Curriculum Outline and Course Descriptions

Didactic Phase (80.0 credit hours)

Year 1 (Base Camp) 39.0 credit hours

Summer Term (10.0 credit hours)

OTD 710: Foundations of Occupational Therapy (4.0 credit hours)

This course is designed to introduce students to the history and philosophy of the occupational therapy profession, the evolution of occupation, and contemporary OT practice. This course provides an overview of the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework, the function of professional organizations, the continuum of care, and the use of theory in OT practice. Students will also explore legal and regulatory considerations regarding supervision, reimbursement, and HIPAA. (Prerequisites - Admission into the LMU OTD Program) 

OTD 719: Functional Gross Anatomy (6.0 credit hours)

This course is focused on gross human anatomy and is presented in a regional approach. Students learn anatomical terminology and correlate structure with function through lectures, laboratory dissection, and demonstrations. (Prerequisites - Admission into the LMU OTD Program) 

Fall Term (14.0 credit hours)

OTD 722: Research I (3.0 credit hours)

This course introduces students to foundational concepts in research methodology and analysis, with a focus on understanding, critiquing, and applying evidence to occupational therapy practice. Key topics include research terminology, study designs, ethical considerations in research, and analysis. Students will develop skills to appraise the quality and relevance of research studies, evaluate levels of evidence, and interpret data to inform evidence-based clinical decision-making. Emphasis is placed on integrating research findings to enhance occupational therapy interventions across diverse populations. (Prerequisites - None) 

OTD 723: Health Conditions: Epidemiology & Pathophysiology I (2.0 credit hours)

This course introduces common conditions seen in occupational therapy practice with an approach of understanding normal body function and impacts of health and disease. The first of a two-course sequence, students will learn terminology related to health, disease and epidemiology; essential physiologic concepts that contribute to the maintenance of homeostasis; and the impact of pathophysiology on the body systems including integumentary, cardiopulmonary, gastrointestinal, urinary, and endocrine systems. The role of the occupational therapist in considering the functional deficits that result from specific conditions in the body systems will be explored. (Prerequisites - OTD 719) 

OTD 725: Introduction to Documentation (2.0 credit hour)

This course will introduce students to the purpose and mechanics of documentation. Emphasis is placed on the structure of SOAP notes, the development of occupation-based goals, and justification for occupational therapy services across the continuum of care. Students will additionally be introduced to various reimbursement systems, funding mechanisms, and treatment/diagnosis codes. (Prerequisites - None) 

OTD 727: Foundations of Teaching & Learning (2.0 credit hours)

This course will introduce the learner to basic theories of adult teaching and learning. A focus on teaching and learning in a higher education setting, as well as client settings, will be explored. Multiple learning theories will be studied with an emphasis on how these affect one's decisions in selecting teaching strategies. Students will analyze selected theories and their use in a variety of educational settings. (Prerequisites - None) 

OTD 728: Client Care Management (2.0 credit hours)

This course is designed to expose, orient, and introduce students to interprofessional practice through the acquisition and demonstration of skills related to the collaborative examination and management of clients in different practice settings. Students of various healthcare disciplines will work closely to learn and practice client care skills. This course will emphasize the overall assessment, assessment of vital signs and appraisal of lab values, standard precautions and infection control, client positioning and draping, bed mobility, and will introduce transfers, and body mechanics awareness. Students will also begin to develop problem-solving and clinical reasoning skills related to client care within the context of the interprofessional healthcare team. Through lecture and lab sessions, students will interact, engage, and collaborate with students from other healthcare disciplines to evaluate simulated client’s representative of the Appalachian region. (Prerequisite- OTD 710)

OTD 729 Neuroscience (3.0 credit hours)

This course allows students to study neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, and applied neuroscience principles in the promotion of health and wellness and the recovery of illness and/or injury. This course, Neuroscience includes the physical and electrical properties of cells, synapses and synaptic transmission, the somatosensory system, motor neurons, neuroplasticity, basal ganglia, cerebellum, nervous system support systems. The spine, cranial nerves, and peripheral nervous system will also be explored. (Prerequisite- OTD 719)

Spring Term (15.0 credit hours)

OTD 731: Clinical Reasoning (2.0 credit hour)

This course will introduce students to therapeutic reasoning and its application through the occupational therapy process. Students will engage in individual and group-based activities to deepen their understanding of therapeutic use of self, apply different types of clinical reasoning, select assessments and interventions that are client-centered, and incorporate evidence-based practice. Emphasis will be placed on reflection as a means of monitoring learning and gauging readiness to apply therapeutic reasoning within clinical practice. (Prerequisites – OTD 710, OTD 725) 

OTD 732: Research II (3.0 credit hours)

This course builds upon foundational research concepts introduced in Research I, advancing students' skills in methodology, data analysis, and evidence integration for occupational therapy practice. Emphasis is placed on conducting literature reviews, applying advanced critical appraisal techniques, and synthesizing research findings to address complex clinical questions and inform clinical practice. This course emphasizes ethical considerations in research to deepen their understanding of research ethics, including considerations for vulnerable populations, conflicts of interest, and oversight in study design and implementation. (Prerequisites - OTD 722) 

OTD 733: Health Conditions: Epidemiology & Pathophysiology II (2.0 credit hours)

The second of a two-course sequence, this course explores common conditions in occupational therapy practice with an approach of understanding normal body function and impacts of health and disease. Course content focuses on the neurovascular and musculoskeletal systems and health conditions that impact specific or broad populations. The role of the occupational therapist in considering the functional deficits that result from specific conditions in the body systems will be explored. (Prerequisites - OTD 723) 

OTD 734: FW Level I Mental Health (1.0 credit hour)

Level I fieldwork courses run concurrently with a specific evaluation and intervention course. Students will be afforded the opportunity to apply knowledge and skills obtained in the didactic course through virtual environments, simulated environments, standardized patients, faculty practice, faculty-led site visits, and/or supervision by a fieldwork educator in a practice environment. Professional development and appropriate behaviors are a key focus during Level I fieldwork. (Corequisite - OTD 736) 

OTD 736: Mental Health (4.0 credit hours)

This course will introduce occupational therapy practice for mental health populations. Theoretical foundations of mental health rehabilitation including assessment and evidenced-based treatment in various rehabilitation settings will be taught. Utilizing clinical reasoning, students will apply various theories and frames of reference associated with mental health practice. Family and client centered care and collaborative consultation across a range of settings will be emphasized. This course contains a laboratory component. (Prerequisites - OTD 710) 

OTD 739: Applied Kinesiology (3.0 credit hours)

This course will teach students the study of movement. Students will use clinical reasoning to determine appropriate evidenced-based biomechanical evaluation and assessment of musculoskeletal structures to identify normal and abnormal movement patterns. Students will learn to evaluate joint range of motion, strength, and sensation to better allow client-centered care, thus improving client outcomes. This course contains a laboratory component. (Prerequisites - OTD 719) 

Year 2 (Camp Smoky) 41.0 credit hours

Summer Term (9.0 credit hours)

OTD 815: Assistive Technology (3.0 credit hours)

This course introduces a variety of assistive technology devices with application throughout the lifespan. Universal design and environmental modifications are explored in depth. Considering a client’s occupational profile, students use technology to assist and prepare the client for independence in occupational engagement and purposeful, meaningful activity. This course contains a laboratory component. (Prerequisites - OTD 729, OTD 733, OTD 739) 

OTD 816: Physical Rehabilitation I (4.0 credit hours)

This course introduces the practice area of physical rehabilitation where students will develop comprehensive skills in the occupational therapy process, specifically for the adult population. Students will expand on previous foundational knowledge and clinical reasoning to aid in assessment and treatment planning for adults with various physical impairments and diagnoses. Grounded in theory and occupational therapy frameworks and models, students will develop their individualized approach to client-centered, occupation-based care. Through lecture and laboratory experiences, students will advance their skills in assessment and evidence-based intervention development and implementation, while considering relevant contexts, performance skills, and client factors. (Prerequisites - OTD 710, OTD 723, OTD 729, OTD 731, OTD 733, OTD 734, OTD 736, OTD 739) 

OTD 817: Social Determinants of Health (2.0 credit hours)

Health disparities, such as access to care and disability status, and their relevance to occupational therapy will be discussed. Health disparities prevalent in rural Appalachia will be the primary focus. The overall intention of this course is to provide students an introduction to social factors that may impact individual, population, and community health. This course will use evidenced-based study intervention approaches to improve population health outcomes. (Prerequisites - None) 

Fall Term (15.0 credit hours)

OTD 820: Community Health and Wellness (2.0 credit hours)

This course provides students with the opportunity to recognize and analyze a prevalent problem affecting individuals or populations within local communities, develop potential solutions, and assess the effectiveness of these solutions in community-based settings. Students will conduct a needs assessment, design and implement an evidence-based program, and then evaluate and report on the program's outcomes. (Prerequisites - OTD 817) 

OTD 821: Interprofessional Collaboration (1.0 credit hour)

This course focuses on experiential learning of the core competency domain of interprofessional communication. This course immerses students in opportunities to develop the skills and behaviors necessary to effectively communicate with patients, families, and other professional members of the interprofessional collaborative healthcare team. This course will consider student exposure to patients with musculoskeletal and neurological disorders from previous and concurrent coursework using case-based problem-solving and high-fidelity simulation experiences. Each session will utilize elements of planning, preparation, debriefing, and evaluation consistent with the requirements of an IPE experience and will focus on a specific behavior or skill necessary to the enhancement of trust, respect, and collaboration in interprofessional practice. (Prerequisites - OTD 731) 

OTD 822: Research Seminar I (2.0 credit hours)

This course is the first of a two-part series designed to guide students through the research process under faculty mentorship. Working in collaborative groups, students will design or refine research protocols to address questions related to scholarship of discovery, integration, application, or teaching and learning. Students will have the opportunity to utilize diverse methods—such as systematic reviews, secondary data analysis, observational studies, case studies, or qualitative research—and initiate data collection and analysis as appropriate, ensuring adherence to ethical guidelines and regulatory standards. (Prerequisites - OTD 722, OTD 732) 

OTD 823: PAMS, Orthotics, and Prosthetics (3.0 credit hours)

OTD 824: FW Level I Pediatrics (1.0 credit hour)

Level I fieldwork courses run concurrently with a specific evaluation and intervention course. Students will be afforded the opportunity to apply knowledge and skills obtained in the didactic course through virtual environments, simulated environments, standardized patients, faculty practice, faculty-led site visits, and/or supervision by a fieldwork educator in a practice environment. Professional development and appropriate behaviors are a key focus during Level I fieldwork. (Corequisite - OTD 826) 

OTD 825: Doctoral Capstone I (2.0 credit hour)

This is the first course in a three-part doctoral capstone series. It serves as an introduction to the capstone process, where students will learn about the project progression throughout the curriculum and the timeline for completing its components. Students will explore potential capstone project topics and be introduced to the ACOTE focus areas. As students identify an area of focus for their capstone project, they will be paired with a faculty mentor. Under the mentor’s guidance, students will begin conducting a literature review and initiate communication with potential community partners. (Prerequisites - OTD 722, OTD 732) 

OTD 826: Pediatrics (4.0 credit hours)

This course will introduce the occupational therapy practice for pediatric populations. The activities of infants, children and youth will be studied along with developmental milestones and how they relate to ADL, play, school, leisure, and social and family interactions. Using clinical reasoning, students will apply various evidence-based theories and frames of reference associated with pediatric practice. Family centered care and collaborative consultation across a range of settings will be emphasized. This course contains a laboratory component. (Prerequisites - OTD 710, OTD 728, OTD 729, OTD 733, OTD 739) 

Spring Term (17.0 credit hours)

OTD 830: Specialty Topics in Pediatrics (2.0 credit hours)

This course will provide advanced exploration of occupational therapy within pediatric settings. Activities throughout the course will ask students to further develop clinical reasoning skills across current and emerging pediatric service settings. Topics such as school system practice, collaborative consultation, as well as other pediatrics topics will be covered. (Prerequisites - OTD 824, OTD 826) 

OTD 832: Research Seminar II (2.0 credit hours)

This course is the second of a two-part series designed to guide students through the research process under faculty mentorship. Students will demonstrate competency in data collection, analysis, and interpretation related to their specific study design, synthesizing their findings to draw meaningful conclusions. This course culminates with students disseminating their findings with peers, faculty, and external stakeholders, highlighting the implications of their work. (Prerequisites - OTD 722, 732, 822) 

OTD 833: Advocacy and Leadership (4.0 credit hours)

This course equips students with leadership and management skills applicable at both micro (clinic and department) and macro (organizational and policy) levels within health and rehabilitation settings. Students will critically analyze the healthcare system, focusing on the social, economic, and ethical forces that shape healthcare and occupational therapy service delivery. Emphasis is placed on developing strategies to lead teams effectively, influence policy, and advocate for individuals, groups, and populations. (Prerequisites - OTD 710, OTD 731) 

OTD 835: Doctoral Capstone II (2.0 credit hours)

This is the second course in the doctoral capstone series. In this course, students will finalize their  capstone project idea, select  a site, and identify an expert mentor for their capstone experience and project. Students will collaborate with both their faculty mentor and expert mentor to develop individualized learning objectives and create a project proposal for committee approval. (Prerequisites - OTD 825) 

OTD 836: Physical Rehabilitation II (4.0 credit hours)

This course expands on OTD 816, emphasizing the advanced application of physical rehabilitation processes across diverse clinical contexts and real-world environments. Students will integrate and apply their knowledge and skills to address the unique client factors, performance challenges, and occupational needs of individuals with complex conditions or multiple comorbidities. The laboratory component offers immersive, hands-on experiences designed to reinforce clinical reasoning, technical proficiency, and professional competency. (Prerequisites - OTD 816) 

OTD 837: Advanced and Emerging Treatment Areas in Occupational Therapy (2.0 credit hours)

This course provides an in-depth exploration of occupational therapy service delivery in advanced and emerging practice areas. Students will demonstrate knowledge in care coordination, case management, transition services, and funding mechanisms relevant to program development, alongside the consultative process with various stakeholders. Students will also evaluate and discuss effective mechanisms for referring clients to internal and external specialists, including community agencies. (Prerequisites - OTD 816) 

Clinical Phase (23.0 credit hours)

Year 3 (Camp Blue Ridge) 23.0 credit hours

Summer Term (6.0 credit hours)

OTD 991: FW Level IIA (6.0 credit hours)

This is the first of two 12-week fieldwork experiences designed to continue the development of the student to become a competent, entry-level, generalist occupational therapist. Students will be assigned to a fieldwork experience based on the program’s curricular design. The Level II fieldwork experience provides the student the opportunity to apply the occupational therapy skills and theory they learned during the didactic phase of the curriculum in a clinical or community setting where, by the conclusion of the experiences, they will demonstrate entry-level competency in occupational therapy standards of practice. In support of the University mission, one of the two fieldwork experiences, Fieldwork Level IIA or IIB, will take place in a setting located in the Appalachian region. Prerequisite- Successful completion of all previous coursework)

Fall Term (6.0 credit hours)

OTD 992: FW Level IIB (6.0 credit hours)

This is the second of two 12-week fieldwork experiences designed to continue the development of the student to become a competent, entry-level, generalist occupational therapist. Students will be assigned to a fieldwork experience based on the program’s curricular design. The Level II fieldwork experience provides the student the opportunity to apply the occupational therapy skills and theory they learned during the didactic phase of the curriculum in a clinical or community setting where, by the conclusion of the experiences, they will demonstrate entry-level competency in occupational therapy standards of practice. In support of the University mission, one of the two fieldwork experiences, Fieldwork Level IIA or IIB, will take place in a setting located in the Appalachian region. (Prerequisite- Successful completion of all previous coursework)

Spring Term (11.0 credit hours)

OTD 921: Professional Competencies (1.0 credit hour)

This course explores skills, knowledge, and attributes that are specifically valued by AOTA and other professional associations, organizations, and bodies connected to the profession of occupational therapy, both current and future. Student will research criteria required to be an entry level occupational therapy practitioner, including national certification, state licensure, and professional duties. (Prerequisites - Successful completion of all previous coursework)  

OTD 993: Capstone Experience (8.0 credit hours)

This 14-week experience promotes student growth and enhances professional skills, providing students with an opportunity to gain an innovative perspective within the occupational therapy profession. As a critical component of the capstone process, the primary goal of this experience is to implement the student’s capstone project. (Prerequisite - Successful completion of all previous coursework) 

OTD 994: Doctoral Capstone III (2.0 credit hours)

This is the final course in the doctoral capstone series, where students will complete their individualized doctoral capstone projects. In this course, students will summarize their procedures, analyze and interpret their findings, and discuss their sustainability plan. Students will also disseminate their doctoral capstone projects to faculty and community members at a Scholarship Symposium. (Prerequisite - Successful completion of all previous coursework) 

*Level I Fieldwork will be completed in accordance with ACOTE accreditation standards. One credit hour of Level I Fieldwork equates to not less than one hour of classroom or direct faculty instruction and a minimum of two hours out of class student work each week for approximately fifteen weeks for one semester or the equivalent amount of work over a different amount of time.

*Supervised Level II Fieldwork and Capstone Experiences during the Clinical Phase are based on ACOTE Standards. Coursework required during the clinical phase is to be completed outside of fieldwork and capstone working hours.

*103 Total Credit Hours