Gwynedd Mercy University
AY2021-2022 Undergraduate Academic Catalog
Type : Term ( The Occupational Science program is a term degree program with course offerings in the summer , fall , and spring . The one summer term of the students ’ senior year is eight weeks in duration and does not align with the summer I or summer II schedules outlined by the university .) Modality : On Ground ( The didactic portion of the Occupational Science program is delivered on-ground .)
Program Description : During the first three years of the Occupational Science Program , students will take three years of pre-professional courses in liberal arts , health science , and occupational science . Students who qualify for entry into the professional phase of the Occupational Therapy Master ’ s Program ( see Academic Progression into Occupational Therapy Master ’ s Program below ) will take 3 terms of occupational therapy courses to complete 124 undergraduate credits and earn a BHS in Occupational Science ( see BHS in Occupational Science Graduation Requirements below ). Students will continue to take 38 graduate credits in occupational therapy courses and earn a Master of Science degree in Occupational Therapy if graduation requirements are met ( see Time to Completion of Occupational Therapy Program in the Graduate Catalog ). In summary , the entire dual degree program in Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy can be completed in 12 academic terms with 124 undergraduate credits and 38 graduate credits . Occupational Science majors will have an undergraduate advisor .
Minor in Psychology : Occupational Science students completing all required Psychology courses may be eligible to apply for and earn a minor in Psychology .
Preparation for Professional Licensure : Graduates of the dual degree 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 completion of this exam , the individual will be an Occupational Therapist , Registered ( OTR ). In addition , all states require licensure to practice ; however , state licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT ® Certification Examination . Note that a felony conviction may affect a graduate ’ s ability to sit for the NBCOT ® certification examination or attain state licensure . ACOTE accredited occupational therapy and occupational therapy assistant educational programs satisfy the states ’ educational requirements in all states , the District of Columbia , and Puerto Rico . Students graduating from an ACOTE accredited occupational therapy and occupational therapy assistant educational program are eligible to take the NBCOT ® certification exam and apply for licensure in all states , the District of Columbia , and Puerto Rico .
Program Learning Outcomes : The seven program learning outcomes for the Occupational Science Program are as follows : PLO1 Acquire , as a foundation for professional study , a breadth and depth of knowledge in the liberal arts and sciences and an understanding of issues related to diversity and disability . ; PLO2 Discuss the components of human occupation from physical , psychological , sociological , and cultural perspectives .; PLO3 Identify , describe , and apply major tenets from the discipline of occupational science to human health and disability .; PLO4 Report perceived occupational injustices for persons limited in the capacity or opportunity to engage in meaningful occupations . ; PLO5 Apply philosophical tenets of occupational science to other disciplines and professions aimed to promote health and well-being of others .; PLO6 Examine programs that promote occupational justice for individuals , groups , and populations , especially the underserved . ; PLO7 Develop intellectual and practice skills that support the philosophical and practical tenets of occupational therapy .
For major requirements : See Program Handbook and curriculum sheets .
130