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Physical Therapy
Occupational Therapy
Chairperson:
Jeffrey Boss, M.S., OTR
INTRODUCTION
The Occupational Therapy Program offers opportunities for in-depth study of, and clinical experiences with,
clients of all ages who have limited capacity to perform to their expectations in their everyday lives or are at
risk of developing a limiting condition. The goal of occupational therapy is to assist individuals to achieve
their maximum level of independent living and quality of life through remediation of, adaptation to, or prevention
of physical, cognitive, perceptual or mental health functional limitations. Occupational therapy utilizes the
consultative process in addition to direct intervention and works with populations and systems as well as
individuals.
Mission
The Occupational Therapy program engages students in the teaching/learning process to enable them to
demonstrate excellence in the entry-level therapeutic intervention process. This process is grounded in the
application of occupational science and the use of clinical reasoning and creative problem solving. The
program is designed to foster life-long learners who are able to adapt to an ever-changing health care
environment, to contribute to the knowledge base of the profession, and to provide leadership to the
profession and society.
The program relies heavily upon a strong foundation in liberal studies and sciences and a value-based
systems approach. A holistic, collaborative, approach to intervention within environmental and temporal
contexts includes application of principles of diversity within an international community.
GOALS OF THE PROGRAM
The goals of the Occupational Therapy program reflect the missions of the university, college, and program.
In essence, these are to educate self-directed students who, upon graduation, will become quality professionals,
contribute to the body of knowledge of the profession and provide leadership for the profession and society.
This will be accomplished through incorporation of the liberal studies component of the student’s bachelor’s
degree into graduate, professional education in Occupational Therapy. Accordingly, the goals of the
program are to:
- develop quality entry-level occupational therapists whose practice is guided by occupational science and clinical reasoning;
- create life-long learners who will contribute to the body of knowledge of the profession;
- foster student attitudes and professional behaviors consistent with the missions of the university, college and program;
- assist the student to develop the skills necessary to provide leadership roles in the profession and society;
- provide students with the skills and problem-solving abilities to adapt and respond proactively to a changing health care system and society;
- provide professional resources, services, leadership and scholarship to the profession and community;
- foster an academic community in which its members participate actively in the development of self and society;
Program of Study
The program is designed to prepare students for career opportunities in the expanding field of occupational
therapy, including entrepreneurial endeavors. In keeping with a recent national mandate to move to a master’s
as the entry level degree, the program is designed as a five-year freshman entry-level BS/MS program
(please see undergraduate catalog) as well as a post-baccalaureate, professional entry level master of
science degree in occupational therapy.
The graduate program requires the student attend a three year sequence of six fall/spring semesters with
summers off. This sequence will take three years to complete, including all fieldwork requirements.
Prior to entry in the first year of the program the student is required to take one course which can be
done through the mail and/or internet.
Upon completion of either sequence, a masters of science is conferred and the graduate is eligible to
sit for the national certification exam administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy.
Clinical Experiences
Clinical experiences for the required six month, full-time field work in the final year include sites throughout the
United States, although most are located in Pennsylvania, New York and Ohio. Prior clinical experiences, which
include hourly to weeklong experiences in the clinic, are provided locally or within a reasonable proximity to the student’s
permanent residence.
Thesis Requirements
Students are guided in their selection of a thesis topic and in the successful completion of the
thesis experience. Students participate in a small group, original research project with a faculty
mentor, which culminates in a publishable paper format.
Admission Requirements
The program is designed as a full-time course of study, although part time study may be
designed with the student in special circumstances.
Students in the final year of completion of a bachelor’s degree are accepted into the
program with a minimum 3.0 grade point average in college courses. GRE’s are not
required. Transfer credit for prerequisite courses will be completed on an individual
basis. Students may be accepted into the program contingent upon satisfactory
completion of prerequisites at another university or may be accepted directly into the
OT program if completing prerequisites at Gannon.
The following pre-requisites must be completed before formal matriculation into
the OT program: Note the Anatomy and Physiology course must have been completed
no more than three years before entry into the program.
- Intro to Psychology
- Psychopathology
- Intro to Sociology or course in diversity
- Anatomy & Physiology I & II with lab
- Developmental psychology or equivalent
- Physics (one semester survey or two semester full sequence)
- Statistics
- Computer course or demonstration of competence
*Additional requirements for all students
- A personal or telephone interview and essay addressing why a career in occupational therapy was chosen may be requested.
- Prior to matriculation in the program, students must complete their bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 40 hours of volunteer
experience in an OT setting; two different sites are preferred. Documentation must be submitted from the clinical volunteer site.
Students will also collect information for a student journal during their volunteer work.
- Deadline for applications is January 15; applications received after this deadline will be reviewed if space is available.
FINANCIAL AID
The program confers scholarships in the final two semesters of the program. Awards are based upon academic
performance, professional behaviors, and leadership/career potential. Graduate and teaching assistant positions
are also available in the final two semesters of the program. Graduate students at Gannon may also apply as
Resident Advisors in the undergraduate dorms to defray college expenses.
Accreditation
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 licenses
are usually based on the results of the certification examination. For further information on accreditation,
the address and telephone number for ACOTE are 4720 Montgomery Lane, P.O. Box 31220, Bethesda,
MD 20824-1220; (301) 652-2682.
Curriculum
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY POST BS/BA SEQUENCE
First Year Summer
| GOCCT 501 | | Foundations of OT | 3 |
| GOCCT 513 | | Occup. Science & Analysis | 3 |
| GOCCT 526 | | Neuromusculoskeletal Lab | 1 |
| GOCCT 581 | | Therapeutic Intervention Process | 3 |
| Total 10 |
First Year Fall
| GOCCT 505 | | Clinical Neuroscience | 4 |
| GOCCT 509 | | OT Psychosocial I | 4 |
| GOCCT 541 | | Analysis of Human Movement | 4 |
| GOCCT 586 | | OT Medical Sciences | 3 |
| Total 15 |
First Year Spring
| GOCCT 508 | | Neurorehab Techniques | 4 |
| GOCCT 510 | | OT Interven: Psychosocial II | 5 |
| GOCCT 550 | | The Research Process | 6 |
| GOCCT 651 | | Theoretical Foundations of OT | 3 |
| Total 18 |
Second Year Fall
| GOCCT 515 | | Intervention: Physical Disabilities I | 4 |
| GOCCT 521 | | Intervention: Pediatrics & Dev Disabilities I | 5 |
| GOCCT 530 | | Community Based Intervention | 3 |
| GOCCT 650 | | Research Seminar | 3 |
| Total 15 |
Second Year Spring
| GOCCT 516 | | OT Intervention: Physical Disabilities II | 5 |
| GOCCT 522 | | OT Intervention: Pediatrics & Dev Disabilities II | 4 |
| GOCCT 630 | | Intervention Techniques for Gerontology | 3 |
| GOCCT 640 | | Clinical Reasoning Seminar I | 3 |
| GOCCT 750 | | Thesis I | 1 |
| Total 16 |
Third Year Summer/Fall
| GOCCT 660 | | Field Work Experience I | 4 |
| GOCCT 661 | | Field Work Experience II | 4 |
| Total 8 |
Third Year Spring
| GOCCT 620 | | Leadership & Management in OT | 3 |
| GOCCT 710 | | Emerging Models of Practice | 3 |
| GOCCT 725 | | Advanced Intervention: Theory & Techniques | 3 |
| GOCCT 730 | | Professional Issues Seminar | 3 |
| GOCCT 751 | | Thesis Il | 3 |
| Total 16 |
Total Credits 91
Course DESCRIPTIONS
GOCCT 501 Foundations of Occupational Therapy
3 credits
Development of Occupational Therapy as a profession; concepts of occupational role acquisition and role dysfunction; use of human occupation as therapeutic intervention; exploration of domains of practice of OT; scopes of practice of health professionals; health and wellness; health care delivery systems; disability; professional behavior. 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.
GOCCT 505 Clinical Neuroscience
4 credits
Prerequisite: GOCCT 526 or Permission of Instructor
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.
GOCCT 508 Neurorehabilitation Techniques
4 credits
Prerequisite: GOCCT 505
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.
GOCCT 509/510 Occupational Therapy Intervention: Psychosocial Dysfunction I & II
4/5 credits
Prerequisites: GOCCT 509 for 510
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 within various cultures. The courses are composed of three sections; lecture, laboratory exercises, and a clinical fieldwork experience.
GOCCT 513 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. Lab Fee.
GOCCT 515/516 Occupational Therapy Intervention: Physical Disabilities I & II
4/5 credits
Prerequisites: GOCCT 508, 510, 586. Prerequisite for GOCCT 516 is GOCCT 515.
Analysis and adaptation of the human and non-human environments is 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 included. Level I fieldwork in an adult Physical Disabilities setting is included. Sessions will consist of lecture and lab hours weekly. One credit is assigned to the fieldwork experience in GOCCT 516. Lab Fee.
GOCCT 521/522 Occupational Therapy Intervention: Pediatrics and Development Disabilities I and II
5/4 credits
Prerequisite: GOCCT 508; Corequisite: GOCCT 515 for GOCCT 521; Prerequisite to GOCCT 522 is GOCCT 521
Atypical development resulting in problems in role performance in children is emphasized. Role acquisition, competence, adaptation, and dysfunction from birth through adolescence in 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. Lab Fee.
GOCCT 526 Structure and Function of the Neuromusculoskeletal System: Laboratory
1 credit
The purpose of this course is to provide students with laboratory skills necessary for the understanding of the neuro-musculo-skeletal system sufficient to prepare them for progression to courses in the Occupational Therapy Program. The laboratory portion of the course will focus on functional anatomy of the musculo-skeletal system. It will concentrate on having the student identify the function of the bones, joints, and muscles, within the context of volitional movement.
GOCCT 530 Community-Based Intervention
3 credits
Prerequisite: GOCCT 510; Corequisite: GOCCT 515, 521
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.
GOCCT 541 Analysis of Human Movement
4 credits
Prerequisite: GOCCT 501, 526
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.
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 health sciences. Students learn the components, principles and methods of scientific research to become discerning consumers of research.
GOCCT 561: 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, anlaysis 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.
GOCCT 581 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.
GOCCT 586 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.
GOCCT 590 Special Topics
1 - 3 credits
Prerequisite: Permission of Instructor
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.
GOCCT 599 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.
GOCCT 620 Leadership and Management in Occupational Therapy
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.
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 agerelated 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.
GOCCT 640 Clinical Reasoning Seminar I
3 credits
Prerequisite: GOCCT 510, 515, 521
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.
GOCCT 650 Research Seminar
3 credits
Prerequisite: GOCCT 550
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.
GOCCT 660/661 Fieldwork Experience I & II
8 + 8 credits
Prerequisite: Satisfactory completion of all prior course requirements, permission of faculty
This course involves six months full-time clinical experience in two different occupational therapy settings and supervised practice of therapeutic assessment and intervention techniques. Students will gain experience in a wide variety of clinical conditions and age ranges.
GOCCT 710 Emerging Models of Practice
3 credits
This course will examine emerging models of practice in the field. These will vary, based upon current Occupational Therapy theory, practice and service delivery models. In-depth exploration and understanding of current healthcare policies; social, demographic, and political issues driving the healthcare system; influences in delivery of services in OT. Informatics will be utilized as primary sources. Participants will examine new methods and settings in which to provide OT intervention and apply these in a local agency or organization. Participants will also evaluate the effectiveness of these services and modify them as needed.
GOCCT 725 Advanced Intervention: Theory and Techniques
3 credits
Prerequisite: GOCCT 515, 521; Prerequisite or Corequisite: GOCCT 516, 523
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 complementary and alternative therapies. Review of current research in all areas of practice. Clinical reasoning through case studies.
GOCCT 730 Professional Issues Seminar
3 credits
Prerequisite or Corequisite: GOCCT 661
Critical analysis of current professional issues will be examined in this course. Topics will include, but not be limited to: healthcare delivery systems, professional boundaries, regulatory agencies, specialization, validation of theory; analysis of current social, political, cultural and economic change; continuing professional development; contributions to the profession and society.
GOCCT 750/751 Thesis I and II
1-3 credits
Prerequisite: GOCCT 650, approval of the thesis director
This sequence builds on GOCCT 650 by further developing and complementing the group research proposal. Discussion leading to systematic investigation of a research problem including gathering and analyzing the data, synthesizing and discussing the information collected, and summarizing the conclusions.
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