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The School of Health Sciences and Rehabilitation Studies > Occupational Therapy > 5 Great Reasons to Major in Occupational Therapy at Springfield College
5 Great Reasons to Major in Occupational Therapy at Springfield College
Occupational therapists help people of all ages regain, develop, or master everyday skills in order to live independent, productive, and satisfying lives. Hands-on experience is vital to individuals majoring in Occupational Therapy (OT).
Springfield College’s occupational therapy program offers students the opportunity to learn real-world, on-the-job skills through clinical experience as well as internship opportunities. This combination of skills development and hands-on knowledge makes them competitive candidates for employment.
A master’s degree or higher in occupational therapy is the minimum requirement for entry into the field.
At Springfield College, students may complete their bachelor’s degree in a related field and their master’s degree in just five years through the dual degree and advanced senior options.
Occupational therapy training includes course work in biology, psychology, and the theory and practice of occupational therapy, including clinical experience.
Members of the occupational therapy faculty at Springfield College are local and national speakers and authors. They are involved in clinical practice, professional associations, and development of new areas of practice. Close working relationships between the faculty and students characterizes the Springfield College occupational therapy program.
Clinical fieldwork is a cornerstone of professional education.
Springfield College occupational therapy students accumulate fieldwork experience throughout the entire program at a wide variety of fieldwork sites both near and far. The occupational therapy department has active contracts with over 300 affiliating fieldwork sites across the country, and a full-time fieldwork coordinator who works closely with students to arrange fieldwork placements that help meet their professional goals.
Employment of occupational therapists is expected to increase 23 percent through 2016, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The increasing elderly population will drive growth in the demand for occupational therapy services.
Springfield College graduates work in schools, universities, government agencies, hospitals, rehab centers, and community-based settings all over the U.S. Many of our graduates have also published articles in professional journals such as the American Journal of Occupational Therapy and have presented at state and national conferences.
