Mission & Philosophy

The mission of the occupational Therapy Program is to prepare students to be knowledgeable, ethical and competent therapists. The OT Program is based on a framework that considers how biological, psychological, and socio-cultural factors influence occupational behavior. Faculty believes the study and practice of occupational therapy encompasses philosophical principles that:

• affirm the inherent value of occupation to support participation in life;
• link occupational engagement to achieving self-actualization and quality of life;
• reinforce the individual’s right to self-determination;
• support a broad definition of independence; and
• acknowledge the multifaceted needs of a diverse society.

Faculty views education as a process, where students progress in their abilities to become client-centered and evidence-based practitioners. Students are assisted in acquiring the knowledge, skills, and judgment needed for skilled and ethical practice in traditional and emerging settings through experiences that:

• incrementally challenge and expand their belief systems;
• reinforce their role and responsibility to actively engage in the learning process;
• provide multiple opportunities to practice and obtain feedback and reinforcement; and
• illustrate the dynamic relationship among health, well-being and occupational engagement through a variety of learning activities and experiences.