Occupational Therapy Assistant

Pre-Admission Requirements – 23 Credit Hours

• BCS 165: Human Anatomy Credits: 4 ^*

  Human Anatomy

  Microscopic and macroscopic examination of the human body structures and systems are the focus of this course. Students evaluate the integration of the various systems within the entire body. The laboratory provides an opportunity for identification and evaluation of representative human models and slides and dissection of comparable mammalian organ systems.

• BCS 205: Human Physiology Credits: 4 ^*

  Human Physiology

  This course examines the organization and function of the human body as a whole and the interrelationships of the various systems. The laboratory teaches the fundamental techniques necessary for the study of life processes. Laboratory activities give the students an opportunity to illustrate principles presented in lecture.

  Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in BCS 165.
• • COM 100: Introduction to Communication Credits: 3

    Introduction to Communication

    This course provides an introduction to the study of communication, including interpersonal communication, small group dynamics, and public speaking.

  or
  • COM 105: Public Speaking Credits: 3

    Public Speaking

    This is an introductory course in research, composition, delivery, and evaluation of speeches for a variety of purposes and occasions. Students develop skills in critical listening and analysis through small group and individual activities.

  or
  • COM 200: Interpersonal Communication Credits: 3

    Interpersonal Communication

    This course is designed as an introduction to the theory and practice of interpersonal communication. Students learn how to become both effective and appropriate communicators in a variety of contexts. Students also develop good listening and responding skills, conflict management strategies, sensitivity to language and an understanding of cultural and gender differences.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better inENG 100 or ENG 101. 
• • ENG 101: Composition I Credits: 3

    Composition I

    This course introduces students to college-level reading, thinking, and writing through a series of composition-rhetoric assignments and activities that culminate in a research-supported project. Specifically, students apply critical and creative thinking to evaluate problems, interpret evidence/data, and draw conclusions. As part of this process, students learn to evaluate sources and emerging digital tools for currency, feasibility, truthfulness, credibility, and accuracy. Ultimately, students learn to synthesize knowledge to solve problems. This writing process (thinking, researching, evaluating, and persuading) helps students to develop an essential skill set they can use in their future academic, civic, and professional lives.

  or
  • ENG 100: Composition I With Support Credits: 5

    Composition I With Support

    This course introduces students to college-level reading, thinking, and writing through a series of composition-rhetoric assignments and activities that culminate in a research-supported project. Specifically, students apply critical and creative thinking to evaluate problems, interpret evidence/data, and draw conclusions. As part of this process, students learn to evaluate sources and emerging digital tools for currency, feasibility, truthfulness, credibility, and accuracy. Ultimately, students learn to synthesize knowledge to solve problems. This writing process (thinking, researching, evaluating, and persuading) helps students to develop an essential skill set they can use in their future academic, civic, and professional lives.  English 100 will be driven by the same course objectives as English 101 and satisfy the same requirement.

  or
  • ENG 102: Composition II Credits: 3

    Composition II

    This course continues developing students’ abilities to use research and writing to make informed and ethical arguments; effectively communicating these arguments to professional and expert audiences in a research-supported project. Moreover, the course further develops students’ skills in critical and creative thinking to evaluate problems, interpret evidence/data, and draw conclusions.

    Emphasis is placed on honing skills of audience analysis, analytical reading, problem solving, research methods—including both primary and secondary research—and persuasive writing. Also, this course will acquaint students with patterns and conventions of multiple disciplinary communities. This writing process (thinking, researching, evaluating, and applying rhetorical strategy) prepares students for their academic and professional futures.

    Prerequisite(s): ENG 100 or ENG 101.
• PLS 101: American Government and Politics Credits: 3

  American Government and Politics

  This introductory course familiarizes students with American and Missouri government constitutions, institutions, policies and processes. Students develop an understanding of the foundations, environment, and principles of democracy with key concepts about voting, political parties, campaigns, and interactions between the branches of government. The course emphasis is on the values, rights, and responsiblities that shape public decision making of active and informed citizens in the American political system. This course meets instruction requirements (Missouri Revised Statute 170.011.1) in the Constitution of the United States and the state of Missouri.

• PSY 110: Introduction to Psychology Credits: 3

  Introduction to Psychology

  This course provides an introduction to psychology including history and systems, physiology, human growth and development, sensation and perception, learning, memory, emotion, motivation, personality, adjustment, psychopathology, industrial and social psychology.

• SOC 101: Introduction to Sociology Credits: 3

  Introduction to Sociology

  This course is an inquiry into the nature of society, the foundation of group life, institutions, structure of society and the role of the individual as a group member. Emphasis on implications for social change is encouraged.

Occupational Therapy Assistant Program Requirements – 59 Credit Hours

• OTA 100: Occupational Therapy Foundations Credits: 2

  Occupational Therapy Foundations

  This course is an introduction to occupational therapy, its history, philosophies, values and ethics. The occupational therapy process and role delineation of various occupational therapy personnel are explained. The Occupational Therapy Practice Framework is introduced. Students will learn about the function and value of participating in professional organizations.

  Prerequisite(s): Admission to the OTA Program.
• OTA 105: Document & Reimbursement OTA Credits: 2

  Document & Reimbursement OTA

  This course is an introduction to occupational therapy documentation and reimbursement within various OT settings. Models of care will be examined including medical, community, education, and social models along with basic regulatory, reimbursement, and documentation guidelines for each. Students will receive an introduction to evidence-based practice and will learn how OT evidence influences the reimbursement process.

  Prerequisite(s): Admission to the OTA program.
• OTA 110: Musculoskeletal Structure and Function Credits: 3

  Musculoskeletal Structure and Function

  This course is a study of musculoskeletal structures and functions of the body, including a study of joint movements and biomechanical components of human movement as required for life roles. Students explore various conditions resulting from impairments in the musculoskeletal system.

  Prerequisite(s): Admission to the OTA program.
• OTA 115: Neuromuscular Mvmt Analysis Credits: 2

  Neuromuscular Mvmt Analysis

  This course is a hands-on study of biomechanical and neuromuscular components of human movement.Muscle palpation and identification, joint movements, and whole body movement analysis will be included. Students will learn the basic body mechanics necessary for assisting with transfer interventions and will practice the interventions through the use of problem solving activities and client cases. Concepts of safe patient handling will be stressed.

  Prerequisite(s): Admission to the OTA Program.
• OTA 130: Neurological Structure and Function Credits: 3

  Neurological Structure and Function

  This course focuses on the principles of neurological development as they relate to the occupational therapy assistant practice. Concepts of neurological structures and function, neurological development, motor learning, reflex development and integration and the impact of illness and disease related to neurological deficits are covered.

  Prerequisite(s): Admission to the OTA Program.
• OTA 150: Human Development in Occupational Therapy Credits: 2

  Human Development in Occupational Therapy

  This course is the exploration of the typical physical, perceptual, cognitive, and psychosocial developmental phases as they occur from birth to late adulthood. Developmental theories will be addressed, along with theories of aging, as they relate to occupational therapy practice. The role of sociocultural, socioeconomic, diversity factors and lifestyle choices on development will be addressed.

  Prerequisite(s): Admission to the OTA Program.
• OTA 205: Task Analysis I Credits: 1

  Task Analysis I

  Students will learn to analyze and break down tasks using the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework in order to provide effective and safe interventions for OT clients across a variety of settings and conditions.

  Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in OTA 100, OTA 105, OTA 110, OTA 115, OTA 130, OTA 150.
• OTA 211: Practicum I Credits: 2

  Practicum I

  In this course, students will observe and participate in OT interventions within a controlled clinical environment. Students will be encouraged to use professional behaviors, professional knowledge and clinical reasoning skills gained during coursework as they interact with clients and other service providers. Students are responsible for transportation to and from clinical sites

  Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in OTA 100, OTA 105, OTA 110, OTA 115, OTA 130, OTA 150.
• OTA 215: Therapeutic Intervent&Adapt I Credits: 5

  Therapeutic Intervent&Adapt I

  Students will receive hands-on training in intervention planning, implementation, grading, and adaptation for conditions commonly seen in OT practice. Interventions will focus on occupation-based, purposeful, enabling, and adjunctive activities. Students in this course will learn interventions for Activities of Daily Living, Instrumental Activities of Daily Living, Play and Education areas of occupation.

  Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in OTA 100, OTA 105, OTA 110, OTA 115, OTA 130, OTA 150.
• OTA 220: Group Dynamics Credits: 2

  Group Dynamics

  This course focuses on psychosocial issues related to the practice of occupational therapy. OT assessment and intervention for groups is the focus. Students will learn about group process and group dynamics in this course.

  Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in OTA 100, OTA 105, OTA 110, OTA 115, OTA 130, OTA 150.
• OTA 225: Conditions in Occupational Therapy I Credits: 2

  Conditions in Occupational Therapy I

  This course presents the study of common conditions seen in the practice of occupational therapy in various settings. Disease etiology, progression, signs and symptoms related to occupational therapy valuation and treatment will be discussed. This course will focus on developmental disorders, cognitive/perceptual, mental, and sensory disorders, with a review of neuromuscular disorders as they relate to reduction in occupational performance. Students will have the opportunity to use case-based methods of learning in this course.

• OTA 222: Evidence-Based Practice for the OTA I Credits: 1

  Evidence-Based Practice for the OTA I

  This course teaches students how to use evidence to make practice decisions in occupational therapy.

  Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in OTA 100, OTA 105, OTA 110, OTA 115, OTA 130, OTA 150.
• OTA 235: Screen And Assessment OTA I Credits: 2

  Screen And Assessment OTA I

  Students will learn how to administer standardized assessments commonly used in OT practice. The role of the OTA in screening and evaluation will be discussed. Students will learn how to document assessment data, as well as how to communicate with the Registered Occupational Therapist when supervision is needed in such activities.

  Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in OTA 100, OTA 105, OTA 110, OTA 115, OTA 130, OTA 150.
• OTA 241: Practicum II Credits: 3

  Practicum II

  This course is a clinical course. Students will be assigned to a clinic, hospital, skilled nursing facility, school, or home health provider. The student will provide OT interventions and assessments under the supervision of a licensed OT or OTA. Students are responsible for transportation to and from the clinical site.

  Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in OTA 205, OTA 211, OTA 215, OTA 220, OTA 222, OTA 225, OTA 235.
• OTA 245: Task Analysis II Credits: 1

  Task Analysis II

  Students will learn to analyze and break down tasks using the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework in order to provide effective and safe interventions for OT clients across a variety of settings and conditions.

  Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in OTA 205, OTA 211, OTA 215, OTA 220, OTA 222, OTA 225, OTA 235.
• OTA 255: Therapeutic Interventions and Adaptations II Credits: 5

  Therapeutic Interventions and Adaptations II

  Students will receive hands-on training in intervention planning, implementation, grading, and adaptation for conditions commonly seen in OT practice. Interventions will focus on occupation-based, purposeful, enabling, and adjunctive activities. Students in this course will learn interventions for Leisure, Work, Social Participation, and Sleep/Rest areas of occupation.

• OTA 265: Screening and Assessment for the OTA II Credits: 2

  Screening and Assessment for the OTA II

  Students will learn how to administer standardized assessments commonly used in OT practice. The role of the OTA in screening and evaluation will be discussed. Students will learn how to document assessment data, as well as how to communicate with the Registered Occupational Therapist when supervision is needed in such activities. This course continues from Assessment I in the second semester.

  Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in OTA 205, OTA 211, OTA 215, OTA 220, OTA 222, OTA 225, OTA 235.
• OTA 270: Prof Development Seminar Credits: 1

  Prof Development Seminar

  This course prepares the OTA student for professional responsibilities and opportunities in practice that go beyond clinical skills. Knowledge of management, marketing, and professional development helpprepare the student for additional opportunities as a program manager. Knowledge of certification, licensure, and ethical procedures is necessary for a successful career as an OTA.

  Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in OTA 241.
• OTA 275: Conditions in Occupational Therapy II Credits: 2

  Conditions in Occupational Therapy II

  This course is presents the study of common conditions seen in the practice of occupational therapy in various settings. Disease etiology, progression, signs and symptoms related to occupational therapy evaluation and treatment will be discussed. This course will focus on cardiopulmonary disorders, injuries, systemic, immunologic, and skin disorders, as well as infectious diseases as they relate to reduction in occupational performance. Students will have the opportunity to use case-based methods of learning in this course.

  Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in OTA 205, OTA 211, OTA 215, OTA 220, OTA 222, OTA 225, OTA 235.
• OTA 276: Emerging Practice and Special Issues in OT Credits: 2

  Emerging Practice and Special Issues in OT

  This course will introduce students to emerging practice areas of OT, not always seen in traditional settings of practice. Special issues related to legislation, practice standards, technology, or changes in the profession itself will be presented here. Current issues and trends will be the focus, as noted by the American Occupational Therapy Association.

  Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in OTA 205, OTA 211, OTA 215, OTA 220, OTA 222, OTA 225, OTA 235.
• OTA 280: Evidence-Based Practice for the OTA II Credits: 2

  Evidence-Based Practice for the OTA II

  This course teaches students how to use evidence-based knowledge in practice. Students will learn how to determine Best Practice strategies for clinic work, by learning critical appraisal of research literature and professional writing.

  Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in OTA 205, OTA 211, OTA 215, OTA 220, OTA 222, OTA 225, OTA 235.
• OTA 285: Practicum III Credits: 6 ^*

  Practicum III

  This course is comprised of a supervised clinical practice experience in a setting assigned by the instructor. The equivalent of full time clinical practice will be assigned. Students are provided with specific placement prior to registration for this course. Students are responsible for their own housing, transportation and other expenses related to this course.

  Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in OTA 241, OTA 245, OTA 255, OTA 265, OTA 275, OTA 276, OTA 280.
• OTA 286: Practicum IV Credits: 6 ^*

  Practicum IV

  This course is comprised of a supervised clinical practice experience in a setting assigned by the instructor. The equivalent of full time clinical practice will be assigned. Students will be provided with specific placement prior to registration for this course. Students will be responsible for their own housing, transportation and other expenses related to this course.

  Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in OTA 241, OTA 245, OTA 255, OTA 265, OTA 275, OTA 276, OTA 280.

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