Harding University announces Occupational Therapy Graduate Program in its College of Allied Health

OT program provides enhanced health science education options for students

SEARCY, Ark., Dec. 7, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Harding University has announced a new Occupational Therapy (OT) Masters of Science program that can be completed in two years in its College of Allied Health. The program will join other rehabilitative therapeutic practices at Harding, including Cardiac Function & Interventional Technology; Physical Therapy; Physician Assistant Studies; Speech Language Pathology; and Strength & Conditioning.

In the midst of a health care workforce shortage and the lasting disruptions of COVID-19, Harding saw increased demand for compassionate, high-level care in Arkansas communities and beyond. Harding developed the OT program to meet that need.

"We're proud to unveil this huge undertaking by Harding's staff and College of Allied Health faculty," said Dean for Allied Health and Associate Provost for Health Sciences at Harding Michael McGalliard, ScD, PT, COMT. "This interest really speaks to the hearts of our incredible leadership team at Harding and their desire to mend the brokenness left by staff shortages in the health care industry."

During the university's research into programs of this nature, educators discovered that many students are seeking programs with a focus on becoming OT practitioners and there were no existing masters programs in Arkansas. Completing the program in two years enables students to enter the workforce sooner, earn higher wages and pay off student loans more quickly, making it a financially sound choice compared to longer programs.

Dr. Cathy Acre has been named program director of the OT program, bringing 30 years of experience in OT and higher education. Joining her are Paige Spillman and Melodie Mauney, both of whom are currently in doctoral programs. A fourth full-time OT faculty member, Jill Knight, will join in 2024.

"This is more than just an academic pursuit," stated Dr. Cathy Acre, occupational therapy program director at Harding. "Our students are not just receiving a high-quality Christian education, they're further shaping their hearts and compassion to help people in need."

The program is designed to blend Kolb's experiential model of learning with transformative educational theory and adult learning principles. Harding's program specifically provides students with the education necessary to become OT practitioners while experiencing a shared sense of inspired purpose, an objective that Harding President Mike Williams has championed since his first day on campus and maintains as the university celebrates its Centennial year.

Curriculum in the Occupational Therapy program will focus on the core of practice as an occupational therapist, occupational therapy process, professionalism and integrity, and global citizenship. Students will have the opportunity to complete a Level I Fieldwork experience through a university led mission, a transformative component of the program.

The program will be located in a newly-remodeled space in the Health Science Building, South Main Campus. A house is also being renovated to simulate a patient's home, allowing students to practice skills in a real setting.

Harding plans to host a cohort size of 24 students in its inaugural class. Those interested can apply for the Occupational Therapy program through March 6, 2024.

To learn more about the Occupational Therapy program or to apply, email [email protected] or visit Harding.edu/academics/colleges-departments/allied-health/occupational-therapy.

Click here to view headshots of the Occupational Therapy faculty members.

About Harding University
Harding University is a private Christian, liberal arts university located in Searcy, Arkansas. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and celebrating its centennial year, it is the largest private university in the state. Harding's student body represents students from across the U.S. and more than 50 nations and territories. The University offers more than 110 undergraduate majors; 14 preprofessional programs; more than 40 graduate and professional programs; as well as numerous study abroad opportunities including locations in Australasia, Peru, Europe, Greece, Italy and Zambia. For more information, visit Harding.edu.

SOURCE Harding University