Occupational Therapy
An educational program in occupational therapy is located on the Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis campus.
Description of the ProfessionOccupational therapy is the art and science of assisting people to do those activities/occupations that are important to them despite impairment, disability, or handicap. In this context, "occupation" refers to all of the everyday activities that occupy people's time and give meaning to their lives, primarily activities of daily living, education, work, play, and leisure (AOTA, 2002). Occupational therapists can work in mental health, pediatrics, geriatrics, physical disabilities, community wellness programs, work programs, or other specialty areas.
Graduates of the ProgramThe postbaccalaureate professional degree program in occupational therapy is designed to prepare the graduate to meet professional standards for occupational therapy practice. Upon completion of the program, a graduate will be expected to demonstrate entry-level competence in basic knowledge and application of physical, behavioral, and basic sciences to the practice of occupational therapy.
Graduates of the program will be eligible to sit for the National Certification Examination for the Occupational Therapist administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). After successful passage of this exam, the individual will be an Occupational Therapist, Registered (O.T.R.).
Credential Required to Practice- Initial certification as an OTR (occupational therapist, registered)
All states have laws requiring practice. Graduates must take the responsibility to ascertain and conform to the specific requirements of the state in which they plan to practice.