Impact of Misdemeanor/Felony Convictions & Drug/Health Clearances

 

Individuals who have been convicted of a felony/misdemeanor offense may be denied certification or licensure as an occupational therapist. It is suggested that prior to admission to the program any individual with such a conviction contact the National Board of Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) and state licensing boards of occupational therapy to request information regarding credentialing eligibility.

 

Clinical fieldwork and classroom experiences within clinical settings may require a criminal background check and or child abuse check in order to permit participation in the experience and enter the location. Organizations may deny a student access and participation in such activities due to misdemeanor or felony conviction.

 

Additionally, organizations may require drug testing and/or health clearances prior to admittance to their facility. Negative results may preclude students from participation.

 

Participation in such experiences is a requirement for graduation, inability to complete experiences due to convictions and/or inability to obtain satisfactory clearance would result in delayed graduation and/or the inability to graduate from the program.

 

For more information, please contact the Occupational Therapy Department Chair listed below.

 
 

Contact Information

 
Elizbeth M. Bentz, OTD, OTR/L, SIPT, RYT
Department Chair, Occupational Therapy

Assistant Professor
Bernardine Hall 114E
610.790.2991
elizabeth.bentz@alvernia.edu
 

Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT)