2025-2026 Graduate Catalog

OTDP - Occupational Therapy

OTDP 6111 Core Foundations of OT Practice

This course examines the historical foundations, philosophical base, core values, and code of ethics of the profession. Occupation-based models of practice and the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework (OTPF) are examined with a focus on analysis of the domain of occupational therapy. Structured learning experiences facilitate professional development and the transition to professional roles. This course is delivered online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities.

Credits

3

OTDP 6112 Functional Anatomy

The course provides an in-depth exploration of human anatomy with a focus on its relevance to occupational therapy. Students will learn to identify and understand key body structures and functions, and examine how these elements impact occupational performance. Students will gain a holistic understanding of how anatomical knowledge informs assessment, intervention planning, and client-centered care. The course will also address the impact of anatomical impairments on daily activities and occupational roles, ensuring students are equipped to apply their anatomical knowledge effectively in practice settings. The course is delivered online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities.

Credits

2

OTDP 6113 Theoretical Foundations in OT

This course introduces the core theories, models, and frames of reference that guide occupational therapy practice, emphasizing the development of professional reasoning to connect evidence and theory with client-centered care. Students learn to apply theoretical concepts throughout the OT process—including evaluation, intervention planning, outcome measurement, and discharge planning—while adapting interventions to meet client needs. The course also explores emerging practice areas, social and contextual influences, occupational justice, and global diversity issues. Through integrated learning, students gain a strong foundation for delivering theory-informed and equitable occupational therapy services. The course is delivered online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities.

Credits

2

OTDP 6114 Human Development and Occupational Performance

This course examines occupational performance across the lifespan by exploring physical, social-emotional, behavioral, and cognitive development, as well as environmental and contextual factors that influence performance. Typical and atypical changes in normative life tasks and occupational roles in relationship to environment and culture are discussed. The course is delivered online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities.

Credits

2

OTDP 6115 Foundations of Neuroscience and Occupational Performance

This course introduces the neuroscientific foundations that underlie human occupational performance. Students explore contemporary concepts of brain function with emphasis on sensory, perceptual, motor, and cognitive processes that support engagement in daily activities. Through theoretical exploration and applied analysis, learners examine how neurological conditions influence occupational participation and inform the occupational therapy process. The course is delivered online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities.

Credits

2

OTDP 6116 Kinesiology and Occupational Performance

This course provides fundamental knowledge of the structure/function of human movement and their relationship to each other. Course content applies knowledge of human anatomy to occupational performance and includes assessments related to palpation, muscle testing, and goniometry with a focus on analyzing the impact of dysfunction on occupational performance. The course is delivered online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities.

Credits

2

OTDP 6221 Occupational Engagement and Well-Being

This course examines the principles of health promotion and wellness as they relate to supporting meaningful occupational engagement for groups and populations. Students explore complementary and alternative interventions within the scope of occupational therapy practice and consider their role in enhancing participation and well-being. Through applied learning, students gain skills to design wellness-focused approaches that promote sustainable, healthy occupational performance. The course is delivered online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities.

Credits

2

OTDP 6222 Psychosocial and Community-based OT Practice

This course introduces students to historical and contemporary models that guide the occupational therapy process in psychosocial and community-based practice. Learners examine the evolution of client care and the current landscape of service delivery across these settings. Through applied learning, students develop an understanding of the OT practitioner’s role in promoting occupational participation, mental health, and community well-being. The course is delivered online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities.

Credits

3

OTDP 6223 Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation OT Practice

This course provides an in-depth exploration of musculoskeletal rehabilitation within the scope of occupational therapy practice. Students will examine the etiology, common clinical presentations, and evidence-based interventions for musculoskeletal conditions that impact occupational performance. Emphasis is placed on assessing client factors, including muscle function, range of motion, joint integrity and mobility, sensation, pain, edema, and wound status, and interpreting these findings in relation to occupational performance and participation. The course is delivered online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities.

Credits

2

OTDP 6224 Physical Rehabilitation OT Practice

This course focuses on the application of the OT process with clients experiencing physical impairments through the lens of occupation-based, evidence-informed occupational therapy practice. Emphasis is placed on analyzing how physical impairments influence occupational performance, participation, and well-being, and on selecting appropriate intervention approaches and strategies. Learners will explore occupation-based treatment methods commonly used in physical rehabilitation practice settings. The course is delivered online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities.

Credits

3

OTDP 6225 Orthotics, Prosthetics, and Modalities in OT Practice

This course provides the theoretical and evidence-based foundations for selecting and applying physical agent modalities, instrument-assisted techniques, and splinting within the scope of occupational therapy practice and in accordance with varying state regulations. Students will examine how these modalities influence client factors, performance skills, and occupational performance, and will integrate the OTPF, demonstrating aligned professional reasoning to support safe and effective occupation-informed, client-centered care. The course is delivered online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities.

Credits

2

OTDP 6231 Neurorehabilitation OT Practice

This course explores occupation-based theories and evidence-informed approaches used in the evaluation and care of clients whose neurological functioning affects occupational performance. Learners will examine relevant client factors, apply occupation-centered evaluation processes, and develop professional reasoning skills to guide client-centered planning across varied practice contexts. Structured learning experiences focus on interpreting evaluation findings, integrating evidence, and understanding the dynamic relationship between neurological function, contextual influences, and participation in meaningful occupations. The course is delivered online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities.

Credits

2

OTDP 6232 Assistive and Rehabilitative Technology in OT Practice

This course introduces technological interventions, including assistive (AT) and rehabilitative technologies (RT), within occupational therapy practice. Learners develop critical analysis skills to determine the appropriate use of AT and RT to support occupational performance. Content includes foundational frameworks, assessment considerations, and principles of design, adaptation, and monitoring of technology solutions. Students apply evidence-informed reasoning to evaluate technologies across the lifespan and explore emerging consulting roles for occupational therapists in technology-related practice. The course is delivered online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities.

Credits

2

OTDP 6233 Transition to OT Practice

This course synthesizes students’ knowledge and skills from prior practice courses to support their transition into occupational therapy practice. Students will deepen their understanding of models of practice and frames of reference, examining how theoretical perspectives guide clinical reasoning, decision-making, and occupational engagement across the lifespan. Students will critically apply theory to real-world scenarios, strengthening their ability to navigate complex practice environments and enter the profession with confidence. The course is delivered online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities.

Credits

2

OTDP 6234 Children and Youth OT Practice

This course highlights the occupational therapy process as it relates to supporting children, youth, and their support systems. Emphasis is placed on evaluating client factors that influence occupational performance and participation. Students will explore pediatric frames of reference and apply them to considerations of occupational needs within diverse, multicultural contexts, while maintaining alignment with the OTPF and a holistic, client-centered approach. The course is delivered online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities.

Credits

3

OTDP 6411 Research I: Foundations of Scholarship

This course introduces students to foundational research principles and evidence-based practice. Learners will gain an understanding of the steps involved in developing a research proposal, conducting a study, and disseminating findings. Students will practice formulating evidence-based practice questions, locating and evaluating peer-reviewed research, and building beginning competence in conducting literature reviews. The course is delivered online using both synchronous and asynchronous formats. The course is delivered online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities.

Credits

2

OTDP 6421 Research II: Methods, Design, and Analysis

This course includes an in-depth examination of research and its relationship to multiple areas of practice and practice assumptions. The student acquires an in-depth understanding of theory-based research, selecting appropriate methodology and units of analysis in the design of research, ways of evaluating practice, and approaches to analyzing data. This course includes analysis and synthesis of qualitative data. The emphasis is placed on planning and developing a research proposal, conducting a research study, and learning the skills necessary to effectively report research information. This course meets online via both synchronous and asynchronous methods.

Credits

2

OTDP 6511 Professional Development and Lifelong Learning

This course supports students in developing the habits, skills, and professional identity essential to success as occupational therapy practitioners. Emphasis is placed on self-reflection, goal-setting, professional communication, leadership, and engagement in lifelong learning. Students explore professional roles, ethical responsibilities, and strategies for continuous growth through mentorship, scholarship, and participation in professional organizations. By building a foundation for ongoing development, students learn to navigate evolving practice environments and sustain meaningful, evidence-informed careers in occupational therapy. The course is delivered online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities.

Credits

1

OTDP 6531 OT Education and Program Development

This course explores occupational therapy practice and evidence related to teaching and learning in community, clinical, and academic settings. Learners examine a range of teaching strategies informed by consumer needs, contextual factors, roles, task demands, available resources, and desired outcomes. The course also addresses the development and delivery of community and academic programs, as well as effective approaches to professional presentations and interprofessional education. The course is delivered online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities.

Credits

2

OTDP 6532 Healthcare Systems and Professional Reasoning

This course explores the structures and operational functions of health care systems that deliver occupational therapy and related services to individuals and organizations. Students learn to integrate knowledge of service delivery models and policies across current and emerging practice settings. Emphasis is placed on using theory and evidence-based reasoning to inform professional reasoning for both individuals and populations. The course is delivered online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities.

Credits

2

OTDP 6533 Leadership and Advocacy

This course explores the principles of leadership and advocacy that support individual growth, professional development, and the protection of the occupational therapy scope of practice. Students will integrate knowledge and skills to advocate for clients and programs, influence the legislative and regulatory environment, and strengthen their professional communication and collaboration abilities. The course also examines advocacy topics and strategies that highlight the vital role of occupational therapy in addressing societal needs. The course is delivered online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities.

Credits

3

OTDP 6611 Integrated Practice Immersion I

This is a lab-based course, the first in a series of six, designed to synthesize and apply learning across the OTD curriculum. Through hands-on activities, case-based scenarios, simulations, and guided practice, students integrate theoretical knowledge, practice skills, and professional behaviors to strengthen their competence and confidence in occupational therapy practice. This immersive learning experience emphasizes critical thinking, collaboration, and the application of evidence-informed decision-making across diverse practice contexts. By integrating coursework with practical skill development, students build a cohesive understanding of the OT process to drive impactful change in a dynamic, evolving world.

Credits

1.5

OTDP 6612 Integrated Practice Immersion II

This is a lab-based course, the second in a series of six, designed to synthesize and apply learning across the OTD curriculum. Through hands-on activities, case-based scenarios, simulations, and guided practice, students integrate theoretical knowledge, practice skills, and professional behaviors to strengthen their competence and confidence in occupational therapy practice. This immersive learning experience emphasizes critical thinking, collaboration, and the application of evidence-informed decision-making across diverse practice contexts. By integrating coursework with practical skill development, students build a cohesive understanding of the OT process to drive impactful change in a dynamic, evolving world.

Credits

1.5

OTDP 6621 Integrated Practice Immersion III

This is a lab-based course, the third in a series of six, designed to synthesize and apply learning across the OTD curriculum. Through hands-on activities, case-based scenarios, simulations, and guided practice, students integrate theoretical knowledge, practice skills, and professional behaviors to strengthen their competence and confidence in occupational therapy practice. This immersive learning experience emphasizes critical thinking, collaboration, and the application of evidence-informed decision-making across diverse practice contexts. By integrating coursework with practical skill development, students build a cohesive understanding of the OT process to drive impactful change in a dynamic, evolving world. This course includes an integrated Level I fieldwork experience focused on psychosocial and community-based practice.

Credits

1.5

OTDP 6622 Integrated Practice Immersion IV

This is a lab-based course, the fourth in a series of six, designed to synthesize and apply learning across the OTD curriculum. Through hands-on activities, case-based scenarios, simulations, and guided practice, students integrate theoretical knowledge, practice skills, and professional behaviors to strengthen their competence and confidence in occupational therapy practice. This immersive learning experience emphasizes critical thinking, collaboration, and the application of evidence-informed decision-making across diverse practice contexts. By integrating coursework with practical skill development, students build a cohesive understanding of the OT process to drive impactful change in a dynamic, evolving world. This course includes an integrated Level I fieldwork experience focused on physical rehabilitation practice.

Credits

1.5

OTDP 6631 Integrated Practice Immersion V

This is a lab-based course, the fifth in a series of six, designed to synthesize and apply learning across the OTD curriculum. Through hands-on activities, case-based scenarios, simulations, and guided practice, students integrate theoretical knowledge, practice skills, and professional behaviors to strengthen their competence and confidence in occupational therapy practice. This immersive learning experience emphasizes critical thinking, collaboration, and the application of evidence-informed decision-making across diverse practice contexts. By integrating coursework with practical skill development, students build a cohesive understanding of the OT process to drive impactful change in a dynamic, evolving world.

Credits

1.5

OTDP 6632 Integrated Practice Immersion VI

This is a lab-based course, the sixth in a series of six, designed to synthesize and apply learning across the OTD curriculum. Through hands-on activities, case-based scenarios, simulations, and guided practice, students integrate theoretical knowledge, practice skills, and professional behaviors to strengthen their competence and confidence in occupational therapy practice. This immersive learning experience emphasizes critical thinking, collaboration, and the application of evidence-informed decision-making across diverse practice contexts. By integrating coursework with practical skill development, students build a cohesive understanding of the OT process to drive impactful change in a dynamic, evolving world. This course includes an integrated Level I fieldwork experience focused on OT practice with children and youth.

Credits

1.5

OTDP 7311 Level IIA Fieldwork

This course is designed for the OTD student to develop entry level practice skills in the assigned practice area through application of theory and techniques learned in didactic curriculum. Level II fieldwork consists of two, 12-week, full-time (approximately 480 hours) experiences. Students are assigned to a supervised practice-based experience, in a traditional practice setting, where they apply their didactic and prior practice-based knowledge while gaining hands-on experience in the OT process across the lifespan. Students will actively demonstrate the ability to engage in ethical practice, apply critical reasoning, and demonstrate professionalism for entry-level practice.

Credits

12

OTDP 7321 Level IIB Fieldwork

This course is designed for the OTD student to develop entry level practice skills in the assigned practice area through application of theory and techniques learned in didactic curriculum. Level II fieldwork consists of two, 12-week, full-time (approximately 480 hours) experiences. Students are assigned to a supervised practice-based experience, in a traditional practice setting, where they apply their didactic and prior practice-based knowledge while gaining hands-on experience in the OT process across the lifespan. Students will actively demonstrate the ability to engage in ethical practice, apply critical reasoning, and demonstrate professionalism for entry-level practice.

Credits

12

OTDP 7411 Doctoral Mentorship I

This course is designed to assist the student in developing a scholarly doctoral capstone project. The doctoral capstone project development is facilitated by utilizing a thorough literature review, a needs assessment of the topic, development and confirmation of learning objectives unique to the project, and the identification of a plan for supervision to realize the course objectives. The course is delivered online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities.

Credits

2

OTDP 7421 Doctoral Mentorship II

This course is designed to assist the student in developing a scholarly doctoral capstone project. The focus of this course is on the methods and procedures unique to the capstone project. This is facilitated using a proposal for the implementation and evaluation using a collaborative and reflective effort on issues related to occupational therapy practice/research. A poster presentation of the doctoral capstone proposal for peer and faculty review is the culmination of this course. The course is delivered online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities.

Credits

2

OTDP 7521 Professional Competencies and Board Preparation

This course synthesizes program learning in preparation for the licensure examination and corresponding state requirements to practice. Students will critically analyze entry-level professional competencies for occupational therapists, including certification and licensure requirements, as well as expectations for ongoing professional development. The course includes a professional self-assessment to identify growth opportunities. The course is delivered online through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities.

Credits

1

OTDP 7531 Doctoral Capstone Experience

This course facilitates an in-depth experience in occupational therapy practice which may include clinical skills, research skills, administration, program development and evaluation, policy development, advocacy, education, and leadership. This course promotes synthesis of professional knowledge and skills through a mentored experiential placement consistent with the interest of the student, under the guidance of a subject matter expert and faculty advisor. The experience enhances the student’s professional abilities allowing them to acquire advanced knowledge in the chosen area. This course meets via synchronous and asynchronous methods and includes completion of on-site hours as identified in the student’s experiential learning plan.

Credits

14

OTDP 7532 Doctoral Capstone Project

This course is designed to assist the student in implementing a scholarly doctoral capstone project. The focus of this course is on data collection, data analysis, and/or program evaluation including results and evaluation. The culmination of this course is the dissemination of the project results by a publication or professional presentation. This course meets online via both synchronous and asynchronous methods and may include presence at a face-to-face presentation of the scholarly work.

Credits

2