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Occupational Therapy, M.S.
Curriculum

Major Requirements

Year One Credits:
OCTH 602 Gross Anatomy 4
Prerequisite: Corequisites: OCTH 604

The overall objective of this course is the investigation of all major anatomical areas by region. The focus of the course is on musculoskeletal and neurological anatomy of the extremities, back, neck, and head. Lectures cover the anatomical structures to be dissected in the laboratory and address the organization, histological, and embryological development of the various regions. The functional anatomy of the musculoskeletal structures is emphasized. Specific instructions are provided to the student to encourage an efficient dissection.

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 3-5-4
OCTH 604 Introduction to Occupational Therapy 3
Prerequisite: Corequisites: OCTH 602

Students will learn the history, philosophy and foundational theories of occupational therapy and its effects and significance on current practice. Students will also be introduced to the topics of professionalism, evidence based practice and ethics under current legislation within the field of occupational therapy. Official documents of the profession are presented as students learn about the various professional organizations and associations that support and promote the profession. The importance of professionalism, professional development, cultural sensitivity and ethics on the practice of occupational therapy are reinforced. This course will prepare students for subsequent coursework and fieldwork. Classroom Hours- Laboratory and/or Studio Hours- Course Credits: 3-0-3

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 3-0-3
OCTH 607 Childhood Development 2
Prerequisite: Prerequisites: OCTH 602, OCTH 604 Corequisites: OCTH 615, OCTH 608, OCTH 609

This course introduces the student to theories and factors that influence human growth and development from birth through adolescence, and explores how these factors are embedded in the scope of occupational therapy. The student, through lectures, readings, observations, classroom exercises, and assignments, examines the elements that influence normal development in order to understand the role these factors play in occupational therapy practice. Topics includes prenatal development, reflexes, motor, musculoskeletal, cognitive and perceptual development.

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 3-0-3
OCTH 608 Adult Development and Geriatrics 2
Prerequisite: Prerequisites: OCTH 602, OCTH 604 Corequisites: OCTH 607, OCTH 609, OCTH 615

This course introduces the students to age-related changes across adulthood in areas of social, cognitive, and physical functioning. Changes to occupational performance in daily activities, social roles and relationships, loss and death will be examined through the life span. Students will explore other concepts that affect functioning across the life span such as motivation, personality and stress.

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 2-0-2
OCTH 609 Fieldwork I: Psychosocial Conditions 3
This course provides an exploration of psychosocial conditions in mental health occupational therapy practice. Focus is on the classification of mental disorders categorized in the DSM 5.

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 3-0-3
OCTH 611 Models of Practice in OT 2
In this course students are introduced to the different models, theories, and frameworks that occupational therapists use during their practice. These models and frameworks guide the therapist during the occupational therapy process from data collection, assessment, and intervention planning. Students also will learn the concepts of occupational science and its relation to occupational therapy practice.

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 2-0-2
OCTH 612 Conditions in Pediatrics 3
Prerequisite: Prerequisites: OCTH 602, OCTH 604 Corequisites: OCTH 614, OCTH 613

This course will provide an overview of pathological conditions commonly encountered in the practice of pediatric occupational therapy. The course will cover the clinical presentation of pathological conditions, prognosis, diagnostics, medical treatment interventions, and the implications for the occupational therapy provider. The student, through lectures, readings, observations, classroom exercises, and assignments, examines the elements that influence and hinder development in order to understand the role these factors play in occupational therapy practice. Classroom Hours- Laboratory and/or Studio Hours- Course Credits: 3-0-3

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 3-0-3
OCTH 613 Neuroscience 3
This is an introduction to the science of the nervous system for the physical and occupational therapist that provides the basic understanding of the anatomy of the nervous system and its function. A review of the histology and embryology of the major divisions of the nervous system is followed by a systems approach to the study of the special senses, cognition, and psychological and motor functions. Functional aspects of neuroscience are explored through examples of common neurological clinical problems in order to provide a solid foundation for planning therapeutic interventions.

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 3-0-3
OCTH 614 Physical Conditions in Adults 3
Prerequisite: Prerequisites: OCTH 602, OCTH 604, OCTH 608 Corequisites: OCTH 612, OCTH 613

This course will provide an overview of pathological conditions commonly encountered in the practice of occupational therapy with adults. The course will cover the clinical presentation of pathological conditions, prognosis, diagnostics, medical treatment interventions, and the implications for the occupational therapy provider. Classroom Hours- Laboratory and/or Studio Hours- Course Credits: 3-0-3

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 3-0-3
OCTH 615 Kinesiology 4
Kinesiology is the study of human motion as applied to evaluation of joint motion and muscle function. Palpation of joints, bony prominences, and muscles as well as manual muscle testing, range of motion, and goniometry skills will be addressed.

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 3-3-4
OCTH 617 Occupation and Task Analysis Laboratory 2
This course introduces students to the concept of occupation and the role of occupation as the philosophical underpinning of the profession of occupational therapy. Context, occupation and task analysis are explored from the lens of how context shapes and influences occupational performance in the impact on health and well-being. The student will begin to analyze human activity for the purpose of facilitating occupational performance. Lecture, class discussions, readings, written and oral assignments, laboratory exercise and online discussions are used to facilitate learning. Classroom Hours- Laboratory and/or Studio Hours- Course Credits: 1-2-2

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 1-2-2
OCTH 640 OT Research Design I: Research Foundations 2
Prerequisite: Prerequisites: OCTH 602, OCTH 604 Corequsites: OCTH 612, OCTH 613

This course is the first of four in a Research Design sequence beginning in the fall semester of the first year. This course introduces the foundational concepts in research methods in occupational therapy. Students will investigate a topic through the course sequence which will include identifying research questions, reviewing the literature, designing a study, collecting data, analyzing data, and reporting findings. This first course will begin with selecting a research question to study, understanding the critical use of evidence in practice, and reviewing the literature on the topic. Students will also be introduced to basic statistics, psychometric properties of assessment, and the principles of research methods. This course will incorporate individual and group work, and faculty advisement. The final semester assignment will be a comprehensive literature review.
OCTH 641 OT Research Design II: Research Methods 2
Prerequisite: Prerequisites: OCTH 640

This course is the second of four in a Research Design sequence occurring in the spring semester of the first year. This course continues with a more in-depth application of research methods in order to identify appropriate qualitative and quantitative research designs that match their study, as well as data collection and analysis strategies in occupational therapy. Students will reinforce research methods explored in depth to engage in the research process, including synthesis of their literature review, and selection of an appropriate research design for their topic. Students will interpret and engage in policies, procedures and prepare documentation applicable to conduct ethical and responsible research in occupational therapy. This course will incorporate individual and group work, and faculty advisement as the students continue to engage in research as a scientific method. The final semester assignment will be a Research Plan which outlines the research study plan.

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 2-0-2
 
Year Two Credits:
OCTH 707 Fieldwork I: OT Assessment in Pediatrics Laboratory 3
Prerequisite: Prerequisites: OCTH 602, OCTH 604, OCTH 613, OCTH 615, OCTH 607, OCTH 612 Corequisites: OCTH 709, OCTH 714, OCTH 736

This course will provide an overview of assessment methods, screenings and tools that are used within the practice of pediatric settings. Drawing on foundations of study in anatomy, kinesiology, Development of the Child and Physical Conditions of the Child, students will learn to engage in clinical reasoning skills drawing from a variety of theoretical perspectives as they learn how to select and implement assessments based on the specific diagnosis, presentation and functional complaints of the child. Level 1 pediatric experience, case studies and videos will be utilized to reflect current pediatric occupational therapy practice. In addition, hands on learning activities will integrate the knowledge, skills and attitudes important for established and emerging areas of pediatric occupational therapy. Classroom Hours- Laboratory and/or Studio Hours- Course Credits: 2-3-3

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 2-3-3
OCTH 709 OT Assessment in Psychosocial Disorders Laboratory 3
Prerequisite: Prerequisites: OCTH 604, OCTH 607, OCTH 608, OCTH 612, OCTH 609, OCTH 614 Corequisites: OCTH 707, OCTH 714, OCTH 736

The OT Assessment in Psychosocial Disorders/Lab course builds on the Psychosocial Disorders course and expands learning on theory, frames of reference, and evidence based practice as they influence evaluation, screening and assessment with clients whose psychosocial deficits impact performance. Students learn assessment strategies and outcome measure tools essential for client-centered intervention planning. Students begin to utilize beginning clinical reasoning skills as they explore ethical, cultural, social and political factors associated with mental health practice. Classroom Hours- Laboratory and/or Studio Hours- Course Credits: 3-3-3

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 3-3-3
OCTH 714 OT Assessment in Physical Dysfunctions Laboratory 3
Prerequisite: Prerequisites: OCTH 602,OCTH 613, OCTH 615 Corequisites: OCTH 707, OCTH 709, OCTH 736

This class will provide an overview of assessment methods, screenings, and tools that are used within the practice of physical disabilities settings. Students will learn to engage in clinical reasoning skills as they learn how to select and implement assessments based on the specific diagnosis, presentation, and functional complaints of the client. Classroom Hours- Laboratory and/or Studio Hours- Course Credits: 2-3-3

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 2-3-3
OCTH 735 Health Promotion 2
The Health Promotion course is designed to introduce the student to community and public health topics and trends. Major topics include fundamentals of epidemiology, primary, secondary and tertiary prevention, chronic disease, health disparities, injury, violence, population health, delivery systems, program planning, and program evaluation. Students will identify local, national and global health policies and initiatives that meet individual, community and organizational needs. Students learn to apply health promotion theories, models and evidence based practice strategies in developing and implementing innovative health promotion initiatives that meet the diverse needs of individuals across the lifespan. Students apply therapeutic use of self and clinical reasoning skills based on ethical, cultural, social and political factors in carrying out a community health project which aligns with and meets community and societal needs. Classroom Hours- Laboratory and/or Studio Hours- Course Credits: 3-0-3

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 3-0-3
OCTH 736 Administration and Leadership 3
The Administration, Leadership and Entrepreneurship course is designed to enable the occupational therapy student to learn, develop and apply management, leadership and entrepreneurial principles and skills which are guided by foundational, theoretical and evidence-based approaches in occupational therapy. Students will become leaders and agents of change by addressing sociopolitical issues through advocacy and innovative health policy initiatives. Students will utilize diverse, inter-disciplinary approaches for leading, managing and developing traditional and novel practices and programs which address ethical, equitable, cultural, social and political factors in alignment with local, national and global societal issues. Students will further develop their professional portfolio. Student will learn and demonstrate ability to transform innovative policy-driven ideas into academic and community-based curriculum, business plans and grant proposals which are timely and essential tools necessary for addressing population, policy and sociocultural norms.

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 3-0-3
OCTH 744 Upper Extremities and Hand Therapy Laboratory 4
This class will provide an overview of assessment methods, screenings, and tools that are used within the practice of physical disabilities settings. Students will learn to engage in clinical reasoning skills as they learn how to select and implement assessments based on the specific diagnosis, presentation, and functional complaints of the client. Classroom Hours- Laboratory and/or Studio Hours- Course Credits: 3-3-4

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 3-3-4
OCTH 750 OT Interventions in Physical Conditions Laboratory 3
Prerequisite: Prerequisites: OCTH 602, OCTH 613, OCTH 615, OCTH 614 Corequisites: OCTH 777, OCTH 799, OCTH 744

In this class students will develop the skills necessary to create and implement comprehensive intervention plans to maximize engagement in occupation for clients with a wide variety of diagnoses within the physical rehabilitation setting. Diagnoses include, but are not limited to stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, amputations, joint replacements, and cardiac conditions. Students will learn to utilize assessment findings in order to create individualized intervention plans utilizing available resources and evidence based research. Classroom Hours- Laboratory and/or Studio Hours- Course Credits: 2-3-3

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 2-3-3
OCTH 771 OT Research Design III: The Research Process 2
Prerequisite: Prerequisites: OCTH 640, OCTH 641

This course is the third of four in a Research Design sequence occurring in the fall semester of the second year. This course continues to emphasize data collection and analysis strategies to complete their research study. Students will continue to engage in the research process including obtaining final approvals for IRB, completing research study materials, and locating and selecting appropriate grant funding sources. This course will incorporate individual and group work, and faculty advisement as the students continue to engage in research as a scientific method. The final semester assignment will be a final proposal outlining their research study from the literature review to the presentation of results.

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 1-3-2
OCTH 772 OT Research Design IV: Dissemination 1
Prerequisite: Prerequisites: OCTH 640, OCTH 641, OCTH 771

This course is the final course in the Research Design sequence occurring in the spring semester of the second year. This course focuses on dissemination strategies to report findings through various options including submitting a publication or grant application, engaging in peer review process, poster presentation and conference presentation. Students will complete the research process to report their findings to the NYIT and OT community at various levels. This course will incorporate seminars, group and individual work, and faculty advisement as the students complete the research process. The final semester assignments will include completing one or more of the options described above.

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 0-3-1
OCTH 777 OT Interventions in Pediatrics Laboratory 3
Prerequisite: Prerequisites: OCTH 602, OCTH 615, OCTH 607, OCTH 612, OCTH 707 Corequisites: OCTH 799, OCTH 744, OCTH 750

This course allows the student to develop the more advanced clinical reasoning skills needed to develop and implement client centered interventions that meet the needs of children and their families within various pediatric settings. Drawing on foundations of study in anatomy, kinesiology, Development of the Child, Physical Conditions of the Child and Occupational Therapy Assessments in Pediatrics students will learn to engage in clinical reasoning skills drawing from a variety of theoretical perspectives as they learn how to select and implement interventions based on evidence based practice in relation to the child’s specific diagnosis, presentation and functional complaints. Readings, lectures, case studies and videos will be utilized to reflect current pediatric occupational therapy practice. In addition, hands on learning activities will integrate the knowledge, skills and attitudes important for established and emerging areas of pediatric occupational therapy. Classroom Hours- Laboratory and/or Studio Hours- Course Credits: 2-3-3

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 2-3-3
OCTH 799 OT Interventions in Psychosocial Disorders and GroupProcess Laboratory 3
The OT Interventions in Psychosocial & Group Process course advances learning from the OT Assessment in Psychosocial Disorders course and builds on evaluation, screening and assessment methods with clients whose psychosocial deficits impact performance. Students develop and implement client-centered interventions based on areas of occupation for both individual and group settings. Students explore group dynamics and the structure, function, and theories of group process as used by the occupational therapist. Students apply therapeutic use of self and clinical reasoning skills based on ethical, cultural, social and political factors which influence mental health treatment and therapeutic interventions for group practice. Classroom Hours- Laboratory and/or Studio Hours- Course Credits: 2-3-3

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 2-3-3
 
Year Three Credits:
OCTH 850 Clinical Reasoning and Professional Development 2
The Clinical Reasoning and Professional Development course enables students to reflect, analyze, critique, and build upon their knowledge and experience from level II fieldwork, in order to expand their capacity to provide occupational therapy services which align with the scope and vision of the profession. Students learn to develop interpersonal and professional skills essential for practicing as a beginning level occupational therapist. Students identify their strengths and growth areas related to clinical reasoning and clinical competency in preparation for board certification and practice. Emphasis on local, national, and global service delivery enables students to expand their possibilities in choosing career options in traditional and emerging practice areas. Students apply prior learning based on evidence and ethical, cultural, social and political factors and develop a plan for success. Classroom Hours- Laboratory and/or Studio Hours- Course Credits: 2-0-2

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 2-0-2
OCTH 854 Contemporary and Emerging Occupational Therapy Practice 3
Prerequisite: Corequisites: OCTH 895

In this course, students will explore contemporary and emerging practice areas in the field of occupational therapy as well as current issues affecting healthcare and the profession within the current sociopolitical context. Topics such as complementary and alternative medicine, telehealth, occupational justice, and practice in the global community will be explored. Selected readings, guest lectures, and class discussions will facilitate student growth and perspective.

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 3-0-3
OCTH 895 Fieldwork II Part A 3
Level II fieldwork is a full-time immersive clinical experience where students will deliver occupational therapy services to varied populations in diverse settings and contexts. “The goal of Level II fieldwork is to develop competent, entry-level, generalist occupational therapy practitioners. Level II fieldwork must be integral to the program’s curriculum design and must include an in-depth experience in delivering occupational therapy services to clients, focusing on the application of purposeful and meaningful occupation and research, administration, and management of occupational therapy services. It is recommended that the student be exposed to a variety of clients across the lifespan and to a variety of settings.” (ACOTE, 2018). After satisfactory completion of the didactic courses and level I fieldwork, the student will begin the first of two clinical education placements that can take place in a variety of traditional or nontraditional settings, that meet the selection criteria of the program, in accordance with the standards articulated by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE ®). Fieldwork Level IIA is a 12-week, full-time experience designed to foster continued professional clinical competence and growth under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapist. The student is expected to increase skill level at progressively higher levels of performance with the goal of developing entry level practitioner skills by the completion of the fieldwork experience.

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 0-3-3
OCTH 896 Fieldwork II Part B 3
Level II fieldwork is a full-time immersive clinical experience where students will deliver occupational therapy services to varied populations in diverse settings and contexts. “The goal of Level II fieldwork is to develop competent, entry-level, generalist occupational therapy practitioners. Level II fieldwork must be integral to the program’s curriculum design and must include an in-depth experience in delivering occupational therapy services to clients, focusing on the application of purposeful and meaningful occupation and research, administration, and management of occupational therapy services. It is recommended that the student be exposed to a variety of clients across the lifespan and to a variety of settings.” (ACOTE, 2018). After satisfactory completion of the didactic courses, level I fieldwork, and level IIA fieldwork, the student will begin the second of two clinical education placements that can take place in a variety of traditional or nontraditional settings, that meet the selection criteria of the program, in accordance with the standards articulated by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE ®). Fieldwork Level IIB is a 12-week, full-time experience designed to foster continued professional clinical competence and growth under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapist. The student is expected to increase skill level at progressively higher levels of performance with the goal of developing entry level practitioner skills by the completion of the fieldwork experience. Completion of Level IIA and IIB meets the 24-week minimum level II fieldwork requirement.

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 0-3-3
 
OT Elective (choose one) Credits:
OCTH 851 Specialized Topics in Hand Therapy (online) 2
This class will prepare the student to apply advanced concepts of hand and upper extremity rehabilitation to a variety of orthopedic, traumatic and neurological diagnoses. Content will focus on advanced topics in the field of specialized upper extremity rehabilitation including evaluation, orthosis analysis, implementation of therapeutic exercises, Students will engage in critical thinking and clinical reasoning as they apply concepts of upper extremity rehabilitation to various case studies. Classroom Hours- Laboratory and/or Studio Hours- Course Credits: 2-0-2

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 2-0-2
OCTH 852 Specialized Topics in Pediatrics (online) 2
This class will prepare the student to apply advanced concepts and to utilize evidenced based practice within the area of pediatrics. Content will focus on areas of practice, frames of reference and interventions within the field of pediatrics including sensory integration, constraint induced movement therapy, infant child feeding and swallowing, early intervention and school based therapy. Students will engage in critical thinking and reasoning as they apply these concepts to various case studies. Classroom Hours- Laboratory and/or Studio Hours- Course Credits: 2-0-2

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 2-0-2
OCTH 853 Specialized Topics in Neurorehabilitation (online) 2
This class will prepare the student to apply advanced concepts of neuro-rehabilitation to a variety of neurological diagnoses. Content will focus on advanced topics in the field of neuro-rehabilitation including motor learning and control, cognition and perception, vision rehabilitation, vestibular rehabilitation, and concussion rehabilitation. Students will engage in critical thinking and clinical reasoning as they apply concepts of neuro-rehabilitation to various case studies. Classroom Hours- Laboratory and/or Studio Hours- Course Credits: 2-0-2

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 2-0-2
OCTH 856 Specialized Topics in Early Intervention (online) 2
Prerequisite: Corequisites: OCTH 896

This course focuses on the specialized area of Occupational therapy- Early Intervention (EI) for young children and their families, birth to age three. This course builds upon pediatric practices introduced in the curriculum to enhance student’s understanding of the issues revolving around the family as the client and recipient of services. This course will correlate with the Division of Early Childhood/Early Childhood Personnel Centers Cross Disciplinary Standards of which the American Occupational Therapy Association collaborated on 4 key components: Coordination & Collaboration, Family Centered Best Practices, Evidence Based Practices and Professionalism. Through this lens, the students will learn about the EI process in general, and specific to New York State, family centered best practices including culturally and linguistically sensitive, natural environments and coaching. Students will learn how to identify young children for eligibility for EI services through routines-based interviews, authentic assessment and standard assessment strategies. Students will coordinate with a partner family whom they will observe and assess to apply principles throughout the course and report to classmates through discussion forums.

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 2-0-2
Elective taken in year three of the program.
 
Optional Fieldwork Credits:
OCTH 899 Specialty Fieldwork 2
Level II fieldwork is a full-time immersive clinical experience where students will deliver occupational therapy services to varied populations in diverse settings and contexts. “The goal of Level II fieldwork is to develop competent, entry-level, generalist occupational therapy practitioners. Level II fieldwork must be integral to the program’s curriculum design and must include an in-depth experience in delivering occupational therapy services to clients, focusing on the application of purposeful and meaningful occupation and research, administration, and management of occupational therapy services. It is recommended that the student be exposed to a variety of clients across the lifespan and to a variety of settings.” (ACOTE, 2018). After satisfactory completion of the didactic courses, level I fieldwork, and two required full-time level II FW experiences (totaling 24 weeks), the student may opt in to a third, specialty level II placement. This placement can take place in a variety of traditional or nontraditional settings, that meet the selection criteria of the program, in accordance with the standards articulated by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE ®). The optional level II specialty fieldwork is an 8-10, full- time designed to foster continued professional clinical competence and growth under the supervision of a licensed occupational therapist. The fieldwork objectives are consistent in all three placements but the expectations regarding fundamentals of practice, delivery of service, communication, and the implementation of evidence-based practice are greater and more focused in the specialty. Classroom Hours- Laboratory and/or Studio Hours- Course Credits: 0-2-2

Classroom Hours - Laboratory and/or Studio Hours – Course Credits: 0-2-2
 
Total Required Credits = 78–80