Occupational Therapy (OT)

OT 600  Conditions in Occ Therapy    2 sem. hrs.

This course reviews common medical, developmental, and psychological conditions relevant to the occupational therapy practice. Analyze occupational performance aspects affected by heritable diseases, genetic conditions, mental illness, disability, trauma, and injury. Content addresses definitions, etiologies, incidence and prevalance, signs and symptoms, diagnostic processes, courses and prognoses, medical and surgical management, and the resulting impact on occupational performance.

OT 601  Analysis Human Func & Activity    3 sem. hrs.

This course applies the interaction of occupation and activity through the systematic study of human function and performance across the lifespan. Students describe biomechanical, developmental, and occupational science concepts to evaluate functional performance, identify barriers, and support adaptive strategies. Emphasis is placed on analyzing areas of occupation (activities of daily living, instrumental activities of daily living, rest and sleep, education, work, play, leisure, and social participation), performance skills (motor, process, and social interaction), performance patterns, context, and client factors. Course content integrates observation, activity analysis, and evidence-based methods to examine how values, beliefs, body functions, body structures, and environmental factors influence engagement. Students demonstrate activity analysis across these dimensions to inform assessment, guide intervention planning, and support participation in diverse practice settings.

OT 602  Foundations of Occupational Th    3 sem. hrs.

This course introduces the historical foundations of occupational therapy, the influence of occupation and occupational science on health, and the roles of occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants across traditional and emerging practice settings. Students examine professional behaviors, healthcare delivery models, ethical standards, and professional writing. Theories, models, and frames of reference are explored as guiding structures for evaluation and intervention with individuals, groups, and population across the lifespan, with emphasis on evidence-informed practice.

OT 602L  OT Evaluation & Assess Skl Lab    0 sem. hrs.

OT 603  Found of Body Struc & Movement    5 sem. hrs.

This course is a foundational course in typical human gross anatomy that uses a regional approach. The understanding of typical anatomy is necessary for understanding the changes in body structure and function that can occur due to injury and disease that are discussed in advanced courses. Classroom and laboratory experiences are designed to promote methods of learning that enhance understanding and minimize memorization. Emphasis is given to the neuromusculoskeletal system in the context of occupational therapy practice and the development of the ability to use anatomical terms in preparation for team based clinical practice.

OT 603L  Found of Body Struc & Move Lab    0 sem. hrs.

OT 604  Psych Aspects of Occup Perf    4 sem. hrs.

Examination of the theory and practice of psychosocial occupational therapy evaluation and intervention across diverse settings, with emphasis on mental health, wellness, and healthy lifestyles. Students analyze the lived experiences of individuals with psychopathology, including disorders of infancy, childhood, and adolesence; delirium, dementia, cognitive impairments; mood, anxiety, and personality disorders: schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders; and substance-related conditions. Clinical reasoning is developed to guide decision making throughout the OT process. Content includes the design, implementation, and evaluation of group interventions, with attention to group dynamics and effective therapeutic use of self. Students actively engage in case studies, role-playing, class discussions and group leadership experiences to apply concepts in practice. In addition, students propose strategies to improve community mental health services and complete a community education program on mental health.

OT 604L  Psych Aspects Occup Perf Lab    0 sem. hrs.

OT 606  Occ-Based Prac & Rehab in Peds    4 sem. hrs.

Pediatric occupational therapy is a diverse practice area that addresses the developmental and functional needs of children and adolescents across school, home, rehabilitative, and non-traditional settings. Students examine pediatric conditions, developmental theory, play, sensory processing, handwriting, and interventions for a variety of diagnoses. Emphasis is placed on family-centered practices, interprofessional collaboration, and culturally responsive care. Through experiential learning, students apply evaluation, intervention planning,and outcome measurement to promote participation and well-being of infants, children, adolescents, and families.

OT 606L  Therapeutic Interv in Ped Lab    0 sem. hrs.

OT 608  TherapApproachOT:FrAssestoInte    4 sem. hrs.

This course builds on prior foundational knowledge of human structure and movement to advance students' ability to analyze and apply therapeutic approaches in occupational therapy practice. Students will integrate skills in a range of motion (ROM), manual muscle testing (MMT), and biomechanics to examine human movement, identify barriers to functional independence, and develop intervention strategies. Content emphasizes the use of standardized and non-standardized assessments, monitoring of vital signs, safe handling during functional mobility and transfers, and application of therapeutic techniques including wheelchair positioning, seating, mobility training, and the selection and use of assistive technology and durable medical equipment to support optimal occupational performance.

OT 608L  Biomech in Occup Therapy Lab    0 sem. hrs.

OT 610  Neuroscience for Occup Therapy    3 sem. hrs.

This course covers the autonomic, central and peripheral nervous systems with a focus on critical components of the central nervous system and their relationship to common conditions seen in occupational therapy.

OT 612  Level 1A Fieldwork    2 sem. hrs.

Level 1 Fieldwork provides students with an introduction to occupational therapy practice while continuing their academic coursework. These experiences enrich didactic learning through directed observation and guided participation in the occupational therapy process across diverse practice settings serving clients of all ages, diagnoses, and populations. The primary goals are to apply knowledge to practice, develop an understanding of client needs, and begin cultivating the professional and clinical skills necessary for success in Level II Fieldwork. Students engage as observers and participants, rather than independent practitioners, to develop beginning-level competencies and apply theoretical concepts to practical experiences. Walsh OT students complete three Level I Fieldwork experiences that are strategically designed to integrate academic coursework with practice application (ACOTE Standard C.1.11.). These experiences serve to promote professional growth, clinical reasoning, and readiness for more advanced fieldwork practice such as Level II Fieldwork. Level I-A introduces psychosocial and community-based practice with emphais on mental health, wellness, and community participation.

OT 614  Oc-BasPrac&RehebAdultPhysDysf    4 sem. hrs.

This course examines the occupational performance of adults, older adults, and geriatric populations, with attention to the physical, cognitive, and psychological changes associated with aging. Students analyze how environmental, social and policy contexts influence engagement in meaningful occupations, including work, retirement. leisure, care-giving, and end-of-life experiences. Students will select evaluations and intervention techniques specific to the adult population. Learning activities integrate applied practice to strenghten clinical reasoning, enhance communication skills, and promote effective interprofessional collaboration in rehabilitation and geriatric care setiings.

OT 614L  Ther Interventions in A&G Lab    0 sem. hrs.

OT 616  Enviro & Tech Interventions    2 sem. hrs.

This course explores how environmental contexts and technology shape occupational performance across the lifespan. Students examine universal design, environmental adaptations, and the use of assistive technology, including durable medical equipment, community mobillity strategies, and therapeutic apps to promote participaton and independence. Course content also addresses ergonomic principles, telehealth, virtual environments, and electronic medical records as tools to advance client care in diverse practice settings.

OT 618  Therapeutic Groups    2 sem. hrs.

Group interventions and dynamics are examined including theory, design, implementation and evaluation. Effective therapeutic use of self is explored. Students will develop, lead, and participate in therapeutic groups based on a variety of frames of reference for populations across the lifespan.

OT 620  Evidence-based Practice I    2 sem. hrs.

Students explore the foundations of evidence-based practice as they apply to contemporary occupational therapy. The course introduces research methodology, including qualitative and quantitative designs, principles of critical appraisal, and the hierarchy of evidence. Students strengthen database search strategies, refine scholarly writing in APA style, and demonstrate an understanding of ethical policies and procedures essential to human-subject, educational, and population health-research. They also locate, analyze, and critique research to evaluate study validity, methodological rigor, and relevance to occupational therapy, thereby contributing to evidence-based decision making the the development of the profession's body of knowlege.

OT 622  Level IB Fieldwork    2 sem. hrs.

Level 1 Fieldwork provides students with an introduction to occupational therapy practice while continuing their academic coursework. These experiences enrich didactic learning through directed observation and guided participation in the occupational therapy process across diverse practice settings serving clients of all ages, diagnoses, and populations. The primary goals are to apply knowledge to practice, develop an understanding of client needs, and begin cultivating the professional and clinical skills necessary for success in Level II Fieldwork. Students engage as observers and participants, rather than independent practitioners, to develop beginning-level competencies and apply theoretical concepts to practical experiences. Walsh OT students complete three Level I Fieldwork experiences that are strategically designed to integrate academic coursework with practice application (ACOTE Standard C.1.11.). These experiences serve to promote professional growth, clinical reasoning, and readiness for more advanced fieldwork practice such as Level II Fieldwork. Level I-B emphasizes adult and physical dysfunction practice with focus on rehabilitation, functional mobility, and occupational engagement.

OT 624  Evidence-based Practice II    2 sem. hrs.

This course emphasizes the development of skills needed to critically analyze and apply evidence to occupational therapy practice. Students demonstrate the use of quantitative and qualitative methods for evaluating research and practice-based evidence. Scholarly activities are integrated to align with current research priorities and to advance knowledge translation, professional practice, service delivery, and professional issues. Emphasis is placed on engaging with multiple forms of scholarship, including discovery, integration, applicaiton, and teaching and learning. As a culminating activity, students complete a literature review that requires analysis and synthesis of data to contribute to the evidence base of the profession.

OT 626  OT Mgmt and Leadership    2 sem. hrs.

This course prepares students to assume leadership roles in occupational therapy practice through the exploration of management principles, effective leadership styles, and strategies for professional growth. Students analyze personal and professional strengths and develop individualized plans for long-term career objectives, well-being, and advocacy consistent with professional standards. Course content emphasizes the influence of contextual factors, federal and state policy, and reimbursement systems on service delivery across settings and populations. Learner gain practical skills in documentation to justify occupational therapy services, utilization of reimbursement and funding mechanisms, and application of coding and appeals processes. Business and administrative topics include strategic planning, financial management, liability issues, and the development of business plans to support evolving practice models. Students engage in program evaluation methods, formative and summative, to assess outcomes and guide quality improvement. Instruction also addresses grant writing as a fiscal resource, program development, staffing models, and service promotion. Through case studies, projects, and advocacy initiatives, students acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to lead, manage, and advance occupational therapy services while promoting occupational justice.

OT 628  Neuro-Cognitive Rehab    2 sem. hrs.

Students will actively evaluate neurological impairments, analyze the impact on occupational performance, and design intervention strategies to improve function. Administering and interpreting assessments, developing individualized treatment plans with measurable goals, implementing evidence-based, occupation-centered interventions, and creating comprehensive discharge plans are key components. Emphasis is placed on applying research-supported approaches to cognition, vision, perception, and vestibular rehabilitation from the occupational therapy perspective.

OT 630  Advanced Clinical Reasoning    3 sem. hrs.

Students integrate prior knowledge to advance clinical reasoning and communication skills in preparation for Level II Fieldwork. Emphasis is placed on explaining the distinct nature of occupation and its evidence base to diverse communities, while developing client-centered, culturally relevant, and evidence-informed interventions that address client factors, performance skills, and performance patterns. Students apply prevention, promotion, restoration, and maintenance strategies, report evaluation findings to clients and interprofessional teams, and participate in collaborative, population-centered care. Principles of instructional design are applied through the development of learning objectives, instructional materials, assessment methods, professional presentations, and self-reflection. Students evaluate quality management and program evaluation processes to demonstrate service effectiveness and integrate role play, case studies, and simulation experiences to apply and defend the occupational therapist's role in evidence based, client-centered practice.

OT 632  Level IC Fieldwork    2 sem. hrs.

Level 1 Fieldwork provides students with an introduction to occupational therapy practice while continuing their academic coursework. These experiences enrich didactic learning through directed observation and guided participation in the occupational therapy process across diverse practice settings serving clients of all ages, diagnoses, and populations. The primary goals are to apply knowledge to practice, develop an understanding of client needs, and begin cultivating the professional and clinical skills necessary for success in Level II Fieldwork. Students engage as observers and participants, rather than independent practitioners, to develop beginning-level competencies and apply theoretical concepts to practical experiences. Walsh OT students complete three Level I Fieldwork experiences that are strategically designed to integrate academic coursework with practice application (ACOTE Standard C.1.11.). These experiences serve to promote professional growth, clinical reasoning, and readiness for more advanced fieldwork practice such as Level II Fieldwork. Level I-C focuses on pediatric and school-based practice with emphasis on development, play, and family-centered care.

OT 650  OTClinFdLab: Intro Prof & Prac    2 sem. hrs.

This course provides foundational instruction in the essential clinical and professional skills required for occupational therapy practice. Students engage in hands-on learning experiences to develop competencies in observation, documentation, client communication, and therapeutic use of self. Emphasis is placed on safety, ethical decision-making, infection control, and professional behavior expected in clinical settings. Learners practice the application of fundamental techniques including range of motion, manual muscle testing, and use of preparatory modalities and orthotic fabrication to enhance occupational performance Through guided lab activities, simulations, and skill assessments, students integrate theoretical concepts with emerging clinical reasoning to prepare for participation in future fieldwork and advanced pracitce courses.

OT 651  Skill Integ Lab: Eval & Interv    2 sem. hrs.

This hands-on laboratory course integrates foundational and applied occupational therapy skills in evaluation, intervention, and professional reasoning across the continuum of practice. Students actively engage in the administration and interpretation of standardized and non-standardized assessments to evaluate client factors, performance skills, and occupational performance within authentic clinical scenarios. Emphasis is placed on developing occupation-based intervention plans that are client-centered, culturally responsive, and evidence-informed. Learners will demonstrate compentency in implementing therapeutic activities and interventions, including occupation as a therapeutic tool, preparatory methods, adaptive equipment, and emerging technologies, to promote safety, health, wellness, and participation. Through simulation, case application, and collaboration with peers in the occupational therapy assistant role, students refine clinical reasoning, documentation, and communication skills essential for entry-level practice.

OT 652  OTCompLab: Adv Prac&FieldRead    3 sem. hrs.

This course provides students the opportunity to demonstrate entry-level competence through integrated performance assessments, simulation-based learning, and completion of the Occupational Therapy Knowlege Examination (OTKE). The course emphasizes synthesis of didactic knowlege, professional reasoning, and practical skills to ensure readiness for Level II Fieldwork and independent, ethical occupational therapy practice.

OT 660  Level II Fieldwork A    7 sem. hrs.

This course is one of two required Level II fieldwork experiences. Students will reflect on their clinical experiences and complete a project designed to integrate fieldwork learning with academic preparation. Emphasis is placed on developing entry-level practitioner skills while meeting all site-specific learning objectives.

OT 662  Level II Fieldwork B    7 sem. hrs.

This course is one of two required Level II fieldwork experiences. Students will reflect on their clinical experiences and complete a culminating project that demonstrates the integration of advanced fieldwork learning with academic preparation. By the end of the semester, students are expected to achieve entry-level competency as determined through assessment of fieldwork performance and collaboration with the Academic Fieldwork Coordinator.