JEFFREY BOSS, M.S., OTR/L, Program Director
JOHN CONNELLY, M.S., OTR/L, Fieldwork Coordinator
BERNADETTE HATTJAR, DrOT, OTR/L
ANITA HOTCHKISS, M.S., OTR
DAVID LEVAN, M.Ed., OTR
LYNNE OBERLE, M.S., OTR
The Occupational therapy program allows opportunities for in-depth study and field
practicum experiences with individuals of all ages who have limited capacity to perform in
their everyday lives. The goal of occupational therapy is to assist the individual to achieve the
maximum level of independent living through remediation of or adaptation to physical,
cognitive, perceptual or mental health impairments.
This program is designed to prepare students for career opportunities in occupational therapy.
There is a five-year, entry-level masters degree program, and a three year entry level masters
degree program for students who enter after obtaining a baccalaureate degree in another field.
Students in the five year program are awarded a baccalaureate degree in health sciences at the
end of their fourth year. Upon completion of their fifth year students are awarded a Master of
Science degree and are eligible to take the National Certification Examination. Students in the
three year program graduate with the Master of Science degree and are eligible to take the
National Certification Examination at the end of the three year program.
Two clinical fieldwork experiences are required during the summer and fall of the last year of
the program. Clinical fieldwork experiences include clinical sites outside of Erie. Students
must maintain a 3.00 QPA. Space may be available for transfer into the sophomore or junior
year for students who began their studies in other majors and for individuals who are
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants.
The Occupational Therapy Program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for
Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). Its graduates are therefore eligible to sit for the
national certification examination for the occupational therapist administered by the National
Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy. After successful completion of this exam, the
individual will be an Occupational Therapist, Registered (OTR). Most states require licensure
in order to practice; however, state license eligibility is usually based on the results of the
Certification Examination. For further information on accreditation, the address, and web
address telephone number for ACOTE are 4720 Montgomery Lane, P.O. Box 31220, Bethesda,
MD 20824-1220; (301) 652-2682; www.aota.org/nonmembers/area13/links/link13.asp.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS:
OCCT 201: Introduction to Occupational Therapy Process
3 credits
Development of occupational therapy as a profession; concepts of role acquisition and role
dysfunction, human competence and adaptation; use of human occupation as therapeutic
intervention, exploration of domains of practice of OT; scope of practice of health professionals;
health & wellness; healthcare delivery systems; disability; professional behaviors.
OCCT 205: Information Retrieval Techniques in Occupational Therapy
1 credit
This course will emphasize information literacy topics for occupational therapy students. It
will detail the use of the CINAHL, MEDLINE, and OTSearch databases, as well as covering
other important databases such as PsychInfo and ERIC. Web searching will also be covered,
with emphasis on judging the accuracy and motivations of authors. APA style will be
introduced, as well as OT related materials in the Nash Library.
OCCT 212: Occupational Role Acquisition
4 credits
Development across the life span with emphasis on skill acquisition. All aspects of development in
human and non-human environmental interaction will be considered including motor, sensory
integrative, cognitive, perceptual, social, cultural and religious. Emphasis will be placed on
development of performance components and competence in performance areas within a
temporal and environmental context. Multicultural factors relating to development of competence
will also be addressed. Lab will provide community experiences with different ages and cultures.
Prerequisite: OCCT 201 or PI
OCCT 300: Applied Statistical Analysis
3 credits
This course introduces the student to the fundamentals of applied statistical analysis, using
statistical software to perform multivariate analysis in addition to one and two variable
analysis. Emphasis is placed upon the ability to provide clear and accurate interpretations of
computer generated results.
OCCT 313: Occupational Science & Analysis
3 credits
Analysis of occupation as a life organizer. Development of observational skills, problem
solving approaches, the teaching-learning process, therapeutic use of self, and activity
analysis. Laboratory will provide experience in and analysis of selected tasks of work, self
care and play/leisure.
Prerequisite: OCCT 212
OCCT 399: Independent Study
1-3 credits, Fall, Spring, Summer
An independent study whose objectives are determined collaboratively between student and
instructor; designed to enrich a student's depth of study in a specific area.
OCCT 425: Structural Function of the Neuromusculoskeletal System
3 credits
The purpose of this course is to provide students with lecture material on the neuro-musculo-
skeletal system sufficient to prepare them for progression to junior level courses in the
program. The course will focus on the functional anatomy of the muscular, skeletal, nervous
and circulatory systems. It will concentrate on the function of these systems within the
context of volitional movement.
OCCT 426: Structural Function of the Neuromusculoskeletal System Lab
1 credit
Prerequisites: BIOL 108, BIOL 109
OCCT 441: Analysis of Human Movement
4 credits
Analysis of motor, sensory and motor learning components of human movement and their
applications in activities of work, self care and play/leisure. Influence on neurological,
biomechanical, human and non-human environments on human performance. Laboratory
will provide experience in analysis of activity and selected clinical assessment tools.
Prerequisites: PHYS 101, BIOL 110, BIOL 111, OCCT 313
OCCT 461: Theoretical Foundations of Occupational Therapy
3 credits
Development of philosophy and theory in occupational therapy. Examination of the
conceptual models which have shaped occupational therapy since its inception. Analysis of
current theories, models and frames of reference which shape practice. In-depth analysis of
the concepts underlying occupational behavior, occupational science and clinical reasoning.
Prerequisite: OCCT 313
OCCT 481: Therapeutic Intervention Process
3 credits
An introduction into the therapeutic intervention process across disability, age, the health
continuum, populations and systems; screening through referral with traditional populations;
organization of intervention in non-traditional areas; evaluation and treatment planning;
documentation and reimbursement; standardized and non-standardized tools; collaborative
intervention with clients/care-givers; obtaining adaptive equipment; appeal process; and
OTR/COTA collaboration.
Prerequisite: OCCT 313
OCCT 486: Occupational Therapy Medical Sciences
3 credits
Signs, symptoms, medical management and pharmacological management of general medical,
neurological, orthopedic and psychiatric conditions relevant to occupational therapy intervention.
Prerequisites: BIOL 110, BIOL 111
OCCT 490: Special Topics
1-3 credits
A course designed to provide in-depth study of a specific topic; objectives are determined on
a course by course basis relative to the expertise of the faculty, needs of the students or
relevance to a changing professional environment.
Prerequisite: Enrollment in OT; Specific pre-requisites are topic related.
GOOCT 505: Clinical Neuroscience
4 credits
An in-depth study of the structure and function of the central nervous system relative to
human behavior. Peripheral structures involved in sensorimotor function will be included.
Clinical conditions and case studies, including their influence on occupational performance
components and areas, will be utilized. Lab includes examination of brain specimens.
Prerequisites: BIOL 110, BIOL 111, OCCT 313 or PI
GOOCT 508: Neurorehabilitation Techniques
4 credits
Analysis of various theoretical approaches to the treatment of central nervous system
dysfunction throughout the life span. Topics will include neurodevelopmental, sensorimotor,
kinesiological, and sensory integrative approaches to motor dysfunction. Laboratory will
provide guided experiences in techniques, application to human occupations, clinical
reasoning, case analysis and selected clinical experiences. Current research regarding the
efficacy of the various theoretical approaches will be explored.
Prerequisites: OCCT 441, GOCCT 505, OCCT 486
GOOCT 509/510: Occupational Therapy Intervention: Psychosocial Dysfunction I & II
4/5 credits
An integrated theory and practice course examining Occupational Therapy models for
psychosocial treatment approaches based on the current research body of knowledge.
Development of interpersonal skills, group leadership skills, and therapeutic use of self. Areas
explored will include techniques for prevention, understanding group process dynamics,
remediation of role dysfunction and maintenance of competence and adaptations related to
psychosocial dysfunction within various cultures. The courses are composed of three sections;
lecture, laboratory exercises and a clinical fieldwork experience.
Prerequisites: PSYC 232, OCCT 313, OCCT 461, 481. Prerequisite to GOCCT 509, GOCCT 410
GOOCT 515/516: Occupational Therapy Intervention: Physical Disabilities I & II
4/5 credits
Analysis and adaptation of the human and non-human environments in response to role
dysfunction; architectural barriers, orthotics, prosthetics, wheelchair prescription and
management, adaptive equipment and assistive technology. Specific adult physical disabilities
including orthopedic, neurological and general medical conditions; prevention, assessment,
and treatment intervention; psychosocial aspects of physical dysfunction; and application of
clinical reasoning through case studies and review of relevant research. Level I fieldwork in
an adult Physical Disabilities setting included. Sessions will consist of lecture and lab hours
weekly. One credit is assigned to the fieldwork experience in GOCCT 516.
Prerequisites: OCCT 486, GOCCT 508, GOCCT 510; Prerequisite to GOCCT 516:
GOCCT 515
GOCCT 521/522: Occupational Therapy Intervention: Pediatrics and Developmental
Disabilities I & II
5/4 credits
Atypical development resulting in problems in role performance in children is emphasized.
Role acquisition, competence, adaptation, and dysfunction from birth through adolescence ion
the areas of sensory, motor, perceptual, cognitive, and play will be addressed. Providing OT in
a variety of settings and models, including educational, early intervention, and medical rehab
is included. Analyzing appropriate use of specific assessment and treatment techniques from
a range of theoretical frames of reference with guided practice through laboratory experiences
along with clinical reasoning through case studies will be included. Use of assistive
technology, adaptive seating, Level I fieldwork in a pediatric setting.
Prerequisite: OCCT 486, GOCCT 508; GOCCT 510; Prerequisite to GOCCT 522: GOCCT 521
GOCCT 530: Community-Based Intervention
3 credits
Therapeutic intervention with concentration on community based practice and populations;
special emphasis on the needs of the elderly; health/wellness programs; community centers;
homeless populations; and special considerations in home health.
Prerequisites: OCCT 486, GOCCT 508, GOCCT 510; Co-requisites: GOCCT 515, 521
GOCCT 550: The Research Process
6 credits
Using a comprehensive approach, this course is designed to stimulate student interest in the
research process, theory development, and translations of findings to practice in occupational
therapy. Students learn the components, principles and methods of scientific research to
become discerning consumers of research.
Prerequisites: OCCT 300, 461
GOCCT 590: Special Topics
1-3 credits
A course designed to provide in-depth study of a specific topic; objectives are determined on
a course by course basis relative to the expertise of the faculty, needs of the students or
relevance to a changing professional environment.
Prerequisite: Completion of all fourth year courses, PI
GOCCT 620: Leadership and Management in OT
3 credits
Supervision and management theory and techniques with research review and application;
role delineation; COTA and OTR collaborative intervention; quality assurance; program
development; financial management; management methods in current healthcare systems and
alternative work settings including funding resources; and developing independent small
businesses in alternative settings.
Prerequisites: GOCCT 660, GOCCT 661
GOCCT 630: Intervention Techniques for Gerontology
3 credits
This course will explore various evidence-based strategies for improving health and
functional independence of older adults. Students will be introduced to the various age-
related changes that occur in the cardiovascular, pulmonary, musculoskeletal, neuromuscular,
and information processing systems. Course content will be delivered primarily through
lecture, discussions, and article reviews. Case studies and interactive clinical activities will
allow students the opportunity to design and implement an occupational therapy screening,
evaluation, plan of care, and treatment for individuals with a variety of diagnoses commonly
encountered in the aging populations.
Prerequisites: GOCCT 510, GOCCT 515
GOCCT 640: Clinical Reasoning Seminar I
3 credits
Analysis of research of therapeutic intervention as an interpretative process. Application of
procedural, interactive, conditional and narrative reasoning to therapeutic intervention
through selected case analysis across disabilities and the life span.
Prerequisites: GOCCT 515, GOCCT 521; Co-requisites: GOCCT 516, 522, 530
GOCCT 650: Research Seminar
3 credits
This course involves the systematic writing of the research proposal and application of the
research process and methodologies as they apply to the field of occupational therapy. Focus is
on the methods of research design, with critical analysis of its components including collection,
analysis, and interpretation of data. Synthesizing the relationships of the problem, methodology,
hypothesis, and data analysis will be pivotal in the course. This course will culminate in the
production of an approved proposal which will be the basis of the student's completed thesis.
Prerequisite: GOCCT 550; Senior standing in the OT program
GOCCT 660/661: Fieldwork Experience I & II
8/8 credits
Six months full time clinical experience in two different occupational therapy settings;
supervised practice of therapeutic assessment and intervention techniques; students will gain
experience in a wide variety of clinical conditions and age ranges.
Prerequisite: Satisfactory completion of all academic requirements in the fourth year;
permission of faculty
GOCCT 710: Emerging Models of Practice
3 credits
This course will examine emerging models of practice in the field of OT as well as related job
opportunities. These will vary, based upon current healthcare systems, Occupational Therapy
theories, practice and service delivery models. In-depth exploration and understanding of
current health-care policies; social, demographic, and political issues driving the health-care
system; influences in delivery of services in OT. Informatics will be utilized as the system for
investigation of resources. New methods and settings in which to provide OT intervention
will be examined and applied in a local agency or organization. Participants will also evaluate
the effectiveness of these services and modify them as needed.
Prerequisites: GOCCT 660, GOCCT 661
GOCCT 725: Advanced Intervention: Theory and Techniques
3 credits
Emphasis is on advanced therapeutic intervention techniques and theories across age ranges.
Analysis and adaptation of the human and non-human environments in response to role
dysfunction; advanced modalities, refined handling techniques, advanced hand treatment,
assistive technology application, and complimentary and alternative therapies. Review of
current research in all areas of practice. Clinical reasoning through case studies.
Prerequisites: GOCCT 660, GOCCT 661
GOCCT 730: Professional Issues Seminar
3 credits
Critical analysis of current professional issues will be examined in this course. Topics will
include, but not be limited to: health care delivery systems, professional boundaries,
regulatory agencies, specialization, validation of theory; continuing professional competence;
contributions to the profession and society.
Prerequisites: GOCCT 660, GOCCT 661
GOCCT 740: Clinical Reasoning Seminar II
3 credits
Case studies will be analyzed in context of advanced clinical reasoning concepts and skills.
Prerequisites: GOCCT 660, GOCCT 661
GOCCT 750/751: Thesis I & II
1-3 credits
This course builds on GOCCT 650 by further development and completion of the group
research project. Systematic investigation of a research problem including gathering and
analyzing the data, synthesizing and discussing the information collected, and summarizing
the conclusions.
Prerequisite: GOCCT 650, approval of the thesis director
MS in Occupational Therapy Curriculum Requirements
FIRST YEAR
Fall
1 Leadership Process/LEAD 101
3 Intro to Occ Therapy/OCCT 201
3 College Composition/LENG 111
3 Intro to Psychology/PSYC 111
3 Hist of West & World/LHST 111
3 Intro Organic & Biochem/CHEM 102
1 Info Retrieval Techniques/OCCT 205
17
Spring
4 Occ Role Acquisition/OCCT 212
3 Crit Analysis & Comp/LENG 112
3 Individual/Culture/Soc/SOCI 120
3 Physics for Life Sci/PHYS 101
3 Intro to Philosophy/LPHI 131
16
SECOND YEAR
Fall
3 Occ Science & Analysis/OCCT 313
3 Fine Art Series/LFIN
3 Philosophy II Series/LPHI
3 Sacred Scripture/LTHE 121
3 Essentials of Anat & Phys I/BIOL 108
1 Essentials of Anat & Phys I Lab/BIOL 109
16
Spring
3 Theoretical Fund of OT/OCCT 461
3 Therapeutic Interv Proc/OCCT 481
3 Psychopathology/PSYC 232
3 Theology II Series/LTHE
3 Essentials of Anat & Phys II/BIOL 110
1 Essentials of Anat & Phys II Lab/BIOL 111
1 Neuromusculoskeletal Lab/BIOL 113
17
THIRD YEAR
Fall
4 Analysis of Human Move/OCCT 441
4 Clinical Neuroscience/GOCCT 505
4 OT Interven:Psychosocial I/GOCCT 509
3 Appl Statistical Analysis/OCCT 300
3 OT Medical Sci/OCCT 486
18
Spring
4 Neurorehab Tech/GOCCT 508
5 OT Interv: Psychosocial II/GOCCT 510
6 The Research Process/GOCCT 550
3 Literature Series/LENG
18
FOURTH YEAR
Fall
4 Interv:Physical Disabil I/GOCCT 515
5 Interv:Pediatrics & Dev Disab I/GOCCT 521
3 Community Based Interv/GOCCT 530
3 Research Seminar/GOCCT 650
3 Ethics/LPHI 237
18
Spring
5 Interv:Phys Disab II/GOCCT 516
4 Interv:Pediatrics & Dev Disab II/GOCCT 522
3 Clinical Reasoning Sem I/GOCCT 640
1 Thesis I/GOCCT 750
3 Interv Tech for Gerontology/GOCCT 630
16
FIFTH YEAR
Summer/Fall (Start of graduate phase)
8 Field Work Experience I/GOCCT 660
8 Field Work Experience II/GOCCT 661
16
Spring
3 Emerging Models of Practice/GOCCT 710
3 Adv Interv:Theory & Techniq/GOCCT 725
3 Professional Issues Sem/GOCCT 730
3 Thesis II/GOCCT 751
3 Leadership & Mgmt in OT/GOCCT 620
15
Total Credits: 167
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