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2013-2014 Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog

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Master of Science in Occupational Therapy

For additional information about opportunities your college offers, please refer to the College of Health Professions section in this catalog.

Website: www.gvsu.edu/grad/ot

Admission to the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy

  • Academic achievement of a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale in pre-professional courses and in the last 60 hours of undergraduate work. All pre-professional courses must be completed with a grade of C or better.
  • An interview and an onsite writing sample.
  • Documented volunteer experience for a minimum of 50 hours under the supervision of an occupational therapist.
  • Completion of Achievement Summary Form detailing student accomplishments that reflect the core goals of the program.
  • International student applicants should be able to communicate well in English. The following minimal scores are expected: TOEFL 610 or computer-based TOEFL 253.
  • Transfer students from two or four-year colleges must also complete an undergraduate application to GVSU. It is recommended that students transfer by the beginning of their junior year to ensure completion of all undergraduate degree and pre-professional requirements. Transfer students should consult with an advisor from the occupational therapy program before entering GVSU or shortly thereafter.
  • Potential candidates to the occupational therapy program coming from other educational institutions who wish to complete a required pre-professional course at GVSU may apply for non-degree-seeking status, using an undergraduate application. Once all pre-professional requirements have been completed, then the student will need to submit a graduate application.

Requirements for the M.S. in Occupational Therapy

Completion of 79 to 80 credits in the professional curriculum is required for completion of the master's degree in occupational therapy. General graduate academic policies can be found in the Grand Valley State University Undergraduate and Graduate Catalog. General university degree requirements are in the Academic Regulations section of the catalog and the requirements for undergraduate majors are in the appropriate Academic Programs section.

Professional Program Requirements for the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy

Because the occupational therapy program prepares students to practice in a variety of settings, we assume the responsibility to assure the public that our students have met high standards of professional behavior, academic achievement and consistent evidence of response to consumer needs. Criminal background checks may be required prior to participation in certain clinical experiences. The cost of this evaluation may be the responsibility of the student.

The program requires that students attain a minimum of 84 percent competency in each course, which is reflected in each course syllabus across the professional curriculum.

OR

* Level II fieldwork must be completed within 24 months of completion of the academic program.

Sample Curriculum for Professional Program

Traditional Program

Fall I

Winter I

Spring/Summer I

Second Six Weeks:

Fall II

Winter II

Spring/Summer II

Weekend Delivery Model

Fall I Winter I Summer I
OT 502 3 cr OT 551/552 6 cr OT 557 2 cr
OT 505 3 cr OT 553 2 cr OT 565 3 cr
STA 610 3 cr OT 555 3 cr PA 535 3 cr
TOTAL: 9 cr TOTAL: 11 cr
TOTAL: 8 cr
Fall II Winter II Summer II
OT 503 2 cr OT 558/559 3 cr OT 571/572 6 cr
OT 561/562 5 cr EDH 648 3 cr OT 573 1 cr
OT 563 1 cr OT 564 2 cr OT 693/695 2-3 cr
Total: 8 cr Total: 8 cr Total: 9-10 cr
Fall III Winter III Summer III
OT 651/652 6 cr OT 660 (FW) 9 cr OT 661 (FW) 9 cr
OT 653 1 cr OT 698 1 cr
Total: 7 cr Total: 9 cr Total: 10 cr
TOTAL CREDITS: 79-80

Occupational Therapy Program Description

Click here for the program description.



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