Program Overview

Occupational Therapy - Advanced Standing, M.S.

The Occupational Therapy - Advanced Standing, M.S. program at the University of New Hampshire (UNH) is designed for students who have completed the undergraduate portion of the UNH occupational therapy program. This program allows students to earn a Master of Science degree in Occupational Therapy in two semesters, including fieldwork.

Program Description

The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). It prepares students for a rewarding career in occupational therapy, helping people of all ages live life to the fullest. Students learn to evaluate and treat clients using meaningful daily activities or "occupations" to promote health, independence, and well-being.

Curriculum and Requirements

The program requires 32 credits, including 16 credits of Level II Fieldwork. Students must maintain an overall GPA of 3.0 and earn a minimum of B- in all required occupational therapy courses. The curriculum includes courses such as:

• Administration and Management for Occupational Therapy Practice
• Assistive Technology for Enhancing Occupational Performance
• Fieldwork and Professionalism-Level II
• Level II Fieldwork, I and II
• Enabling Participation in Community Groups

Admissions Information

Students who are completing the undergraduate portion of the UNH occupational therapy program declare their intent to apply to the Advanced Standing MS program by the end of their sophomore year. They take professional courses as part of their baccalaureate degree requirements, enabling them to enter the MS program with Advanced Standing. Students officially apply to the Graduate School for the Advanced Standing MS Program in the spring semester of their senior year.

Application Requirements and Deadlines

Applications must be completed by the following deadlines:

• Fall: April 1
• Spring: Not applicable
• Summer: Not applicable The application fee is $65. Students must submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.

Student Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the Occupational Therapy M.S. program will:

• Demonstrate professional attitudes and behaviors in their work and interactions with clients
• Understand that engagement in meaningful occupations is essential to one's health and well-being
• Be competent entry-level OT practitioners across diverse practice settings
• Apply evidence-based practices in their work
• Demonstrate skills necessary to advance occupational justice

Disclosures

The University of New Hampshire offers a number of academic programs designed to lead to professional licensure or certification in New Hampshire. However, completing a UNH degree/program does not guarantee professional licensure or certification. Eligibility may also depend on factors like years of work experience, professional examinations, passing a background check, and other criteria.

Potential Career Areas

Graduates of the Occupational Therapy M.S. program can work in various settings, including:

• Acute care
• Administration
• Early intervention programs
• Hand therapy clinics
• Hospitals
• In-patient rehabilitation centers
• Mental health and substance use disorder programs
• Primary care settings
• School settings
• Skilled nursing facilities