Occupational Science - Occupational Therapy University at Buffalo

Overview

In the first two years, a liberal arts education allows flexibility to meet student interests while preparing for study in the professional program. Once in the OT professional program, students develop clinical evaluation and intervention skills to work with individuals of all ages with physical, psychosocial, and cognitive challenges to work toward improving their health and function.  In addition, students design, develop, implement, analyze and present group research projects under the mentorship of seasoned faculty. OT students also benefit from interprofessional activities with students across the academic health center.

The Occupational Science - Occupational Therapy program of the University at Buffalo prepares students for variety of settings including medical, home care, community, vocational, educational and underserved settings that do not currently have OT. The strength of our program is evidenced by our NBCOT pass rate has been very high within one year of graduation for several years.

Program Learning Outcomes

In keeping with the vision, mission, and philosophy of the University at Buffalo, School of Public Health and Health Professions, Rehabilitation Science Department, and Occupational Therapy Program, graduates of the BS/MS program will:

• Demonstrate entry-level occupational therapist clinical skills.

• Analyze trends in occupational therapy service delivery areas, anticipate changes that may have an impact on practice, and advocate for positive change.

• Demonstrate a commitment to evidence-based practice by both utilizing and contributing to the occupational therapy body of knowledge through research, writing, presentations, or other scholarly activities.

• Value the role of occupation in public health for wellness and health promotion among individuals and populations.

• Recognize the role of culture, socioeconomic status, and other contextual factors on occupational performance and participation of all members of society and promote social and occupational justice to reduce health disparities.

• Become leaders among their peers through professional service and advocacy.

• Demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning.

Careers

As described on the American Occupational Therapy Association website, occupational therapy helps people live life to its fullest. Occupational Therapy practitioners do this by helping people of all ages who have sustained an illness, injury or some form of debilitation relearn the skills of daily living. By focusing on physical, psychological and social needs, OT helps people function at the highest possible level, concentrating on what's important to them to rebuild their health, independence and self-esteem. Occupational therapists are specially trained and credentialed in the field and rely on evidence-based best practices and science-driven data to constantly improve patient outcomes. In an era where consumers want to increasingly be empowered and maximize life's potential, more and more people are recognizing the value of occupational therapy and as a result the field is expected to grow significantly over the coming years.