Faculty
Elizabeth A. Barstow, Assistant Professor (Occupational Therapy); Low-Vision Rehabilitation, Neurodevelopmental Intervention, Functional Capacity Evaluations, Driver’s Assessment
Anthony "Deek" Cunningham, Assistant Professor (Occupational Therapy); Mental Health, Pedicatrics, Burns and Trauma
Stephanie C. DeLuca, Assistant Professor (Occupational Therapy); Research and Development of New and Efficacious Treatment Techniques for Children with Neuromotor Disorders.
Christopher Eidson, Assistant Professor (Occupational Therapy), Academic Coordinator of Fieldwork Education
Kathleen Foley, Assistant Professor (Occupational Therapy); Physical Dysfunction, Gerontology, Pathophysiology
Gavin Jenkins, Assistant Professor (Occupational Therapy); Assistive Technology and the Built Environment
Jan A. Rowe, Department Chair and Associate Professor (Occupational Therapy); Pediatrics, Community Practice, Tourette syndrome clinic
Laura K. Vogtle, Professor (Occupational Therapy); Pediatrics, Research Methods, Program Evaluation, Outcomes Research
Mary Warren, Associate Professor (Occupational Therapy); Low-Vision Rehabilitation, Neurology, Physical Dysfunction
Hon Yuen, Professor and Director of Research
Program Information
MSOT Occupational Therapy
The Department of Occupational Therapy at the University of Alabama at Birmingham offers two master’s degree programs, a graduate certificate in low vision (the only one of its kind in the country); a PhD program; and a 3:2 program. The entry-level master's degree program in occupational therapy is for individuals who hold a baccalaureate degree in a field other than occupational therapy.
Professional Degree Program
The MSOT entry-level is a full-time day program.
Accreditation
The program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), located at 4720 Montgomery Lane, PO Box 31220, Bethesda, MD 20824-1220; telephone: (301)652-AOTA.
Credentials Conferred
The Master of Science degree is awarded by the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Professional Certification
Graduates of the program are eligible to sit for the national occupational therapist certification examination administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). After successful completion of the exam, the individual will be an Occupational Therapist, Registered (OTR). Most states require licensure in order to practice; however, state licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT Certification Examination.
Applicants should be aware that fieldwork placement sites, professional licensing agencies and prospective employers frequently require criminal history disclosures and background checks, although convictions do not necessarily disqualify someone for licensure or employment. Applicants with criminal convictions should recognize that such convictions may impede eventual licensure or employment and that the University of Alabama at Birmingham cannot predict the future decisions of fieldwork sites, licensing agencies, or employers.
Length of Study
Entry level program: Minimum of 7 semesters (2 1/2 years) as a full-time student.
Program Entrance Date
Fall semester of each year a new class is enrolled.
Application Deadline
See Occupational Therapy Entry Level Admissions Checklist at the top of the page.
International Students
See Occupational Therapy Entry Level Admissions Checklist at the top of the page--In addition to the following items:
Complete and submit UAB Graduate School International application;
- Request one (1) official transcript to be mailed by the issuing institution to the UAB Graduate School;
- A transcript evaluation from World Education Services (www.wes.org) or Educational Credential Evaluators (www.ece.org) is required;
- Students from countries where English is not the official and primary language must take and receive an acceptable score on the TOEFL or the IELTS;
- Submit official TOEFL test score: Institution code: 1856 or official IELTS score (provide the Graduate School's mailing address to the testing company/center; and
- Mail Financial affidavit of Support
Requirements for Admission
Selection into the program will be based on the student's academic performance record and aptitude for a career as an occupational therapist. The candidate must satisfy the following requirements:
- hold a baccalaureate degree in a discipline other than occupational therapy from an accredited college or university; or receive a baccalaureate degree in a discipline other than occupational therapy by the time of enrollment.
- have a minimum overall undergraduate GPA of 3.0 (A = 4.0)
- have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 (A = 4.0) in the prerequisite coursework;
- participate in a personal interview with members of the faculty of the Department of Occupational Therapy. The interview is scheduled once the application is received; and the steps outlined under Application Procedures completed.
Variations in these requirements are considered. In cases where applicants do not meet the principle requirements for admission, they may be admitted on probation with approval of the Dean of the Graduate School.
Procedures Following Acceptance
Once admitted, students will be allowed to enroll into the program in the desired entry year only if the following requirements are met:
- Medical clearance requirements posted @ www.uab.edu/studenthealth
- Application to and acceptance by the Graduate School (online)
Received by the Department of Occupational Therapy
- signed Letter of Intent
- $300 nonrefundable tuition deposit to reserve a seat in the program (deposit will be applied to tuition)
Essential Requirements
Prior to enrollment, students must certify their ability to complete the essential tasks, with or without reasonable accommodation, associated with performing as an occupational therapy student. Reasonable accommodation refers to ways in which the University can assist students with disabilities to accomplish these tasks (for example, providing extra time to complete an examination or enhancing the sound system in a classroom). Reasonable accommodation does not mean that students with disabilities will be exempt from certain tasks; it does mean that the Department of Occupational Therapy will work with students with disabilities to determine whether there are ways to assist the student with completion of the required tasks.
After enrollment, a student with a disability who wishes reasonable accommodation contacts Disability Support Services (205) 934-4205 or (205) 934-4248 (TDD) or visits 516 Hill University Center, provides appropriate and current documentation substantiating the claimed disability, meet the requirements of a disability as described in the ADA, and identify the needed accommodation. Reasonable accommodation in classroom and in practice settings cannot be provided without the formal request and the required documentation of the ADA defined disability. (Visit http://main.uab.edu/dss )
Essential Tasks
- Students must meet class standards for course completion throughout the curriculum.
- Students must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English at a level consistent with successful course completion and development of positive client-therapist relationships.
- Students must complete readings, assignments, and other activities outside of class hours.
- Students must gather decision-making pieces of information during client assessment activities in class or in the fieldwork setting without the use of an intermediary, such as a classmate, an occupational therapy assistant, or an aide.
- Students must perform intervention activities in class or in the fieldwork setting by direct performance or by instruction and supervision of intermediaries.
- Students must apply critical thinking processes to their work in the classroom and in the fieldwork setting, exercise sound judgment in class and in fieldwork, and follow safety procedures established for each class and fieldwork setting.
- Students must have interpersonal skills as needed for productive classroom discussion, respectful interaction with classmates and faculty, and development of appropriate therapist-client relationships.
- Students must maintain personal appearance and hygiene conducive to classroom and fieldwork settings.
- Students must pass a cardiopulmonary resuscitation course at the health professional level (American Heart Association, Course C) every two years under Alabama guidelines for CPR certification.
- Students must demonstrate appropriate health status prior to enrollment, with annual updates on some items. Requirements are poasted at www.uab.edu/studenthealth.
- Students must annually complete OSHA-regulated Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure Training.
- Students must follow standards and policies specified in the Department of Occupational Therapy Student Manual, the Letter of Understanding (contract between university and fieldwork sites), and the Graduate Student Handbook. (See Section IX Fieldwork Experience for ADA issues related to fieldwork)
Program Prerequisites - UAB Equivalents*
(Course requirements are listed in semester credit hours)
The applicant must have completed successfully (minimum grade of C, courses taken pass/fail are not accepted) prerequisite coursework in addition to, or in conjunction with the baccalaureate degree. The professional occupational therapy program is a progressive and challenging curriculum. These prerequisites are designed to prepare the applicant for success once admitted into the program. To that end, applicants should pursue the highest level of preparation possible.
Written & Verbal Communications to include any combination of (6 Hours)
English Composition - EH 101, 102 |
3
|
|
Literature – EH 216, 217 or 218
|
3
|
Natural Sciences and Mathematics (20 - 23 hours) to include
Human Anatomy * - BY 115 |
4
|
|
Human Physiology * - BY 116
|
4
|
|
Statistics - MA 180, or PY 214,
|
3-4
|
|
Physics * - PH 201 + L (prerequisite-- Math 106 with grade C or better) OR Kinesiology
|
3-4
|
|
Computer Science * - CS 101+ L
|
3
|
|
Electives (e.g., Chemistry ** - CH 105 or 115+L, or Biology ** - BY 123+L)
|
3-4
|
Social and Behavioral Sciences (9 hours) to include
Abnormal Psychology * - PY 218 |
3
|
|
Developmental Psychology * - PY 212 (Human Development/Lifespan)
|
3
|
|
Electives ** (e.g., sociology or anthropology)
|
3
|
*Course must be completed within the last seven years; basic science coursework taken more than seven years ago must be repeated.
**Course must be completed within the last 10 years.
Typical Program
(Course requirements are listed in semester credit hours)
Fall Semester I |
|
OT 607 Analysis of Occupational Performance
|
(3)
|
|
OT 620 Foundations of Occupation: A&P
|
(4)
|
|
OT 667 Research Methods
|
(4)
|
|
OT 675 History and Theory of Occupation
|
(3)
|
|
OT 677 Foundations of Low Vision Rehabilitation
|
(3)
|
|
OT 688 Occupation and Health: Groups &Communities
|
(1)
|
|
OT 698 Master’s Level Non-Thesis Research
|
(1)
|
|
|
|
Spring Semester II
|
|
OT 605 Therapeutic Skills
|
(3)
|
|
OT 606 Occupation Based Practice Models
|
(3)
|
|
OT 610 Mental Health Diagnoses Across the Lifespan
|
(3)
|
|
OT 623 Foundations of Occupation: Neuroscience
|
(3)
|
|
OT 631 Foundations of Occupation: Biomechanics
|
(4)
|
|
OT 688 Occupation and Health: Groups & Communities
|
(1)
|
|
OT 698 Master’s Level Non-Thesis Research
|
(1)
|
|
|
|
Summer (12 week session) Semester III
|
|
OT 609 Barriers to Occupational Performance
|
(3)
|
|
OT 624 Occupations of Infants, Children, & Adolescents
|
(4)
|
|
OT 632 Fieldwork Seminar I
|
(1)
|
|
OT 662 Enhancing Occupational Performance: Orthotics, Prosthetics, and other Modalities
|
(4)
|
|
OT 673 Engagement in Occupations Through Technology 1
|
(3)
|
|
OT 688 Occupation and Health: Groups & Communities
|
(2)
|
|
OT 698 Master’s Level Non-Thesis Research
|
(1)
|
|
|
|
|
Fall Semester IV
|
|
|
OT 625 Occupations of Adults and Older Adults I
|
(4)
|
|
OT 633 Fieldwork Seminar II
|
(1)
|
|
OT 661 Wellbeing and Health Through Occupations
|
(3)
|
|
OT 668 Mental Health Practice in Adulthood
|
(4)
|
|
OT 674 Engagement in Occupations Through Technology II
|
(3)
|
|
OT 688 Occupation and Health: Groups & Communities
|
(1)
|
|
OT 698 Master’s Level Non-Thesis Research
|
(1)
|
|
|
|
Spring Semester V
|
|
OT 634 Seminar in Professional Readiness
|
(2)
|
|
OT 653 Using the Lit: Evidence Based Practice
|
(3)
|
|
OT 663 Promoting Occupations of Communities, Organizations, & Systems of Practice
|
(2)
|
|
OT 665 Occupations of Adults and Older Adults II
|
(4)
|
|
OT 688 Occupation and Health: Groups & Communities
|
(2)
|
|
OT 698 Master's Level Non-Thesis Research
|
(2)
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
Summer Semester VI
|
|
|
OT 685 Advanced Field Experience I
|
(10)
|
|
|
|
|
Fall Semester VII
|
|
|
OT 686 Advanced Field Experience II
|
(10)
|
A minimum total of six credit hours Master’s Level Non-Thesis Research must be completed to meet graduation requirements.
For further information contact: Program Director
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy
School of Health Professions
SHPB 353
1530 3rd Avenue South
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, AL 35294-1212
Telephone 205-934-5982
E-mail msot@uab.edu
Web www.uab.edu/OT
Postprofessional Degree
Deadline for entry term(s): |
Summer semester for pediatric students; low vision students enter when low vision coursework starts
|
|
Deadline for all application materials to be in the graduate school office:
|
One semester preceding the expected semester of enrollment.
|
|
Number of evaluation forms required:
|
Three
|
|
Entrance tests
|
GRE (TOEFL and TWE also required for international applicants whose native language is not English.)
|
|
Comments
|
None
|
|
|
|
Postprofessional Occupational Therapy Program
The program offers postprofessional education to occupational therapists who wish to learn advanced theoretical, practice, and research skills. Currently two online specialization options exist for the postprofessional – low vision and pediatrics. Students interested in low vision must be accepted into the low vision certificate program prior to applying for the postprofessional master’s degree. The 33- semester hour program for both pediatrics and low vision option guides the student through coursework for the areas indicated including theory, specialty practice application, research methodology, and a final project or thesis. Elective coursework from related departments taken prior to admission may be approved for degree requirements; however, you must submit a copy of the course syllabus and the year and semester you took the course before final decisions are made regarding approval. Graduates of the program may use this degree to enter specialized areas of practice, as part of the requirements for specialty certifications, to assume leadership positions within the profession, or to prepare for doctoral level study.
Credentials Conferred
The Master of Science degree is awarded by the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Length of Study
Approximately 11 semesters are needed to complete this degree. Both the pediatric and low vision options were designed specifically for part-time online students.
Program Entrance Date
Summer semester for pediatric students. Low vision students accepted as post-professional students enter at the inception of low vision coursework.
Application Deadline and Procedure
See Occupational Therapy Postprofessional Admissions Checklist at the top of this page.
International Students
See Occupational Therapy Postprofessional Admissions Checklist at the top of this page, in addition to the items listed below:
UAB Graduate School international application
- Request one (1) official transcript to be mailed by the issuing institution to the UAB Graduate School;
- A transcript evlauation from World Education Services (www.wes.org) or Educational Credential Evaluators (www.ece.org) is required;
- Students from countries where English is not the official and primary language must take and receive an acceptable score on the TOEFL or IELTS
- Submit official TOEFL test score: (Institution code: 1856) or official IELTS score (provide the Graduate School's mailing address to the testing company/center.
For the postprofessional Master’s Degree, the occupational therapy school attended must be approved by the World Federation of Occupational Therapy.
Requirements for Admission
For unconditional acceptance, the student must satisfy the following requirements:
- a baccalaureate degree in occupational therapy from an accredited educational program with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (A = 4.0) computed over the last 60 hours of course work,
- eligibility for licensure as an occupational therapist in the United States
- an acceptable score on each section of the GRE general test,
- completed application for admission to the UAB Graduate School,
- three letters of reference,
- if accepted, complete the UAB medical requirements posted at www.uab.edu/studenthealth.
Essential Requirements
After acceptance and prior to enrollment into online programs, students must certify their ability to complete the essential tasks, with or without reasonable accommodation, associated with performing as an occupational therapy student. Reasonable accommodation refers to ways in which the University can assist students with disabilities to accomplish these tasks (for example, providing extra time to complete an examination or enhancing the sound system in a classroom). Reasonable accommodation does not mean that students with disabilities will be exempt from certain tasks; it does mean that the Department of Occupational Therapy will work with students with disabilities to determine whether there are ways to assist the student with completion of the required tasks.
After enrollment, a student with a disability who wishes reasonable accommodation contacts Disability Support Services (205) 934-4205 or (205) 934-4248 (TDD) or visits 516 Hill University Center, provides appropriate and current documentation substantiating the claimed disability, meet the requirements of a disability as described in the ADA, and identify the needed accommodation. Reasonable accommodation in classroom and in practice settings cannot be provided without the formal request and the required documentation of the ADA defined disability. (Visit http://main.uab.edu/dss).
Essential Tasks
- Students must meet class standards for course completion throughout the curriculum.
- Students must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English at a level consistent with successful course completion.
- Students must complete readings, assignments, and other activities outside of class hours.
- Students must apply critical thinking processes to their work in the classroom and exercise sound judgment in class during online discussions.
- Students must have interpersonal skills as needed for productive classroom discussion, and respectful interaction with classmates and faculty.
- Students must demonstrate appropriate health status prior to enrollment, with annual updates on some items.
- Students must follow standards and policies specified in the Department of Occupational Therapy Student Handbook, and the University of Alabama at Birmingham Directions Handbook.
- Students must adhere to all policies outlined in the Department of Occupational Therapy Student Handbook which will be displayed in the Resource section of each online course.
Postprofessional curriculum
(Course requirements are listed in semester credit hours)
Students must specify a specialty area prior to entering the program. Your stated area of interest will dictate the coursework required for completion of the post professional master’s degree. Required coursework for the Low Vision Rehab Graduate Certificate (15 hours) can be viewed at www.uab.edu/lowvision
Students in both programs need to complete the following courses:
*OT 642 Research Design in OT (1-3)
*OT 643 Data Analysis in OT Research (1-3)
*OT 644 Project Dissemination-Professional Writing and Presentation (1-3)
OT 647 Leadership in Occupational Therapy (2)
OT 653 Using the Lit: Evidence-Based Practice (3)
OT 658 Foundations of Professional Education (4)
OT 667 Research Methods (3)
OT 692 Selected Topics in OT (1-3)
* Courses designed for final project completion
Courses specifically for the pediatric specialty are:
OT 613 Sensory Integration Theory Applied in OT (2)
OT 614 Role of OT in School Setting (3)
OT 615 Infant-Toddler Mental Health OT Intervention (3)
OT 616 OT Role in Early Intervention (3)
OT 641 Pediatric Theory Development and Practice (3)
OT 645 Social Impact of Pediatric Disability (3)
OT 646 Leagal and Policy Issues in Pediatric Occupational Therapy (3)
OT 648 Assistive Technology in Pediatric Occupational Therapy (3)
OT 671 The Advanced Theory of the Assessment Process in Occupational Therapy (3)
OT 680 Clinical Education and Supervision (3)
OT 681 Practicum in Consultation (1-2)
OT 682 Advanced Clinical Practicum (1-3)
OT 683 Practicum in Teaching (1-4)
Electives offered outside of the occupational therapy curriculum in programs at UAB are allowed with the permission of the advisor. Up to 12 hours of coursework taken at other institutions may apply as well but must be approved by the student's advisor and must be completed with a grade of B or better. A copy of the course syllabus is required for approval.
For further information contact:
Laura K. Vogtle, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA
Program Director
Occupational Therapy Postprofessional Program
UAB School of Health Professions
SHPB-338
1530 3rd Avenue South
Birmingham, AL 35294-1212
Telephone 205-934-3568
E-mail lvogtle@uab.edu
Low Vision Rehabilitation, Graduate Certificate
The Graduate Certificate in Low Vision Rehabilitation is a practice oriented certificate degree program that prepares occupational therapists to provide comprehensive, competent intervention to adults with visual impairement from age related eye diseases and brain injury. The program is designed for occupational therapists already working in low vision rehabilitation; those interested in starting low vision rehabilitation programs; and those just interested in expanding their practice skills. The program's flexible web-based distance format allows occupational therapists across the United States and other English speaking countries to obtain these skills while working full time.
Credentials Conferred
The Graduate Certificate in Low Vision Rehabilitation awarded by the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Length of Study
The certificate requires 5 semesters to complete; students take 1 course per semester. Two co-horts of students are admitted each academic year-one for the fall semester and one for the spring semester.
Program Entrance Date
Spring Semester (begins in January) or Fall semester (begins in August)
Requirements for Admission
Students are selected based on a combination of factors including practice experience, desire, ability to successfully complete the coursework in the timeframe allotted, commitment to completion of the certificate and potential for employment in the low vision rehabilitation field.
Essential Requirements
After acceptance and prior to enrollment into online programs, students must certify their ability to complete the essential tasks, with or without reasonable accommodation, associated with performing as an occupational therapy student. Reasonable accommodation refers to ways in which the University can assist students with disabilities to accomplish these tasks (for example, providing extra time to complete an examination or enhancing the sound system in a classroom). Reasonable accommodation does not mean that students with disabilities will be exempt from certain tasks; it does mean that the Department of Occupational Therapy will work with students with disabilities to determine whether there are ways to assist the student with completion of the required tasks.
After enrollment, a student with a disability who wishes reasonable accommodation contacts Disability Support Services (205) 934-4205 or (205) 934-4248 (TDD) or visits 516 Hill University Center, provides appropriate and current documentation substantiating the claimed disability, meet the requirements of a disability as described in the ADA, and identify the needed accommodation. Reasonable accommodation in classroom and in practice settings cannot be provided without the formal request and the required documentation of the ADA defined disability. (Visit http://main.uab.edu/dss).
Essential Tasks
- Students must meet class standards for course completion throughout the curriculum.
- Students must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English at a level consistent with successful course completion and development of positive client-therapist relationships.
- Students must complete readings, assignments, and other activities outside of class hours.
- Students must gather decision-making pieces of information during client assessment activities.
- Students must perform evaluation and intervention activities in class by direct performance.
- Students must apply critical thinking processes to their work in the classroom.
- Students must have interpersonal skills as needed for productive classroom discussion, respectful interaction with classmates and faculty.
- Students must demonstrate appropriate health status prior to enrollment with annual updates on some items. Requirements found at www.uab.edu/studenthealth.
- Students must follow standards and policies specified in the Department of Occupational Therapy Student Handbook, and the University of Alabama at Birmingham Directions Handbook.
- Students must adhere to all policies outlined in the Department of Occupational Therapy Student Handbook which is posted online at http://www.uab.edu/ot/student-resources.
Application Deadline and Procedure
See Occupational Therapy Low Vision Rehabilitation Admissions Checklist at the top of the page.
International Students:
See Occupational Therapy Low Vision Rehabilitation Admissions Checklist --In addition to the following items:
- A transcript evaluation from World Education Services (www.wes.org) or Educational Credential Evaluators (www.ece.org) is required.
- Students from countries where English is not the official and primary language must also take and receive an acceptable score on the TOEFL,or IELTS.
- Submit official TOEFL test score (Institution code: 1856) or official IELTS score (provide the Graduate School's mailing address to the testing company/center
Typical Program (Course requirements are listed in semester credit hours)
The curriculum is designed with the working occupational therapist in mind. Coursework emphasizes practical application of the information taught. Projects are designed to reinforce learning of application to practice. Materials for completion of the courses can be obtained through the internet and required texts. Direct access to a medical library is not required for the core courses and most electives; but the student must have consistent access to the internet. A high-speed connection (DSL, cable, satellite) is strongly recommended.
Two Tracks Are Available:
Students who are already an occupational therapist can enroll in the certificate program only or combine completion of the certificate program with a postprofessional master’s degree in occupational therapy.
Certificate Only
On completion of the required coursework the student will be awarded a Graduate Certificate in Low Vision Rehabilitation by the University of Alabama at Birmingham and the student’s name will appear in the commencement bulletin. A transcript of the coursework taken for the certificate will be available.
The curriculum for the certificate is offered online as web-based distance education for practitioners. Students accepted into the program begin the curriculum in January or August and one course per semester is completed. Because one course builds on another, students must take the courses in sequence. Following completion of the courses, the student will complete an advanced intervention application course. All courses must be satisfactorily completed before the intervention application course is scheduled. The final course requires that the student come to the UAB campus for one weekend seminar and performance skills checkout. This is the only time the student is required to come to the UAB campus during the entire curriculum. Based on these requirements, course work for completion of the certificate will require 5 semesters.
Low Vision Rehabilitation Certificate/Postprofessional Master’s Degree Program
Students may choose to make the low vision curriculum the major emphasis of the coursework for the Postprofessional Master’s Degree offered by the Department of Occupational Therapy. Students completing the certificate program will only need to complete an additional 12 credits of coursework and 6 credits of research to receive the Postprofessional Master’s Degree. Coursework for the Postprofessional degree is also online.
LOW VISION REHABILITATION CURRICULUM
The courses must be completed sequentially in the order listed below.
The list shows the course sequence for both student cohorts—one entering the program in the spring and the other entering in the fall.
Typical OT Curriculum Course Sequence
Fall Cohort
1st Fall Semester OT 677 Foundations I 3 credits
1st Spring Semester OT 679 Foundations II 3 credits
1st Summer Semester OT 690 Foundations III 3 credits
2nd Fall Semester OT 689 Foundations in Brain Injury 3 credits
2nd Spring Semester OPEN students may take the OT 696 elective
or a course in the post professional master’s program
2nd Summer Semester OT 691 Foundations IV 3 credits
Spring Cohort
1st Spring Semester OT 677 Foundations I 3 credits
1st Summer Semester OT 679 Foundations II 3 credits
1st Fall Semester OT 690 Foundations III 3 credits
2nd Spring Semester OT 689 Foundations in Brain Injury 3 credits
Students may also take the OT 696 elective
2nd Summer Semester OT 691 Foundations IV 3 credits
Total Credits 15 credits
For further information contact:
Program Coordinator
Occupational Therapy Low Vision Rehabilitation Certificate Program
UAB School of Health Professions
SHPB 353
1530 3rd Avenue South
Birmingham, AL 35294-1212
Telephone 205-934-3568
E-mail lvrcert@uab.edu
Web www.uab.edu/OT
Course Descriptions
Occupational Therapy (OT)
605. Therapeutic Skills. Group theory and group dynamics are presented. Basic group and individual client-therapist interaction skills are introduced including: selecting a theory base, designing groups, writing group protocols, analyzing group activities, implementing specific group techniques, and evaluating progress of group members. Methods of establishing rapport, giving feedback, and employing therapeutic use of self are emphasized. 3 hours. PREREQUISITE: Admission to OT Program.
606. Occupation Based Practice Models. Introduction to fundamental concepts of occupational therapy frameworks, theory, philosophy, conceptual models and models of practice. 3 hours. PREREQUISITE: Admission to OT Program.
607. Analysis of Occupational Performance. Introduction to intervention techniques commonly used in occupational therapy practice; activity analysis and synthesis; application of typical growth and development in relationship to different age groups and populations. 3 hours. PREREQUISITE: Admission to OT Program.
609. Barriers to Occupational Performance. Exposure to content specific to human disease processes, injuries, and developmental or inherited abnormalities within body systems that affect an individual's occupational performance. 3 hours. PREREQUISITE: Admission to OT Program.
610. Mental Health Diagnoses Across the Lifespan. Examines developmental and psychiatric conditions that result from disease, congenital, traumatic, environmental or social processes. Relationships among disease or disorder, impairments, activity limitations and participation restrictions are emphasized in terms of the impact upon occupational performance. 3 hours. PREREQUISITE: Admission to OT Program.
620. Foundations of Occupation: A & P. Designed to provide occupational therapy students a fundamental knowledge of human anatomy. An emphasis will be placed on the musculo-skeletal and peripheral nervous systems to enhance the understanding of conditions that will likely be encountered in the practice of occupational therapy. 4 hours. PREREQUISITE: Admission to OT Program.
623. Foundations of Occupation: Neuroscience. Advanced study of structure and function of central nervous system augmented with client examples. 3 hours. PREREQUISITE: Admission to the OT Program.
624. Occupations of Infants, Children, and Adolescents. This course addresses aspects of evaluation, intervention planning, implementation, and specific intervention strategies across diagnostic categories for children, birth through adolescents. Occupational therapy addresses client needs using a holistic approach that incorporates all aspects of an individual's lifestyle. This course will focus on components of occupational performance, and occupational performance issues related to adaptation and life satisfaction. 4 hours. PREREQUISITE: Admission to OT Program.
625. Occupations of Adults and Older Adults I. This course addresses aspects of evaluation, intervention planning, implementation, and specific intervention strategies across diagnostic categories in adult and elder rehabilitation. Occupational therapy addresses client needs using a holistic approach that incorporates all aspects of an individual's lifestyle. This course will focus on occupational areas of work play, and leisure addressing components of occupational performance and context s and how these areas affect occupational performance. 4 hours. PREREQUISITE: Admission to OT Program.
631. Foundations of Occupation: Biomechanics. Basic kinesiological principles and functional movement patterns of the human body during occupational performance. Study of principles and techniques for obtaining data about the status of the clients' joint range of motion and muscle strength. 4 hours. PREREQUISITE: Admission to OT Program.
632, 633. Fieldwork Seminar I, II. Forum for exchange of ideas and experiences; detailed case study/inservice on modality and intervention chosen from client census during previous term's Level I Fieldwork experience. 1 hour each. PREREQUISITE: Admission to OT Program.
634. Seminar in Professional Readiness. Forum for exchange of ideas and experiences; student, faculty, and alumni presentations on variety of topics. 2 hours. PREREQUISITE: Admission to OT Program.
653. Using the Literature for Evidence Based Practice. History of and rationale for evidence-based practice, introduction to typologies of evidence, search of databases, developing questions for occupational therapy practice, critiquing evidence, analyzing bodies of evidence developed from research questions, and integrating evidence into practice. 3 hours. PREREQUISITE: Admission to OT Program.
661. Wellbeing and Health Through Occupation. Course will evaluate and critique the evidence which supports the relationship between occupation, health promotion, lifestyle choices, and prevention of injury and disease, using occupational therapy models and approaches to practice while considering contexts. 3 hours.
662. Enhancing Occupational Performance: Modalities. This course will provide the opportunity to consider the occupational therapy process related to the design, fabrication, application, fitting, and training in the use of orthotics, prosthetics, and other modalities. Students will consider and apply the foundational knowledge, underlying principles, indications, contraindications, and precautions necessary for evidence-based practice. 3 hours. PREREQUISITE: Admission to OT Program.
663. Promoting Occupations of Communities, Organizations, and Systems of Practice. Course provides opportunities to evaluate and critique evidence for current and emerging areas of OT practice within organizations, systems, and ommunities. Students will evaluate current OT practice and identify potential service gaps. Students will critically discuss strategies for development of OT services emphasizing the business related aspects of working with arenas. 2 hours. PREREQUISITE: Admission to OT Program.
665. Occupations of Adults and Older Adults II. Intervention for the elderly from the perspective of the functional impact of age-related changes, evaluation and remediation of functional limitations and personal and environmental adaptations to promote continuing autonomy. 4 hours. PREREQUISITE:Admission to OT Program.
667. Research Methods. Research ethics, descriptive, exploratory and experimental design, basic statistical concepts, and discussion of various types of research to enable student to critically analyze and use scientific literature to improve practice. Emphasis will be placed on understanding components of the research report and concepts associated with judging of internal and external validity.3-4 hours. PREREQUISITE: Admission to OT Program
668. Mental Health Practice in Adulthood. Examines mental health conditions that result from disease, congenital, traumatic, environmental or social processes. Relationships among impairments, activity limitations and participation restrictions are emphasized in terms of the impact upon occupational performance. Evaluation, intervention planning, and intervention are studied. 4 hours. PREREQUISITE: Admission to OT Program.
673. Engagement in Occupations Through Technology I. Acquaints students with the following: theories relative to assistive technology, client centered practice, OT process relative to assistive technology, and certification and laws affecting assistive technology. Students will consider technology applications relative to the areas of occupation as referenced in the Framework for OT Practice, as well as elements of safety, education of clients and families, and the roles of OTs and OTAs in assistive technology practice. 3 hours.
674. Engagement in Occupation Through Technology II. This course is designed to acquaint the student with assessments used in evaluation of clients for assistive technology, specific intervention strategies, elements of safety related to assistive technology, the education of clients and families and other key people in the context of the user. The roles of OTs and OTAs in assistive technology practice will also be addressed. 3 hours. PREREQUISITE: Admission to OT Program.
675. History and Theory of Occupation. A historical survey of occupation, occupational meaning, and purposeful activity as used by occupational therapists in the study of the occupational nature of human beings across the life span. Students will gain an understanding of how leaders of the profession articulate occupational and therapeutic applications across time. 3 hours. PREREQUISITE: Admission to OT Program.
677. Foundations in Low Vision Rehabilitation I. Introduces the student to the field of low vision rehabilitation and addresses core knowledge needed for subsequent courses. Topics include settings and reimbursement for occupational therapy services, anatomy and physiology of the eye and visual system, medical conditions causing low vision, administration and interpretation of low vision exams, principles of optics, design and application of optical devices. 4 hours. PREREQUISITE: permission.
685. Advanced Fieldwork Experience I. Full-time supervised practice experience designed to develop entry-level professional skills consisting of a 3-month experience. 10 hours. PREREQUISITE: Admission to OT Program.
686. Advanced Fieldwork Experience II. Full-time supervised practice experience designed to develop entry-level professional skills consist of a 3-month experience. 10 hours. PREREQUISITE: Admission to OT Program.
688. Occupation & Health: Groups & Communities. This course will provide opportunities to reflect upon the facilitating and inhibiting nature of group and community settings and to consider the domains and contexts of both occupation and its influence on health, well-being, and lifestyle. 1-6 hours. PREREQUISITE: Admission to OT Program.
698. Master's Level Non-Thesis Research. Non-thesis research hours. (6 hours total). PREREQUISITE: Admission to OT Program.
LOW VISION / POSTPROFESSIONAL COURSES
613. Sensory Integration Theory Applied in OT. Sensory processing is the ability to take in, organize and process a variety of sensory information on a daily basis. This class will illustrate how children with a variety of disorders, but in particular those with autism, have difficulties with the processing of sensory information. 2 hours (online). PREREQUISITE: permission.
614. Role OT in School Setting. Explores legislation which mandates a free and accessible education in the public setting. Will discuss frequently used evaluations and intervention strategies in the school setting and the evidence which supports/refutes both. Coursework will be supplemented by hands on experience in a variety of ways. 3 houres (online). PREREQUISITE: permission.
615. Infant/Toddler Mental Health: OT Intervention. Infant and toddler mental health is central to the work of an occupational therapist, both individually and with the treatment team. The field of mental health for infants and toddlers has expanded greatly over the past ten years. OT clinicians are exposed to neglected, abused, and even abandoned babies/children but the depth of mental health problems is more extensive. This course will provide an overview and in-depth look at these problems and designated evaluation and intervention. 3 hours (online). PREREQUISITE: permission.
616. OT’s Role in Early Intervention. Babies, toddlers, and school age children with developmental disabilities may qualify for services (state and federal) which include occupational therapy. It is important to thoroughly understand state and federal legislation which applies to children with special needs for those wanting to practice in pediatrics. 3 hours (online). PREREQUISITE: permission.
641. Pediatric Theory Dev/Practice. Students will explore various models which support pediatric practice. The models will include developmental, behavioral and occupational therapy domains. Through course text and readings from referred literature, students will engage in online discussions to better their understanding of theory development conceptual order, theoretical assumptions, and applicability to practice. 3 hours (online). PREREQUISITE: permission.
642. Research Design in OT. First of three courses in which post professional master’s students will design, implement, and document their final project. This course will review research methodologies appropriate for use by clinicians in practice; discuss sampling; data management; and IRB training and approval. 1-3 hours. (online). PREREQUISITE: permission.
643. Data Analysis in OT Research. Second of three courses in which post professional master’s students will design, implement, analyze, and document their final project. This course addresses data management and data analysis using SPSS. 1-3 hours (online). PREREQUISITE: permission.
644. Project Dissemination-Prof Writing and Presentation. Third course in which post professional master’s students will design, implement, and document their final project. This course will address documentation of project outcomes, writing for publication, and professional presentation. 1-3 hours (online). PREREQUISITE: permission.
645. Social Impact of Pediatric Disability. Course will explore ramifications of disabling conditions of birth or childhood on the child and family members. The potential roles of the extended family, neighborhood, local community and society at large in the development of the child and evolution of the family will be investigated. The impact of different cultural beliefs on social development will be discussed. 3 hours (online). PREREQUISITE: permission.
646. Legal and Policy Issues in Pediatric Occupational Therapy. The scope of practice for all occupational therapists has expanded greatly in the past 15 years. This is especially true in the area of pediatrics with new advances in medicine, technology and social policy. This course will explore the OT’s role with a multitude of pediatric issues starting with planned conception and continuing through the twenty first year of life. 3 hours (online). PREREQUISITE: permission.
647. Leadership in Occupational Therapy. To develop leadership competencies for the occupational therapist to enable understanding of personal development and organizational change dynamics. This course will explore aspects of leadership as they relate to the OT profession. 3 hours.
648. Assistive Technology in Pediatric OT. Assistive technology includes a broad range of devices, services, strategies, and practices used to compensate, remediate, or enhance functional performance of occupations for individuals with disabilities. This course will provide a foundation of knowledge and skills for occupational therapists to critically analyze and apply assistive technology principles with pediatric clients. 3 hours.
653. Using Lit: Evidence-Based Practice. History of and rationale for evidence-based practice, introduction of typoloties of evidence, search of databases, developing questions for occupational therapy practice, critiquing evidence, analyzing bodies of evidence developed in response to research questions, and integrating evidence into practice. 3 hours.
658. Foundations of Professional Education. Introduction to occupational therapy postprofessional education. Concepts introduced include the World Health Organization’s International Classification of Function, Occupational Therapy Practice Framework, the American Psychological Association writing framework, and the continuing competency aspects of the American Occupational Therapy Association’s Professional Development Tool. 4 hours (online). PREREQUISITES: permission.
671. The Advanced Theory of the Assessment Process in Occupational Therapy. This course provides an overview of tests and measurements as related to the practice of occupational therapy. Principles of test design and construction are introduced along with the appropriate statistical concepts. Issues related to standardized and non-standardized testing are discussed in terms of reliability, validity, sensitivity, specificity, and clinical relevance. The major types of instruments, interviews, questionnaires, observations, and outcome and performance measures. Students are given the opportunity to develop skills in selection of appropriate assessment tools for clients in administration and scoring, in test interpretation, and in communicating results. 3 hours. Prerequisite: permission of instructor.
677. Foundations in Low Vision Rehabilitation I. Introduces the student to the field of low vision rehabilitation and addresses core knowledge needed for subsequent courses. Topics include settings and reimbursement for occupational therapy services, anatomy and physiology of the eye and visual system, medical conditions causing low vision, administration and interpretation of low vision exams, principles of optics, design and application of optical devices. 3-4 hours. PREREQUISITE: permission.
679. Foundations in Low Vision Rehabilitation II. Building on the information provided in OT 677, this course addresses specific treatment strategies to enhance occupational performance in persons with visual impairment. Students learn to use information obtained from evaluations to design appropriate treatment interventions. Topics covered: assistive technology and computer modifications, reading, writing, and environmental assessment/modification. 3-4 hours. PREREQUISITE: permission.
680. Clinical Education and Supervision. Departmental management and supervision of employees with secondary focus on occupational therapy fieldwork supervision. 3 hours. PREREQUISITE: permission.
681. Practicum in Consultation. Supervised consultation experience within area of specialized interest. 1-2 hours. PREREQUISITE: permission.
682. Advanced Clinical Practicum. Supervised clinical experience within area of specialized interest. 1-3 hours. PREREQUISITE: permission.
683. Practicum in Teaching. Supervised teaching experience. 1-4 hours. PREREQUISITE: permission.
689. Foundations in Treatment of Visual Impairment from Brain Injury.This course addresses evaluation and intervention for adults experiencing occupational limitations secondary to visual processing impairment from acquired brain injury. Topics include neuroanatomy of the visual processing system, evaluation and intervention for deficits in visual acuity, visual field deficits, evaluation and intervention for deficits in oculomotor function, and evaluation and intervention for deficits in visual attention and cognitive processing. 3 hours. PREREQUISITE: permission.
690. Foundations in Low Vision Rehabilitation III. Building on the information provided in OT 679, this course teaches students to apply intervention strategies to enhance occupational performance. Topics include: completing activities of daily living with and without vision, functional mobility, diabetes self management, and driving and transportation. 3 hours. Prerequisite: permission of instruction.
691. Foundations in Low Vision Rehabilitation IV. As the final course in the curriculum sequence, students demonstrate their ability to apply the knowledge gained in the previous foundation courses to selecting and interpreting evaluations and designing interventions for adults with various impairments. Content provided: review and synthesis of key evaluation and intervention principles for working with persons with age-related vision impairment and brain injury; practicum in diabetes self-management, functional mobility and assistive technology; influence of policy and regulation on practice; occupational justice and advocacy; developing and marketing low vision rehabilitation programs within the health care system; professional development and continuing professional competence. 3 hours
692. Directed Readings. Readings for in depth study of specialized topics. 1-3 hours. PREREQUISITE: permission.
696. Evaluation and Treatment of Children with Visual Impairments. Taught by Linda Nobles, MS, OTR/L, this course addresses issues related to working with children with visual impairment. Topics covered: medical conditions causing vision loss in children including optical and cortical visual impairment; evaluation techniques, optical devices, assistive technology, treatment strategies, and working with parents and school systems. 2 hours (online). PREREQUISITIES: permission.