These media might include bathing, dressing, and feeding techniques to promote independence in self-care, and assistive devices, splints, and prosthetic appliances to facilitate functional mobility. Media for developing, maintaining, or restoring one's capacity for work and play might include woodworking, leather-work, ceramics, sports, recreation, and games. Occupational therapists work in all types of private nonprofit and public settings, including schools, acute-care hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and community health agencies. There are excellent opportunities for employment and advancement within the profession, and salaries are on par with other health professions that require a university degree. Students are prepared for the practice of occupational therapy by studying the physical, medical, and social sciences, in addition to the theory and techniques of the profession.
Classes begin in the summer immediately preceding the junior year.
Continuation in the program is contingent upon the successful completion of these two courses. Three additional academic semesters include learning experiences structured to integrate theory and practice. Students choose fieldwork sites by a lottery system and in consultation with the fieldwork coordinator. Additional fieldwork experiences in such specialized areas of practice as developmental disabilities and drug and alcohol abuse are available as electives. The department maintains clinical affiliation agreements with more than 200 health-care facilities throughout the United States for student placement.