Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy assists people in participating in life activities and doing the things they wish to do (occupations). Occupational therapists collaborate with the individual to provide holistic and client-centered interventions, whether they are dealing with developmental, physical, mental health, social or educational concerns. Occupational therapists are creative practitioners that skillfully evaluate the individual and develop an intervention plan that addresses the unique needs of the person. 

The Division of Occupational Therapy, one of the five Divisions within the School of Allied Health Sciences, was established in 1989. The State of Florida, in its’ 1988-1993 strategic plan, identified as one of its critical problems in the rapidly growing State of Florida the need for an increased number of allied health practitioners. The Division, consistent with the mission of the University and the State of Florida, has conferred more than 200 baccalaureate degrees in occupational therapy. The last class of undergraduate students received their baccalaureate degrees in 2006. The Division has now transitioned to an entry-level master’s degree program from which the first student graduated in 2007.

 

 

More about Occupationoal Therapy

 

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Practitioners work with persons of all ages and cultural backgrounds whose independence has been impacted by physical and/or mental injury or illness, developmental or learning disabilities, or adverse environmental conditions. Occupational therapy services are provided in a variety of settings. Practitiioners use evidence-based research and exprience for best practice.

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The Student Occupational Therapy Association is a dynamic and fun way to meet with other students in occupational therapy and to be associated with the American Occupational Therapy Association

 

Occupational Therapy Programs

As part of learning how to assess and treat individuals who may need help performing their occupations, you will develop critical thinking and clinical skills, along with the ability to work with and listen to the needs of diverse patient populations.

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If you are interested in the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) program, keep in mind that you will need to engage in a two-step process to successfully complete your application, and you should be aware of additional requirements relating to our program.

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To earn a master's, you will need to participate in supervised fieldwork in both traditional and non-traditional settings, including general and psychiatric hospitals, rehabilitation centers, intermediate care facilities, nursing homes, individual’s homes, school systems, community centers and agencies, and private practice. After you earn your degree, you can take the national certification exam to become a licensed occupational therapist.

 

If you need a specific contact, browse a list of Division of Occupational Therapy faculty.