What is Occupational Science?
Occupational science is the study of human occupation — how we occupy our time through activity, organize ourselves by activity patterns and habits, and create meaning through occupation. Occupation is essential to a healthy and satisfying life. Occupational science is an evolving social science that studies occupation, how and why people engage in occupations, the context in which occupations occur, and the occupational performance that results. For information about occupational science, visit the Society for the Study of Occupation.
Students may combine the study of human occupation with other areas of interest through electives or a minor, including but not limited to: Horses, Humans, and Health; Psychology; Child and Family Studies; Biology; Community Health; Gerontology; and Business. Students who apply for the BS in Occupational Science are expected to progress to the OTD program. However, some may choose other graduate education options or seek employment in non-credentialed health care, education or community positions. These careers may include case manager, independent living skills coordinator, activity coordinator, medical sales representative, senior citizen program coordinator, mental health associate, and job coach for persons with developmental disabilities.
What is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational therapy is the art and science of facilitating participation in occupations. The core concepts and knowledge base of occupational therapy come from the study of human occupation. Occupational therapists use purposeful and meaningful occupations to evaluate and address the needs of individuals who have a disorder, impairment, or activity limitation that interferes with their ability to participate in daily life. Occupational therapists promote health, well-being and life satisfaction. Persons wishing to licensed and practice as an occupational therapist must have at least a Master’s degree in occupational therapy. For more information regarding Occupational Therapy please visit the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) website and this flyer from AOTA.
Information for Occupational Therapy as a Career:
Looking for a Career?
A career in occupational therapy provides solid income potential with a variety of practice setting possibilities.
What Can Occupational Therapy Do For You?
From a child with autism to a wounded warrior with a double amputation, the OT clients in this video highlight how occupational therapy looked at all aspects of their lives to help them achieve their goals.
The Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE®) of the American Occupational Therapy Association
The Occupational Therapy Program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA).
6116 Executive Boulevard, Suite 200
North Bethesda, MD 20852-4929
(301) 652-6611
Accreditation Term for the Master of Science in OT program: 3 years
Last Accreditation Date of the Master of Science in OT program: 2023
We are in the process of transitioning from an entry-level
Master of Science in OT to a Doctorate of OT (OTD).
The OTD program is in the Candidacy phase of accreditation.
OTD Timeline:
- ACOTE Candidacy Application Decision: March 2020
- First OTD class began: August 2020
- Onsite evaluation: March 4-6, 2024
- Accreditation decision: April 2024
- First OTD class graduates: August 2024
Accreditation information can be found at ACOTE Online.