisions, provide professional outcomes and build skills in advocacy efforts for clients and the OT profession. Learners complete data collection and initial analysis of data.
OT 702 Contemporary Service Delivery & Community Outreach 3 credits (lecture, lab)
This course builds on foundational knowledge for addressing community-based and contemporary practice models across the life span. Learners assess community needs to develop a needs assessment utilizing cultural awareness, values and skills of an occupational therapy professional to develop occupation and participation focused evidence-based programs and outreach events for community stakeholders. The design, development, delivery and evaluation of a community-based program/setting will be developed based on the determined needs demonstrating client centered intervention for individuals, groups and populations.
OT 700 OT Clinical Practice with Children & Adolescent Populations 4 credits (2 cr. lecture, 2 cr. lab)
Course content is focused on evidence-based assessment and intervention of children and youth (0-21 years). Content prepares the student for the application of clinical reasoning within a variety of settings/practice arenas that offer services for children and youth. Client-centered care appropriate for the client’s needs and cultural context are examined with the lens of pediatric developmental theories, evidence-based knowledge, OT models and frames of reference. Interventions that promote the client’s occupations are utilized. Coursework experiences emphasize interprofessional and intraprofessional interactions within pediatric practice to provide comprehensive, evidence-based, culturally sensitive, client centered care.
OT 701 Early Intervention and School Systems Practice 3 credits (2 cr. lecture, 1 cr. lab)
This course involves an examination of evidence-based services and critical application of the role of the occupational therapist in early intervention and school-based settings. Regulatory guidelines, documentation, equipment, transitional living needs, accessibility issues and the profession’s ability to enhance educational outcomes are explored. Current evidence-based practice, professional theories and models of practice are used to evaluate and provide occupation-based intervention strategies with varied clients and context(s) within the early intervention and school systems settings. The role of the OT as a team member is explored through the lens of family-centered care with a focus on services delivered through interdisciplinary collaboration, coaching, natural environments and routines-based interventions.
OT 703 Practice Scholarship III: Analysis & Dissemination 2 credits (2 cr. lab)
In this course, students will complete a scholarly project and disseminate the results as appropriate. The course prepares the OT graduate to critical review existing body of knowledge but also prepares the graduate to evaluate practice-based outcomes and contribute to the advancement of the OT profession’s existing evidence.
OT 704 Doctoral Professionalism III: Management, Administration, & Entrepreneurship 2 credits (2 cr. lecture)
This course addresses management, administration, business and entrepreneurship concepts in occupational therapy to prepare students for roles in community-based, educational and health care systems/settings. Management and administration topics include conflict management and organizational change. This course provides the learner with the skills needed to create and develop an evidence-based, occupational therapy private practice to serve individuals, groups and populations to meet their occupational needs. Students will delineate the factors and contextual considerations when considering entrepreneurship including funding sources and financial realities. This course is the third of a series of five professionalism courses to provide a foundation for skills required to become occupational therapists committed to service, scholarship, lifelong learning, evidence-based, client-centered and occupation-focused care.
OT 732 Evolving Practice & Emerging Trends 2 credits (1 cr. lecture, 1 cr. lab)
This course focuses on exploring current evidence for the promotion of occupational participation, health and wellness in current and future emerging practice areas. The learner is challenged to analyze needs, emerging practice trends and the importance of developing the needed knowledge and skills for evolving service provision. Students will communicate the unique role of occupational therapists in the provision of client-centered care for persons, groups and populations within evolving settings and service delivery models.
OT 730 OT Practice with Adult Populations 5 credits (3 cr. lecture, 2 cr. lab)
The course focuses on the occupational therapist's role with the adult population. Students will develop clinical reasoning skills to consider context, complete evaluations, analyze results and effectively plan for discharge. Occupation-based evaluation and interventions that are safe, client-centered, culturally relevant and evidence-based will be explored to promote improved occupational performance. Students will develop effective documentation skills and collaborative interactions with the healthcare team.
OT 731 Upper Extremity Assessment and Intervention 2 credits (1 cr. lecture, 1 cr. lab)
Students gain further knowledge and skills in evaluation, intervention and management of individuals with upper extremity dysfunction as it relates to occupational performance and participation. Fundamentals of evidence-based practice and clinical reasoning are emphasized. This course also focuses on the biomechanical principles, design, fabrication, application, fit, use, care and patient education involved with orthotics. Education concerning professional roles, documentation, reimbursement and safety is provided.
OT 760 OT Modalities 2 credits (1 cr. lecture, 1 cr. lab)
Clinical reasoning and hands-on skills are developed for the evidence-based selection of physical agent modalities to improve occupational performance. Students learn safe application including an understanding of indications, contraindications and precautions. Education is provided on the documentation, ethics, liability, reimbursement and professional roles and responsibilities associated with the use of physical agent modalities in occupational therapy practice.
OT 734 Doctoral Professionalism IV: Leadership and Advocacy 2 credits (2 lecture)
This course focuses on advocacy and leadership skills and encourages the student to develop a professional practice that includes a mission, vision, strategic and business plans, applicable policies and procedures, a job description, performance benchmarks and appraisal methods. This course presents an overview of policy and advocacy in practice that influences occupational therapy. Learners will examine policies influencing OT in the past, present and future. Opportunities to advocate for occupational therapy’s role in addressing societal issues explore how to create an advocacy campaign and may include activities including attending Hill Day events and/or developing white papers to initiate change. This course is the fourth of a series of five professionalism courses to provide a foundation for skills required to become occupational therapists committed to service, scholarship, lifelong learning, evidence-based, client-centered and occupation-focused care.
OT 735 Capstone Planning 2 credits (1 cr. lecture, 1 cr. lab)
This course is the first series of five capstone courses to design, develop, implement, evaluate and disseminate the experience and project. Planning and preliminary development of the capstone are emphasized in this course. Students will explore capstone ideas related to their professional interests and remaining methodologies, theoretical backgrounds and practical use for the capstone project. Students will explore the literature to develop and articulate the background, need and feasibility of the capstone project. Students will be assigned a faculty chair during this semester. Students will complete a needs assessment, preliminary literature review and present the proposed topic. At the end of the course, students will finalize selection of the site expert mentor & capstone site.
OT 733 Scholarship of Teaching and Learning in OT 2 credits (1 cr. lecture, 1 cr. lab)
This course examines the role of occupational therapists as academic educators from the perspectives of faculty, program director, dean, administrators, accreditor, professional organization and advocate. The course includes topics related to higher education, higher education institutions, health sciences education, accrediting bodies, learning theories and OT programs with a focus on student understanding all facets of OT education ranging from national influence on OT programs to the student level (curricular design, course development, teaching strategies and outcomes).
OT 761 Versatility in OT Practice 2 credits (1 cr. lecture, 1 cr. lab)
This course is designed to equip students with the advanced skills and insights needed to excel in dynamic and challenging occupational therapy environments. This course is integral to developing occupational therapy practitioners who are adept at evidence-based, client-centered care and capable of addressing diverse client needs through innovative practices. Students learn to navigate and address the unique needs of underserved communities, reinforcing their commitment to impactful service and ethical responsibility. By focusing on versatile practice and tailored interventions, the course enhances students' ability to deliver personalized care across various populations and settings.
OT 762 Doctoral Professionalism V: Transition to Practice 2 credits (1 cr. lecture, 1 cr. lab)
This course provides the knowledge and skills for successful transition from OT graduate education to the practice setting as a new OT. The student develops skills for professional practice that include designing a detailed professional development plan including exploration of specialty certifications, terminal degrees, level I and II fieldwork and the mentor/mentee relationship. Students will also critically analyze the professional entry competencies for practice, including certification and licensure responsibilities. This course is the last of a series of five professionalism courses to provide a foundation for skills required to become occupational therapists committed to service, scholarship, lifelong learning, evidence-based, client-centered and occupation-focused care.
OT 763 Capstone Development 2 credits (2 cr. lab)
Students will work to finalize documents related to the capstone project and experience, including creation of a planning calendar, revised initial planning document, updated evidence table, revised literature review, revised methodology, formalized needs assessment (phase I), evaluation plan and IRB submission as indicated. The student will collaborate with their faculty chair in OT 764 to ensure the plan meets the site requirements, capstone category and instructional requirements. This course is the second in a series of five capstone courses to design, develop, implement, evaluate and disseminate the experience and project. Comprehensive planning and development of the capstone is the focus of this course.
OT 764 Capstone Design 1 credits (1 cr. lab)
This course involves the design, develop, implement, evaluate and disseminate the experience and project. This course emphasizes the collaboration with individual faculty chairs to ensure a comprehensive design which fits the needs of the site, college, capstone category and methodology. As the third course of a five-course capstone sequence which is taken simultaneously as OT 763, students will collaborate with their faculty chair to ensure the literature review, needs assessment, methodology and evaluation plan meet requirements for site and capstone category.
OT 800 Fieldwork Experience (IIA) 6 credits (lab)
OT 801 Fieldwork Seminar 1 credit (lab)
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OT 830 Fieldwork Experience (IIB) 6 credits (lab)
831 Fieldwork Seminar 1 credit (lab)
The Level II Fieldwork experience is a vital component of Allen College’s curriculum, designed to shape competent, entry-level generalist clinicians. It builds upon and integrates the knowledge, skills and values acquired from both the didactic coursework and Level I fieldwork experiences, providing a comprehensive foundation for professional practice.
Under supervision, students will apply their skills in occupational therapy (OT) service delivery, with their performance evaluated to ensure it meets professional standards. Fieldwork sites are carefully chosen for their alignment with the institution’s curriculum and their ability to provide high-quality, client-centered experiences with attention placed on offering diverse experiences across the lifespan and within a variety of settings. Throughout their fieldwork experiences, students will participate in discussions and problem-solving sessions that include topics such as supervision, evidence-based practice, ethics and professional roles.
At Allen College, these experiences are a core component of the curriculum, chosen for their ability to provide comprehensive, hands-on application in delivering OT services. During this period, students are expected to:
- Apply purposeful and meaningful occupation and research, administration and management of OT services.
- Carry out professional OT service responsibilities under supervised leadership and role modeling.
- Utilize professional reasoning and reflective practice skills and transmit values and beliefs that are characteristic of ethical practice, professionalism and career responsibilities (2023 ACOTE Standards, 2024).
OT 860 Capstone Experience 7 credits (7 cr. lab)
In this course students will complete the residency experience and implement the capstone. At the end of the semester, students will submit a final capstone product, which is the culminating assignment in this course and the OTD curriculum. This course is the fourth in a series of five capstone courses to design, develop, implement, evaluate and disseminate the experience and project. This course is the experiential portion of the capstone and includes implementation of the project.
OT 861 Capstone Dissemination 1 credit (1 cr. lab)
In this course, students will collaborate with their faculty chair to ensure the final capstone deliverables and chosen community dissemination method meets site and capstone category requirements. Students will also collaborate with the capstone coordinator to arrange the completion of the dissemination process. This course is the final course in a series of five capstone courses to design, develop, implement, evaluate and disseminate the experience and project. Emphasis is placed on analysis of findings of the capstone, finalization of deliverables and creation of dissemination methods. Students will collaborate with their faculty chair for mentorship during this stage.