Occupational Therapy

  • Master of Science (M.S.)

The occupational therapy profession is based on the belief that purposeful and meaningful activities, called occupations, are the primary tools used for human development (AOTA, 1979). Occupational therapists work with clients of all ages who have physical, mental, or developmental disabilities, to improve performance of daily activities.

Program Offerings at Grand Valley

The OT department offers two program options: the traditional full-time two year curriculum or the full-time weekend curriculum completed over three years. The weekend program is for students who must maintain full or part-time employment throughout the program due to life commitments. Both programs lead to an entry-level Master of Science degree. Completion of all prerequisite coursework; a minimum of 50 hours of work, volunteer and/or job shadow experience with a licensed occupational therapist; and the attainment of a bachelor's degree is required prior to beginning either program.

Coursework

OT students study a variety of topics that include:

  • Adult practice
  • Foundations of child and adolescent practice
  • Grant writing
  • Meaningful living through occupation

Career Options

OT's are employed in a variety of health care settings including:

  • Adult day care programs
  • Community agencies
  • Hospitals
  • Private practices
  • Mental health programs
  • Residential facilities
  • School systems
  • Work rehabilitation

Why Study Occupational Therapy at Grand Valley?

  • Occupational therapy is considered one of the top careers for the future with a growth rate of 26% in the next eight years.
  • GVSU's occupational therapy program has the 5th highest pass rate nationally for first-time takes on the NBCOT Board Exam at 98.4%.
  • The Occupational Therapy Department at GVSU focuses on critical thinking and the use of occupation in treatment, and supports a client-centered approach to treatment.
  • Occupational therapy program graduates have opportunities for leadership roles in practice and education.
  • The OT programs at GVSU are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) located at 4720 Montgomery Lane, PO Box 31220, Bethesda MD 20824-1220. ACOTE's telephone number c/o AOTA is (301) 652-2682.

For More Information

College of Health Professions
Occupational Therapy Program
www.gvsu.edu/ot
(616) 331-5700
Admissions Office
www.gvsu.edu/admissions

“I've learned so much from my professors and peers and had experiences that have helped me feel really prepared for a career in my field.”

BRIGETTE MELLON
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ALUMNA

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