Wittenberg offers a cooperative 3-2 program with Washington University's School of Occupational Therapy, as well as excellent preparation for admission to other occupational therapy programs.
Occupational therapy provides a unique health and rehabilitation service to aid individuals with disabling conditions to become as independent as possible in carrying out their daily tasks. With the current demand for occupational therapists high, students have the opportunity to prepare for a variety of work in skilled nursing, clinical nursing, hospitals, schools and industrial settings.
Students interested in this program spend three years at Wittenberg completing the general education program and a significant number of courses in biology, including the prerequisite courses for admission to Washington University. Students then apply for admission to the occupational therapy program at Washington University.
Upon acceptance, students begin work on a master's degree and acquire knowledge in the basic and applied science, theory of occupational therapy and assessment practices. Students also complete an assistantship and work with Washington University faculty on research, teaching or the practice of occupational therapy. After completing the first year at Washington University, students receive a bachelor of arts (B.A.) from Wittenberg.
During the second year at Washington University, the program focuses on occupational therapy practice and the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Client-centered approaches include direct intervention strategies, skill training, assistive technology, environmental modification, and client education and consultation. After the second year, students receive a master of science (M.S.) in occupational therapy and can pursue board certification. Students also have the option of continuing the doctoral degree program.
Although the application process for the 3-2 program with Washington University (Mo.) is selective and competitive and admission is not guaranteed to Wittenberg students, the acceptance rate for our students has been 100 percent. With one-on-one advising, students work closely with our faculty to select appropriate courses, arrange internships and asses their strengths and weaknesses. Wittenberg offers all prerequisite courses required for admission to Washington University.
Prerequisite Courses
At least 4 of the 6 pre-requisite courses must be successfully completed at the time of application. You must earn at least a "B" in each course. Pass/Fail is not accepted.
- 1 Year of General Biology (BIOL 170/171 and BIOL 180/181)
- 1 Upper Level Biology Course from: Neurobiology, Genetics, Molecular Neurobiology, Botany, or Ecology
- 2 Semesters of Human Anatomy and Physiology (BIOL 325 and BIOL 326/327)
- PSYC 230 Lifespan Development (3 credits)
- PSYC 251 Abnormal Psychology (4 credits)
- 1 Semester of Social Science from any of the following areas: Sociology, Anthropology, Economics, Political Science, Urban Studies, or other Psychology courses (Note: PSYC-101 is required to take PSYC 230 and PSYC 251)
- 1 Semester of Statistics (DATA 227 or PSYC 201)
Proficiencies:
- Medical Terminology. Most Wittenberg students complete this requirement via an independent study. Washington University recommends Medical Terminology, a Programmed Text by Smith et al. From Delmar Thomson Learning (1-800-347-7707)
- Computer competency. You are expected to be computer literate (word processing, spread sheets, email) upon enrollment. Completed by past experience as documented or course in computer science.
- CPR certification
- General GRE
To contact Washington University regarding its 3-2 program with Wittenberg, you may contact:
Washington University School of Medicine
Program in Occupational Therapy
Campus Box 8505
4444 Forest Park Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63108
Phone: 314-286-1653
E-mail: otadmissions@wustl.edu
to learn more about Washington University's School of Occupational Therapy,.