Occupational therapists help people who are recovering from severe injuries or debilitating disease, overcoming developmental disabilities or coping with changes brought about by age, adapt and regain their independence. Occupational Therapists help people learn or relearn to do basic, everyday activities. At the OU Health Sciences Center, Occupational Therapy students learn the skills needed to help others overcome physical, social and emotional impairments.
Students begin their college career at OU's Norman campus for general-education study with a balance of science and psychology coursework. After completion of a bachelor's degree and required prerequisites at the main campus, students may apply to the College of Allied Health for the Master of Occupational Therapy program.
Occupational Therapy students typically have interests in math and science. They also have strong interpersonal skills and enjoy working with people. Occupational Therapy students need to be inventive and able to adapt to different situations.
High school preparation should include math and science courses, especially biology, health and chemistry.
Students learn both in the classroom, using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques, and in clinical experiences. Each student completes clinical rotations, working in clinics or hospitals with professionals and learning through real-world environments.
OUHSC's campus offers students an engaging setting among students and faculty of other health and science fields. Upon graduation, students are eligible to sit for the state licensure exam.
Students have many options for employment, including the following:
Some of our recent graduates are now working as:
Notable Achievements:
An Occupational Therapy professor was recently awarded a U.S. Housing and Urban Development Community Development Grant to establish occupational therapy services in a Tulsa agency, providing community-based services for people with problems with substance abuse.
A recent graduate was elected to represent OU as Vice Chair of the Assembly of Student Delegates for the American Occupational Therapy Association.
Other alumni hold positions such as:
Visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ website to explore the median pay for jobs you can pursue with this degree.
The Occupational Therapy program is accredited by the American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc.
College of Allied health Office of Academic and Student Affairs
Phone: (405) 271-6588
Email: ahinfo@ouhsc.edu
Website: alliedhealth.ouhsc.edu
