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Home > College of Health Professions > Occupational Therapy > Course Descriptionsprint
Course Descriptions

FIRST YEAR - Semester 1: Summer

RS-716. Human Anatomy This course in gross anatomy is designed to provide students with the knowledge of clinical anatomy necessary to practice their expertise upon graduation.  The contents of the course include gross anatomy and an introduction to anatomical radiology, and will be conducted to represent a survey of the entire human body.  Teaching/learning methodologies will include lectures and discussions, prosected human cadavers, and computer applications.  The course will be taught regionally (ie upper limb, lower limb, spine, etc), and will survey all morphologic systems.  4 s.h. lecture, 1 s.h. lab.  Thomas

RS-535. Introduction to Evidence-Based Practice.
This course introduces students in the rehabilitation sciences to the concept of evidence-based practice. Beginning with an orientation to published literature in the health professions, attention will be given to techniques of searching bibliographic databases such as Medline, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and PsycINFO. Students will search, read, and analyze literature that validates current practice. 1 s.h. Mitcham.

OT-545. Surface Anatomy.
This course focuses on the location and palpation of the anatomical structures of the upper and lower expremities, head, neck, back, thorax, and abdomen.  1 s.h. Jurch and Bowman.

OT-612. Introduction to Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy.
This course provides an introduction to occupational science, the study of humans as occupational beings.  Further, the role of occupation as the philosophical underpinning of the profession of occupational therapy is explored, along with it's history, development, and key organizations.  Current status of and challenges for the profession are discussed across a variety of contexts - medical, educational and community.  Students begin to engage in the process of envisioning and developing their career trajectory.  2 s.h.  Mitcham

OT-659. OT Clinical Correlates (Occupation).
The first in a series of clinical correlate courses, this course is designed to provide students with an introduction to the role of fieldwork in occupational therapy practice as well as opportunities to participate in supervised community-based Level I fieldwork.  In addition, this course provides the foundation for acquiring knowledge of professional behaviors and development and applying that knowledge while interacting with and providing service to individuals and organizations in the community.  1 s.h.  Burik

FIRST YEAR - Semester 2: Fall

RS-701. Neuroscience.
This course will thoroughly examine the structure and function of the human nervous system with emphasis on functional considerations related to clinical practice. This course will include a study of microscopic and macroscopic anatomical components of the central, peripheral, and autonomic nervous system with emphasis on the organization of functional systems. The neurophysiological principles which are related to neural transmission and function of the various structures and systems will also be examined. Signs and symptoms related to various pathological conditions affecting the nervous system will be emphasized and students will be expected to correlate the clinical manifestations with the anatomical location of the pathology. 5 s.h. Saladin.

RS-555. Quantitative Research for Evidence-Based Practice.
This course introduces students in the rehabilitation sciences to the concepts of quantitative research  as it relates to  evidence-based practice by giving attention to basic principles underlying the process of clinical science, including concepts of the scientific methods related to experimental research. Three major aspects of the scientific method addressed will be: reliability and validity, research design and data analysis. 1 s.h.  M. Saladin.

OT-644. Occupational Performance for Musculoskeletal Conditions I.
This course is the first of two major courses that provide the student with a solid foundation in the evaluation of musculoskeletal disorders using the biomechanical and rehabilitative frames of reference. Included in this first segment are (1) principals of evaluation, including interviewing skills, muscle testing, goniometry, dexterity and endurance; (2) concepts and techniques related to physical intervention; (3) application of activity analysis to functional daily living tasks; and, (4) basic skills for transfers and adaptive equipment. The science of biomechanics and kinesiology is presented in relation to acute and chronic orthopedic disorders along with case presentations to integrate clinical decision-making and problem solving. 4 s.h. Bowman.

OT-644L. Occupational Performance for Musculoskeletal Conditions I Lab.
This course is the first of the two major laboratory experiences, which provide the student with a solid foundation in the evaluation and treatment musculoskeletal disorders, to ensure the development of practical occupational therapy evaluation skills  Students will study and practice assessment tests and measurement skills including occupational profile, initial interviewing skills, manual muscle testing, measurement of joint range of motion, vital sign assessments, dexterity, sensation testing, and neurological screening.  Concepts and techniques related to therapeutic intervention and posture analysis are practiced and related to various common situations involving musculoskeletal dysfunction to provide problem-solving skills during laboratory sessions. 2 s.h. Bowman.

OT-601. Occupational Performance in Pediatrics I.
This course examines the major sensorimotor, cognitive, neuromotor, and psychosocial theories of normal development from childhood to adulthood from an occupational therapy perspective.  The etiology and clinical features of common infant and childhood diseases/disorders will be discussed with emphasis on neurological and biomechanical conditions.  Students will be introduced to common occupational therapy assessments and treatment approaches used to evaluate the development of infants and children in the following areas: visual perceptual, fine motor, self-help, oral motor/ feeding, and neuromotor.  Clinical decision making and treatment in a variety of therapeutic settings will be discussed. 3 s.h. Coker.

OT-601L. Occupational Performance in Pediatrics I Laboratory.
Small group sessions will be used to work on principles and ideas presented in Occupational Performance in Pediatrics I lecture.  Emphasis will be placed on participating in completing occupational therapy pediatric assessments, developing treatment activities, goal setting, and documentation for the infants and children with neuromuscular conditions. 2 s.h. Coker.

OT-613. Theoretical Foundations of Occupational Therapy.
This course provides an overview of the theoretical foundations upon which the practice of contemporary occupational therapy is built.  Principles of theory development are explored, overarching concepts are examined, and application to practice and research is considered.  Attention is given to comprehensive theories as well as specific practice models and frames of reference that have influenced knowledge development in the profession. 2 s.h. Mitcham

FIRST YEAR - Semester 3: Spring

RS-620. Pathophysiology.
The purpose of this course is to acquaint rehabilitation science students with pathological changes in human function that lead to and are associated with various diseases. Understanding diseases and pathologically altered function forms an important component to evaluation, treatment, and the rehabilitation process. 3 s.h. Thomas.

RS-560. Qualitative Research Approaches to Evidence-Based Practice.
This course introduces and provides preliminary experience with qualitative research approaches used to generate new knowledge in the rehabilitation sciences. Attention will be given to exploring the advantages and disadvantages of qualitative research methods, the principles of methodologic rigor, strategies for qualitative analysis, the importance of ethical research conduct, and to examining and critiquing existing professional evidence that may be used to inform practice. 1 s.h. Mitcham.

OT-646. Occupational Performance for Musculoskeletal Conditions II.
This course is the second of two major courses that will provide the student with a solid foundation in the evaluation and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. Included in this course are the continued exploration of evaluation and treatment of orthopedic disorders and the progression into more complicated conditions and advanced treatment techniques. Principles of occupational task adaptation, upper extremity evaluation and treatment, industrial rehabilitation, treatment modalities and orthotic fabrication are presented.  Student case presentations are used to build upon the skills acquired in the previous musculoskeletal course.  Clinical problems are used to ensure the student is able to develop a treatment plan and home program for any given case. 4 s.h. Bowman.

OT-646L. Occupational Performance for Musculoskeletal Conditions II Lab.
This course is the second of the laboratory courses that will provide the student with evaluation and treatment skills for musculoskeletal disorders.  Included in this second segment are the continued exploration of evaluation and treatment methodology for orthopedic disorders, principles and application of modality use, occupational tasks, upper extremity evaluation and treatment, industrial rehabilitation, and adaptation, orthotic fabrication of static and dynamic splints and case study presentations to integrate advance occupational therapy evaluation and treatment skills.  All activities are demonstrated and practiced to build on the practical skills during the first segment of the course. 2 s.h. Bowman.

OT-602. Occupational Performance in Pediatrics II.
This course is a continuation of material from Occupational Performance in Pediatrics I.  Emphasis is placed on the etiology and clinical features of common infant and childhood diseases/disorders with emphasis on cognitive and sensory processing disorders.  Students will be introduced to common occupational therapy assessments and treatment approaches used to evaluate infants and children with cognitive delays and sensory processing deficits in the following areas: visual perceptual, fine motor, self-help, oral motor, and sensory processing.  Clinical decision making, treatment, and documentation in a variety of therapeutic settings will be discussed. 3 s.h. Coker.

OT-602L. Occupational Performance in Pediatrics II Laboratory.
Small group sessions will be used to work on principles and ideas presented in Occupational Performance in Pediatrics II lecture.  Emphasis will be placed on participating in completing occupational therapy pediatric assessments, developing treatment activities, goal setting, and documentation for the infants and children with cognitive or sensory processing disorders. 2 s.h. Coker.

OT-522 Clinical Correlate (Pediatrics).
The third in a series of six clinical correlates, this course will provide students with experiences designed to enhance coursework through guided observation and selected participation in various aspects of the occupational therapy process. The format will include participation in a full-time,one-week Level I fieldwork experience with emphasis in pediatrics.  Students will observe and participate in evaluation and treatment of pediatric clients with a variety of diagnoses and conditions that are served in medical or educational settings and will apply concepts from previous and concurrent courses emphasizing pediatric diagnoses, intervention and occupational performance.  1 s.h. Burik.

OT-603. Occupational Performance for Geriatrics.
This course is designed to broaden students' awareness and knowledge of the various issues surrounding occupational therapy practice with older adults. 2 s.h. Burik.

OT-661 Clinical Correlates (Geriatrics).
The second in a series of six clinical correlates, this course will provide students with opportunities to enhance coursework through guided observation and participation in various aspects of the occupational therapy process. The format includes didactic instruction and participation in non-traditional, community-based Level I fieldwork experiences that emphasize wellness, enhancing quality of life, and occupational performance. Students will interview and assess clients, participate in activity programming, plan and implement therapeutic groups based on clients' needs and interests, and document the occupational therapy process while applying concepts from previous and concurrent coursework. 1 s.h. Burik. 

SECOND YEAR - Semester 4: Summer

RS-565. Single System Research Approaches to Evidence-Based Practice.
This course introduces students in the rehabilitation sciences to single system research approaches used to generate new knowledge for evidence-based practice. Attention will be given to the advantages and disadvantages of single system research methods, types of single system research designs, ways of analyzing data and the importance of ethical research conduct. 1 s.h. Yuen.

RS-515. Research Seminar.
This course provides an opportunity for students to review and critique peer reviewed journal articles that have the potential to inform practice, and to use the literature as a tool for evidence-based practice. 2 s.h. Faculty.

OT-530. Occupational Performance for Neurological Conditions I.
This course, and it's correlates lab, will promote entry-level occupational therapy skill in the evaluation and treatment of individuals with movement skill dysfunction resulting from acquired neurological disorder.  Specific emphasis is placed upon the relationship between occupational performance dysfunction and motor performance skill deficit.  The student will integrate motor control and motor learning conceptual practice models with occupational performance frameworks as a basis for evaluation and treatment planning.  Through in-depth and extensive exploration of motor control mechanisms and theories of activity-dependent plasticity, students will develop an understanding of the role of an occupational therapist in motor rehabilitation.  3 s.h. Faculty.

OT-530L. Occupational Performance for Neurological Conditions I Lab.
This course is the correlate lab of OT 530.  In the lab, students will have the opportunity to be actively involved with clients with acute and chronic disabling conditions of neurologic origin.  Students will practice neurorehabilitation evaluations with each other and apply these skills to the evaluation of a client with neurological movement impairment.  Students will also learn other neurorehabilitation skills such as wheelchair mobility, transfers, and facilitation of movement skills for meaningful task performance.  Students will perform a synthesis of motor rehabilitation literature and apply research-based evidence to the clinical reasoning process, specifically with regards to choosing and formulating intervention for these clients.  Through hands-on involvement with clients and dynamic interactive discussions/debates, students will experience first-hand application of theory and conceptual motor rehabilitation frameworks to the occupational therapy process.  2 s.h. Faculty.

OT-604. Occupational Performance for Psychosocial Practice I.
An introduction to psychosocial occupational therapy is provided.  Concepts of therapeutic use of self, interviewing techniques, communication skills, and group process dynamics, theory, and skills are examined and applied to psychosocial occupational therapy treatment.  Psychosocial frames of reference and evaluation methods are introduced. 1 s.h. Carson.

OT-604L. Occupational Performance for Psychosocial Practice I Lab.
The opportunity to participate in lab activities designed to facilitate an understanding of therapeutic use of self, interviewing techniques, communication skills, and group process dynamics/skills is provided.  The clinical relevance to psychosocial occupational therapy treatment is emphasized. 1 s.h. Carson.

OT-521. Clinical Correlate (Musculoskeletal Conditions).
The fourth in a series of six clinical correlates, this course will provide students with opportunities to enhance previous and concurrent coursework through guided observation and participation in various aspects of the occupational therapy process.  The format will include lecture, discussion, and participation in a full-time, one-week Level I clinical fieldwork experience.  Students will observe and participate in occupational therapy evaluation and intervention of individuals with musculoskeletal and/or systemic dysfunction while applying concepts from the biomechanical and rehabilitative frames of reference. 1 s.h. Burik.

SECOND YEAR - Semester 5: Fall

OT-510. Professional Issues in Occupational Therapy.
This course is designed to increase awareness of professional issues within the field of occupational therapy.  Topics such as professional accountability, professional liability, and continuing competence will be examined.  Students will develop skills to enhance lifelong learning, and advocate for their own professional development, the development of the profession, and for those who are unable to meet their own occupational needs in society. 3 s.h. Burik and Mitcham.

OT-560. Research/Scholarship Experience in Occupational Therapy.
This course provides an opportunity for students to work in small groups under the direction of a faculty member and engage in ongoing research or scholarship within the program or department. 1 s.h. Mitcham, Bowman, Burik, Carson, Coker, Yuen.

OT-606. Occupational Performance for Neurological Conditions II.
This course is the second of two courses designed to promote entry-level occupational therapy skills in the evaluation and treatment of clients with neurological conditions. Theories and principles or evaluation, treatment, and adaptation will be presented with specific emphasis on the relationship between occupational performance nd cognitive frameworks as they relate to occupational therapy practice. 3 s.h. Burik.

OT-606L. Occupational Performance for Neurological Conditions II Lab.
This course is designed to promote knowledge and acquisition of the skills and attitudes necessary for the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework process of evaluation, intervention, and outcome as it relates to neurological conditions, specifically for clients who have survived a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and present with cognitive and/or perceptual dysfunction. 2 s.h. Burik.

OT-605. Occupational Performance for Psychosocial Practice II.
Methods of evaluation, program planning, and treatment implementation for psychosocial occupational therapy are introduced and applied.  A discussion of psychosocial issues of clients and caregivers as a vital aspect of health care is included. 1 s.h. Carson.

OT-520 Clinical Correlate (Psychosocial Practice).
The fifth of six clinical correlates, this course will provide students with opportunities to enhance previous and concurrent coursework through guided observation and participation in various aspects of the occupational therapy process.  The format will include lecture, discussion, and participation in clinical fieldwork experience.  Students will observe and participate in occupational therapy evaluation and intervention of individuals with psychiatric disorders, developmental delay, and mental retardation; and will apply concepts from various psychosocial frames of reference. 1 s.h. Carson.

OT-625. Clinical Correlate (Neurological Conditions).
The last in a series of clinical correlates, this course will provide students with experiences designed to enhance coursework through guided observation and participation in various aspects of the occupational therapy process.  The format will include participation in a full-time, one-week Level I clinical fieldwork experience with emphasis in neurorehabilitation. Students will observe and participate in the evaluation and intervention of clients with a variety of diagnoses and conditions that are served in medical and/or community-based settings while applying concepts from previous coursework. 1 s.h. Burik.

OT-639. Delivery and Management of Occupational Therapy.
The evolution of an increasingly complex health care environment makes it essential for occupational therapy students to understand contemporary service delivery and management practices.  This course provides an overview of healthcare systems, educational systems, and community systems in which occupational therapists practice.  This course introduces students to current concepts and principles of management including reimbursement issues, laws pertinent to employment, and human resource issues.  Principles of program development and components of effective grant writing are also presented.  3 s.h. Carson.

SECOND YEAR - Semester 6: Spring

OT-640. Clinical Practicum I.
This course is the first in a series of three Level II, full-time fieldwork experiences intended to emphasize the application of an academcially acquired body of knowledge by providing the student with in-depth experience in performance of the occupational therapy process.  Under supervision, the student will evaluate and treat clients across the life span reflecting diversity of diagnosis and culture.  8 s.h. Burik.

OT-641. Clinical Practicum II.
This course is the second in a series of three Level II, full-time fieldwork experiences intended to emphasize the application of an academcially acquired body of knowledge by providing the student with in-depth experience in performance of the occupational therapy process.  Under supervision, the student will evaluate and treat clients across the life span reflecting diversity of diagnosis and culture.  8 s.h. Burik.

YEAR TWO PLUS- Semester 7: Summer

OT-642. Clinical Practicum III.
This course is the third in a series of three Level II, full-time fieldwork experiences intended to emphasize the application of an academcially acquired body of knowledge by providing the student with in-depth experience in performance of the occupational therapy process.  Under supervision, the student will evaluate and treat clients across the life span reflecting diversity of diagnosis and culture.  8 s.h. Burik.

OT-698. Professional Capstone Experience in Occupational Therapy.
This course provides an intensive two-day seminar immediately following the completion of all three clinical practica.  the seminar focuses on review of requisite skills for taking the national certification examination and readiness for entry into the practice environment.  Attention is given to establishing a career trajectory, developing plans for continuing competence and ongoing professional contribution, and creating an effective balance between one's personal and professional lives. 1 s.h. Mitcham, Bowman, Burik, Carson, Coker, Yuen.

ELECTIVE COURSES

RS-627. Clinical Anatomy for the Upper Extremity.
This course will allow you to study and learn the anatomy of the upper limb, using videotaped presentations, computer applications, group meetings, and clinical applications.  Each student enrolled is assumed to be an independent learner who is motivated strictly by his/her own interest in anatomy.  Consequently, in order for the offering to be successful, all students will have to complete all assignments in an attentive fashion, as well as be present for group meetings.  It is expected that everyone will participate to the fullest and give a significant contribution to his/her group activities. 1 s.h. Bowman and Thomas

RS-665. Instructional Processes for Health Professionals.
An overview of the principles of adult learning; instructional design; instructional methods, skills, media; and program development and evaluation for use in the health professions.  Students will develop skill in formulating instructional design plans for adult learners in the health professions.  Content will focus on academic, clinical, patient or community, in-service, and continuing education settings depending on the composition of graduate students and their respective health professions. 3 s.h. Faculty

OT-681 Independent Study.
Students study a topic related to OT under faculty supervision. 1-3 s.h. Faculty.

RS-695. Community-Based Experience.
Opportunity for individuals and/or small group of students to actively participate with faculty members in innovative community-based experiences that will improve the health needs of diverse communities. Students will gain experience examining how their professional skills may be harnessed to respond to the health objectives embedded in Healthy People 2010. 1-3 s.h. Faculty.

RS-699. Research Project.
An elective course for students to work with faculty members on a research project. 1-4 s.h. Faculty.

OT-636. Advanced Treatment Techniques.
Presents an opportunity for students to study new and/or specialized treatment techniques in a particular area of practice  Practical experiences in using the selected treatment techniques are included. 1-3 s.h. Faculty.

OT-637. Special Topics in Occupational Therapy.
This course allows students to expand knowledge and skills in an area of special interest. 1-3 s.h. Faculty.



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