Advanced Occupational Therapy Online

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Admission Requirements : Curriculum Guide : Tuition and Expenses : Financial Assistance : WebCT Demo Course : Fact Sheet

Advanced Degree Program - Distance Education

The Advanced Master of Science in Occupational Therapy Studies (AMOT) is a post-professional degree program for those already holding an entry-level, professional degree (Bachelors or Masters) in Occupational Therapy. Designed for practicing occupational therapists interested in continuing, advanced education in occupational therapy, the program allows the working clinician to build upon existing experience, strengthen academic foundations, improve clinical reasoning and critical analysis skills, and increase the ability to practice in varied clinical and administrative settings.

If you have searched occupational therapy colleges looking for a program that balances your busy schedule with contiuing your education in occupational therapy, ASHS is the right place for you. Offered via an online distance education format, the AMOT Program allows working professionals to complete their didactic studies at their convenience in the place of their choice – including the comfort of their homes. The program fosters valuable interaction among students and faculty by providing access to a virtual community of practicing occupational therapists from across the country and around the globe.

Although AMOT faculty and students “meet” in online classroom environments, clinical (practice related) experiences are required to complete several of the core “Professional Practice” courses (see below). AMOT students are able and encouraged to use their current practice settings to meet this requirement. In the event that a student is not employed/practicing at the time of a particular course requiring a clinical experience, the student is responsible for identifying and gaining access to a clinical practice setting applicable to the assignments required in the course.

Course of Study

The AMOT program leading to a Master of Science (M.S.) in Occupational Therapy requires a minimum of 42 quarter credit hours. Courses are offered in 6-12 week modules with students averaging 2-3 courses per quarter. It is estimated that each student will spend 8-10 hours of study per week and, on average, can complete the program in two years. The program of study is divided into four areas:

1. Professional Practice (10 credits required)
2. Critical Inquiry (minimum of 5 credits required)
3. Electives (21 credits)
4. Capstone Experience (6 credits)

Professional Practice (10 credits required)
The Professional Practice core courses provide the student with a firm foundation in the practice of Occupational Therapy and the issues and concerns of a graduate-level health profession. Three out of four core courses require clinical practice experience to complete assignments: OT 802—Advanced Theory and Philosophy in Occupational Therapy (3 Credits); OT 803—Trends in Occupational Therapy (2 credits); and HP 814—Issues in Diverse Populations and Settings (3 credits). (The specific clinical experiences required are outlined and described in the course syllabi for these courses.)

Critical Inquiry (minimum of 5 credits required)
The Critical Inquiry courses provide the student with formal skills in critical inquiry and decision-making, Students learn to use the research literature and technology resources to establish interventions based on scientific evidence and best professional practices.

Electives (21 credits required)
Clinical practice areas of specialization or interest are offered for the practicing therapist. Students may choose from general practice, pediatric, or management specialty areas. (Students also have the option of applying elective credits towards completion of a certificate from the School of Health Management.)

Capstone Experience (6 credits)
The capstone project is an integrating and culminating experience that allows the student to explore an area of professional interest. Under supervision of AMOT faculty, students develop a project that demonstrates scholarship and furthers the profession’s body of knowledge.

For a list and description of specific course offerings please refer to the curriculum guide.