Occupational Therapy Program

Mission Statement

The mission of the occupational therapy program is to provide a broad-base of occupational therapy knowledge and skills within a strong liberal arts education. The program seeks to prepare graduates to think logically and creatively, act professionally and ethically, analyze ideas and situations, and solve problems encountered in their service delivery as practitioners, supervisors and leaders. In harmony with the mission of the College, the occupational therapy program seeks to prepare graduates to become reflective practitioners and life-long learners, to act with moral courage and spiritual fullness, and to become ethical leaders who are engaged in their communities.

To prepare graduates for occupational therapy practice the program offers three degrees: (a) for those without a bachelor degree, an entry-level five-year Bachelor of Science in Health Science and Master of Science in Occupational Therapy degree; (b) for those who already possess an undergraduate bachelor degree outside of Occupational Therapy, an entry-level Master of Science in Occupational Therapy degree; and (c) for those who possess a bachelor degree in Occupational Therapy and are licensed to practice as an Occupational Therapist, a completion degree leading to the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy.

The core values of the American Occupational Therapy Association and those of Alvernia College combine well in the mission of the occupational therapy program. These complementary philosophies value the uniqueness of each individual and service to others. The curriculum seeks to provide learning opportunities for students to discover their special gifts and to learn the skills needed to be inclusive and engaged practitioners. The occupational therapy program continues to focus on the mission of the founding order of Alvernia College, the Bernardine Sisters, by providing education and care where there is genuine need.

Alvernia MSOT Brochure