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The University of Central Arkansas offers a post-baccalaureate Master of Science (MS) degree in Occupational Therapy (entry-level) and a post-professional Master of Science degree in Occupational Therapy. The entry-level MS degree in Occupational Therapy requires 70 hours of prerequisite course work and 110 hours of professional course work. The professional curriculum encompasses seven semesters of classes and an additional 6 months of field work experience. Following the completion of the first four semesters, consisting of the basic level of Occupational Therapy courses, students without a degree will earn a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (Occupational Therapy emphasis). Those with degrees may apply for and receive a second baccalaureate degree upon completion of the first 4 semesters. The field work portion of the program is completed in facilities where occupational therapy services are provided. Accreditation. The Occupational Therapy Program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE). Their address is: 4720 Montgomery Lane, PO Box 31220, Bethesda, MD 20824. Phone: 1-301-652-2682. Accreditation assures that graduates meet the educational eligibility requirements for state licensure and national certification. In order to obtain initial licensure in Arkansas, therapists must pass the certification examination currently administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). Their address is: 800 S. Frederick Avenue, Suite 200, Gaithersburg, MD 20877-4150. Phone: 1-301-990-7979. The post-professional MS program is open to registered occupational therapists who wish to engage in advanced study in the profession. A BS degree in occupational therapy is required to pursue this degree option. The curriculum leading to the Master of Science degree with a major in occupational therapy requires approximately 33 hours (thesis option) or 36 hours (non-thesis option) of professional course work. |