George Washington University launches advanced practice OTD degree program

The George Washington University (GW) School of Medicine and Health Sciences (SMHS) is pleased to announce an advanced practice Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) degree program for practicing occupational therapists. The deadline for fall enrollment is Aug. 11.

The GW OTD program addresses the advanced practice needs of occupational therapy professionals who are interested in interdisciplinary care of post-acute conditions.

"This new program is a great addition to the school," said Joseph Bocchino, Ed.D., M.B. A., senior associate dean for health sciences at SMHS. "It is our mission to provide clinicians with opportunities that enable them to enhance their ability to serve their patients. We are excited to offer this new degree for occupational therapists who wish to advance their skill set and advance their career."

The GW OTD program trains occupational therapy clinician-scholars to collaborate across the translational spectrum to integrate information from bench to bedside, and then on to influence policy. Graduates of the program will be prepared to demonstrate understanding of the following knowledge domains:

- Transdisciplinary Practice and Research - graduates will provide leadership for transdisciplinary teams in post-acute and chronic care, as well as utilize critical thinking, analytic, and communication skills in order to define and resolve occupational performance issues.

- Scholarship in Occupational Therapy - graduates will use research methodologies from three paradigms (quantitative, qualitative, and mixed) to develop and improve occupational therapy practice and programs. They will also apply empirical knowledge and the scientific method to address occupational performance issues.

- Advanced Concepts in Function and Learning - graduates will implement and contribute to evidence-based OT in post-acute settings, apply knowledge bi-directionally so that basic science, practice, and policy inform and are informed by one another, and integrate scholarly activities with everyday practice.

"This program is unique in its focus on post-acute and chronic care settings, which is one of the largest fastest growing segments of health care," said Mary Corcoran, Ph.D., associate dean for faculty development for health sciences at SMHS. "Occupational therapists have the potential to make important contributions to the evidence base across the entire translational spectrum, from bench to policy, regarding quality care for individuals following hospitalization."

The program will be offered in an online learning format, using dynamic media for self-disciplined and self-directed students to pursue a clinical doctorate while preparing for professional advancement.