Occupational Therapy seeks to improve the independence and quality of life for those who have been disabled by illness, injury, aging or birth accident. Graduates of the Rockland program are prepared at the technical level to enter the occupational therapy profession. They may go directly into practice in hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and day treatment settings. They may also continue their education in a four-year program. Possible areas of study include biology, psychology, teaching, gerontology or occupational therapy.
Occupational therapy requires discipline and empathy.
To graduate, students must have a minimum passing grade of C in all courses in the curriculum. Fieldwork requires that students be available full-time during the day for a period of four months. OTA students must complete Level II fieldwork within 18 months following completion of academic preparation. The Rockland Occupational Therapy program has its laboratory and classrooms at the Spring Valley Extension Center. New York State requires licensure in order to practice.