University of New England

Occupational Therapy

Degrees:  Bachelor of Science in Occupational Studies and/or Master of Science in Occupational Therapy

College:  Health Professions

Department:  Occupational Therapy

Contact: Regi Robnett, Director or Jan Froehlich, Advising Coordinator
rrobnett@une.edu
jfroehlich@une.edu

Program Overview

Occupational therapy is a health profession whose practitioners provide preventive, habilitative, and rehabilitative services for individuals whose lives have been disrupted by physical injury or illness, developmental problems, social or psychological difficulties, or the aging process. Occupational therapists, relying on a diversified knowledge of the social, behavioral and life sciences, evaluate capacities and skills and create programs designed to allow clients to achieve the highest level of function possible in their occupational roles.

There are opportunities for men and women in the profession to work with infants, children,  adults, and elders with physical and emotional disabilities to assist them in performing self-care, leisure, and work activities. The occupational therapist may work in a hospital, clinic, school, rehabilitation center, home care program, community health center, day care center, psychiatric facility, nursing home, or community based program. With experience, the therapist might function in private practice, as a university faculty member, as an administrator, or as a consultant.

The OT faculty support the view that all life activities (vocational, avocational, self-care, leisure, etc.) may be described as "occupations": humans are occupational by nature, and occupations facilitate health and well-being. Occupational therapy as taught at the University of New England is a holistic science that emphasizes the health of the individual in terms of his/her productive participation in society. Consistent with the overall University of New England mission, occupational therapy students study not only medical interventions, but also all the complex psychological and sociocultural dimensions of human occupation and learn to intervene to enhance occupational performance.

The Occupational Therapy Program at the University of New England in Biddeford and Portland is the longest standing and largest occupational therapy program in the state of Maine. We offer a combined BS to MS in Occuaptional Therapy, a 27 month MS in OT program, and a post-professional  masters’ program. 

Our program provides students with:

• An OT clinic near the campus, that is directly associated with the department. More information on the Community Occupational Therapy Clinic ...
• Approachable, caring faculty members who are recognized as experts in a broad spectrum of occupational therapy (including four fellows of the American Occupational Therapy Association and a Roster of Honor awardee) More information on our faculty ...
• Personal advisors who can work with you in designing an educational program that suits your personal needs.
• A number of small group courses that encourages individualized learning (and involvement in research projects).
• Practical hands-on experiences in the field of occupational therapy every semester of the three-year professional program.  More on our field experiences ...
• Several practical examinations that prepare you for occupational therapy practice in a supportive setting
• High caliber anatomy and physiology courses that include in-depth learning on real human bodies (cadavers). More on our facilities ...
• Beautiful campus settings on the southern coast of Maine for the undergraduate component and, for the graduate component, in a quintessential New England urban setting in Portland, Maine. Take virtual tours of our campuses ...
• Opportunities for interdisciplinary learning as part of the College of Health Professions Integrated Interdisciplinary Health and Healing (I2I2)Program . More on I2H2 ...
• Opportunity to engage in clinical research with a faculty mentor and a group of peers who have similar interests. Many of our students have published and presented their research 

Program Goals

Upon completion of the Occupational Therapy curriculum, the student will:

1. Understand, explain and promote the unique value of occupation, its theoretical constructs and the discipline of occupational therapy.
2. Integrate the construct of function and dysfunction along the wellness continuum as part of a holistic model.
3. Demonstrate the values, behaviors, skills and professional attitudes and competencies of an entry-level occupational therapist within the domains of concerns of the profession.  These domains of concern include, but are not limited to work, play/leisure and self-maintenance.
4. Evaluate clients, interpret data, develop and implement efficacious interventions across the lifespan based on a theoretical rationale.
5. Engage in and appraise the effectiveness of activity and occupational task analysis as an essential part of occupational therapy practice.
6. Employ and analyze/assess a systems approach to understanding and utilizing health care and technological resources within practice settings and the community (local, national, and international).
7. Demonstrate and distinguish critical thinking in all OT processes including but not limited to clinical reasoning, client-therapist relationships, management and occupational task analysis.
8. Demonstrate and value a client/family-centered philosophy in occupational therapy practice.
9. Based on a liberal arts and science core, recognize, value, and respect human diversity, biosphere diversity, and interdependence and relate these to occupational therapy theory and practice.
10. Communicate effectively in oral, written and technological forms when dealing with clients, families, peers, other professionals and agencies.
11. Consistently demonstrate and show commitment to professional and ethical behavior.
12. Differentiate between the roles of supervision, management, administration and consultation in occupational therapy and assume these roles consistent with entry-level practice.
13. Recognize and analyze the varieties of effective leadership, and demonstrate leadership skills as an entry-level occupational therapist.
14. Value and be prepared to engage in professional life-long learning, including research, to keep abreast of and contribute to new knowledge and issues relevant to occupational therapy.
15. TO BE ADDED

Mission Statement

In the field of occupational therapy, we view occupations as all the tasks that we do that have meaning for us personally.  The Occupational Therapy Department’s mission is to educate occupational therapy students who will use knowledge, skills, and values to provide exemplary occupation-based practice while assuming leadership roles at the local, state and national levels.

Accreditation
The Occupational Therapy Program was first awarded accreditation in January 1985. The Occupational Therapy Program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), located at 4720 Montgomery Lane, P.O. Box 31220, Bethesda, MD 20824-1220. AOTA's phone number is (301) 652-AOTA. Graduates of the program will be able to sit for the national certification examination for the occupational therapist administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). After successful completion of this exam, the individual will be an Occupational Therapist, Registered (OTR). Most states require licensure in order to practice; however, state licenses are usually based on the results of the NBCOT Certification Examination.

Other Information
Eligibility for the National Certification Examination requires:

1. Master's degree, with a major in occupational therapy.
2. Successful completion of an accredited occupational therapy curriculum; and
3. Successful completion of a minimum of six months of supervised fieldwork.

Admissions

BS to MS Program

For entrance into the pre-professional phase of the Occupational Therapy Program, students must meet the following requirements:

1. Students seeking admission to the pre-professional phase of the Occupational Therapy Program should have completed high school courses in chemistry, biology, and two to three years of mathematics including Algebra II. They should emphasize communication skills and course work and activities that give them a feel for the developmental sequences that characterize human life from infancy to old age. Students should be in excellent health to be able to handle the rigors of the program and the professional demands that come after graduation.
2. Applicants to the Department of Occupational Therapy should submit their application materials to the Admissions Office during the fall of the year prior to matriculation. Decisions on applicants will be made on a rolling basis. Qualified students who apply after the fall will be admitted on a space-available basis.
3. Space permitting, the UNE OT program will accept qualified transfer students at all stages of the program.
4. A student in the pre-professional phase of the Occupational Therapy Program is encouraged to be a full-time student at the University of New England for his or her first academic year, taking a minimum of 12 credit hours during each semester.
5. Before entering the professional program, a student must have completed a 20-hour volunteer experience and all prerequisite courses.
6. All students who are admitted to the pre-professional OT program as first-year students by the Office of Admissions are guaranteed a spot in the professional program if they then meet the professional program admission requirements.
7. A student admitted into the pre-professional phase of the Occupational Therapy Program must have a 2.5 UNE GPA at the end of the spring semester of the student's first academic year at UNE. A student who does not achieve this GPA will be dismissed from the pre-professional program. At the end of a student’s second year, he or she must have achieved a minimum GPA of 2.75 to continue as a pre-professional OT major.
8. A student who receives a cumulative GPA of 3.0 at UNE by the end of spring semester of his/her third year,  is in good standing, and who has completed all the required course work, is guaranteed a place in the professional program. OT pre-professional students who have a UNE GPA between 2.75 and 3.0 at this time will compete with transfer students, both internal and external, for the remaining seats.
9. The faculty reserves the right to deny enrollment in the professional program to any student who demonstrates behaviors deemed inappropriate for the profession.
10. Internal Transfer Students
    Students who are enrolled in other majors at the University may apply to admission into the OT program at any time.  Interested students should contact the OT Department. Internal transfer students will be held responsible for the UNE core curriculum and the GPA requirements as listed in #2 above.

Master’s Program (Post Baccalaureate and External Transfer Students)

The University of New England offers a 27 month Masters Program (MS in OT).
Post Baccalaureate or external transfer students must apply through the Enrollment Management office. (Link to on-line application). Students may enter the fourth year (professional OT program) on a space available basis, if they have met all the prerequisite course requirements and have at least a 2.75 GPA (3.0 preferred). This group of  students will  compete for slots with pre-professional  OT majors who have between a 2.75 and a 3.0 GPA.

Post Baccalaureate or external transfer students must have completed the following courses prior to entry in the professional program:

• English Composition
• Basic Algebra (can be waived if the student passes math exam)
• Biology (Exempt if Anatomy and Physiology has already been completed)
• An applied creative art course (e.g. ceramics, pottery, theater production, etc.)
• Physics or Chemistry (either as a combined course or separately).  A lab must be included
• Human Development/lifespan (Two courses are usual but one, if it covers the entire lifespan, is acceptable)
• Introduction to Psychology
• Abnormal Psychology
• Human Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology -- 2 semesters, with lab.
• Introduction to Occupational Therapy.  This course, which may be taken on-line, includes medical terminology.  (COTAs are exempt from Introduction to OT)
• Sociology
• Statistics
• Research Methods
• Gross Anatomy
• Neuroscience
• Ethics (Health care ethics preferred)

Exceptions to the above requirements will be considered. Questions regarding these requirements should be directed first to the Admissions Office, then to Jan Froehlich, Advising Coordinator, or to Regi Robnett, Department Director, Department of Occupational Therapy, University of New England.

Students must have a minimum of 90 credits to enter the professional portion of the program.

The initial evaluation of transcripts and experiential learning pertaining to a transfer student to determine credit/waiver of prerequisites required for admission to the professional program shall be done by the UNE Credentials Evaluator.

Technical standards for the Profession of Occupational Therapy

Necessary abilities and skills for the profession of occupational therapy:

• Cognitive abilities to be able to learn to analyze, synthesize, and integrate information related to anatomy, physiology, human       development, psychology, sociology, kinesiology, and occupational studies in order to make clinical judgments and to plan and implement   occupation-based OT interventions that have a high probability of success.
• Understanding of the concepts of assessment and evaluation principles for treatment planning.
• Ability to understand basic statistical concepts and empirical research in order to promote evidence based practice in OT.
• Problem solving/clinical reasoning and judgment that promotes safety, optimal functional performance, remediation and adaptation.
• Ability to design and construct adaptive equipment to enhance occupational performance.
• Time management and organization skills in order to use limited treatment time efficaciously.
• Ability to teach others basic daily skills individually and in a group.
• Interpersonal skills that include participating in classroom discussion, conducting interviews, observing subtle bodily cues, listening,  responding, joint goal setting, and developing positive, respectful client/therapist relationships. 
• Monitoring/assessing performance of self and others and making adjustments in behavior or promoting behavioral change in others to enhance occupational performance.
• Reading, writing, speaking, and understanding English in order to develop positive client relationships, complete written documentation consistent with OT practice, and participate as a health care team member.
• Sufficient postural and neuromuscular control, and sensory functioning in order to perform physical examinations, such as balance, range of motion, and strength, and to accurately, safely, and efficiently use assessment tools, equipment, and other materials during occupational therapy intervention.
• Emotional stability to be able to handle the stress in a usual health care environment, focus on helping others, being dependable, meeting commitments, being forthcoming about one’s own needs, and conducting one’s self in a professional manner during all working hours.
• Ability to maintain personal appearance and hygiene conducive to working in clinical and community setting

Curricular Requirements

The professional program leads to a Master of Science degree with a major in occupational therapy. The program  includes fieldwork experience at clinical sites in the U.S. and Canada.  Occupational therapy students in the five-year master's program will be eligible to receive a bachelor of science degree, with a major in health sciences--occupational studies, upon successful completion of their fourth year of study. They then continue on to pursue a master of science in occupational therapy degree. Only those who complete the professional program will  graduate with an occupational therapy degree.

In the program the student is exposed to:

1. Normal human development, functions, structure, and systems and how these interact to influence health maintenance.
2. Biological, psychological, environmental, and sociocultural conditions that may contribute to or interfere with optimum functioning.
3. Medical, psychosocial, and holistic interventions, which may be used to treat these conditions.
4. Occupational therapy procedures and activities, which may be used to help the individual attain maximal functioning in occupational behavioral ability, choice, and satisfaction.
5. Basic research procedures, supervisory and administrative strategies, and health care delivery systems.
6. Occupational therapy practice. A major strength of the occupational therapy curriculum is its field base. Students are involved in the clinical application of learning each semester of the professional curriculum.

Five Year Masters Students Program Requirements

First three years--Preprofessional

Program/Degree Area		Credits
Life Sciences
ENV 104 - Introduction to Environmental Issues		3
BIO 104 - General Biology		4
BIO 245 - General Principles Human Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology I		4
BIO 345 - General Principles Human Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology II		5
CHE 125 - Introduction to Chemistry and Physics (offered Spring Only)		4
BIO 302 - Gross Anatomy		6
BIO 404 - Neuroscience		4
Humanities
ENG 110 - English Composition		4
Humanities Exploration course*		3
Applied Creative Arts		3
LIL 201 - Human Traditions (English/History)		3
LIL 202 - Human Traditions (History/English)		3
Advanced Humanities		3
CIT 400 - Citizenship		1
Mathematics
MAT 120 - Statistics		3
Social and Behavioral Sciences
PSY 105 - Introduction to Psychology		3
PSY 205 - Abnormal Psychology		3
PSY 220 - Social/Cultural Context of Human Development I		3
PSY 270 - Social/Cultural Context of Human Development II		3
*SOC 150 - Introduction to Sociology -or- Social Science Explorations		3
Other Pre-Professional Core
OTR 201 - Introduction to Occupational Therapy		2
OTR 316 - Research Methods		3
Ethics (PHI or IHH)		3
Kinesiology		3
Electives		11 or more
Total - end of third year of study		90

*Students must take six credits of explorations courses, three of which must be in humanities. During the professional program, two advanced humanities (6 credits), one of which must be Ethics, and CIT 400 - Citizenship (1 credit), are taken in the third or fourth year. (link from Curriculum)

Occupational Therapy Professional Curriculum**

Professional I Fall Semester (Elders/Foundations)		Credits
OTR 505-Foundations of OT		3
OTR 502-Analysis of Occupation		3
OTR 503-Biopsychosocial Dimensions of Elders		3
OTR 504 - Occupational Performance of Elders		3
OTR 551- Community Practicum I		1
OTR-561- Communication Seminar		1
OTR 516-Research project I		2
Total Credits		16
Professional II Spring Semester (Adults)
OTR 511-Dimensions of Adulthood—Newly Acquired Disability (NAD)		2
OTR 512-Occupational Performance in Adulthood (NAD)		2
OTR 513-Dimensions of Adulthood—Living with Disability (LWD)		3
OTR 514-Occupational Performance in Adulthood (LWD)		3
OTR 552-Community Practicum II		2
OTR 563-Problem Based Learning--Adults (PBL)		2
OTR 517—Research Project II		2
Total		16
Professional III Summer Semester (Children and Youth)
OTR 611-Biopsychosocial Dimensions of Children  and Youth		3
OTR 612-Occupational Performance in Children and Youth Group Process/Leadership		4
OTR 664–PBL—Children and Youth		2
OTR 653-Community Practicum III		2
OTR 621-Health Care Management & Delivery		3
OTR 662-Group Leadership		1
Total		15
Fall semester (must be completed before Professional IV semester)
OTR 601-Level II Fieldwork A		6
Professional IV Spring Semester--Integration
OTR 606 or OTR 607 or OTR 608 or OTR 609 - Advanced Practice Seminar		4
OTR 618-Research Seminar		1
OTR 619 - Evidence-Based Research Seminar		3
OTR 630-Capstone Graduate Experience		4
OTR 650 - Delivery Systems - Realities of Practice		4
Total		16
Summer or Fall Second Fieldwork II
OTR 602-Level II Fieldwork B		6
Pre-professional credits		90 or more
Professional Core		34 or more
Total credits for B.S. degree		122 or more
M.S. credits		75

 

** The Occupational Therapy Program faculty reserve the right to change courses or sequences as needed.

Clinical Experience
Students should be prepared for the added expense of weekly travel during Community Practicums. In addition, two three-month full-time Fieldwork II clinical placements are required. All Fieldwork II must be completed within 24 months following commencement exercises. A third three-month internship may be recommended for some students or a specialty internship may be elected. This would have to be completed after the master's year (please see note under curriculum).

The expenses incurred for room and board during these internships, and travel to and from them are the responsibility of each individual student. Students should be prepared for the possibility of a fieldwork assignment anywhere in the United States. Due to the limited number of fieldwork sites available, a lottery system is used for assignment of mental health or pediatric fieldwork and a limited preference selection is used for the placement in physical disabilities. Students must complete one Fieldwork II experience in order to continue with masters level courses.

Research
Students take two research courses (OTR 516 and OTR 517) during their first professional year.  In these courses, students will complete a small-group research project and present their findings. During their final graduate year, they complete the research sequence (OTR 618 and OTR 619). Students often become published authors. To view a list of student-involved publications link here.

Fieldwork
Two levels of fieldwork experience are established in the Essentials and Guidelines of an Accredited Educational Program for the Occupational Therapist and in the Essentials and Guidelines of an Approved Educational Program for the Occupational Therapy Assistant.

LEVEL I 
Level I Fieldwork experience, as required by the Essentials, includes experience designed as an integral part of didactic courses for the purpose of directed observations and participation in selected field settings.  These experiences are not expected to emphasize independent performance, nor are they considered substitutes for or part of sustained Level II Fieldwork experience.

Level I Fieldwork experience is required of both occupational therapy and occupational therapy assistant students by the Essentials.  It is the prerogative of the academic educational program to establish the nature or amount of Level I Fieldwork required.  Consequently, requirements may vary among academic programs and the actual fieldwork experiences may be implemented in a number of different ways.

Supervision must be provided by qualified personnel.  They may include occupational therapy personnel and other appropriate personnel such as teachers, social workers, public health nurses, ministers, probation officers, and physical therapists.

Level I Fieldwork experience, which initially provides the student with exposure to clinical practice through observation, progresses with increasing expectations of the student to demonstrate skills in the use of selected evaluation or treatment procedures; gather and organize data; and examine reactions to clients and patients, self, personnel, and the profession.  Generally the fieldwork education center provides observational opportunities, "hands on" experience as appropriate, feedback to the student, and learning tasks as appropriate.  The center cooperates with academic assignments and provides a written evaluation of the experience.

The focus of the learning experience includes observation, written and verbal communication, professional behavior, and individual and group participation with patients and clients.  The fieldwork education center provides the opportunity for the following:

1. basic exposure, observation, and experience with clients and patients served or potentially served by occupational therapy;
2. observation and description of treatment, evaluation, and behavior of clients and patients;
3. recognition and description of conditions abilities and disabilities; and
4. identification of role functions of the OTR and COTA in various treatment settings.

The student is expected to develop skills and abilities in the following:

1. demonstrating professional work habits;
2. establishing meaningful and comfortable relationships with clients and patients;
3. establishing positive working relationships with staff;
4. demonstrating good judgment in seeking assistance, responding to feedback, and conducting himself or herself ethically and with appropriate courtesy and attitudes in patient/client and staff relationships;
5. formulating general therapeutic goals and objectives;
6. communicating in writing clearly, concisely, and professionally; and
7. assisting in therapeutic activity process.

LEVEL II
Level II Fieldwork is intended to emphasize the application of an academically acquired body of knowledge by providing the student with an in-depth experience in delivery of occupational therapy service to patients/clients.  The Essentials require Level II Fieldwork experience for both occupational therapy and occupational therapy assistant students.

Requirements established in the Essentials for Level II Fieldwork specific to occupational therapy students include the following:

1. a minimum of six months (24 weeks, full time) of Level II Fieldwork experience, preferably with at least three months on a full-time sustained basis;
2. completion of all fieldwork experience no later than 24 months following completion of academic preparation;
3. direct supervision provided by a registered occupational therapist with at least one year of experience.

Master of Science in OT program

Occupational Therapy  Professional Curriculum**

Professional I Fall Semester (Elders/Foundations)		Credits
OTR 505-Foundations of OT		3
OTR 502-Analysis of Occupation		3
OTR 503-Biopsychosocial Dimensions of Elders		3
OTR 504-Occupational Performance of Elders		3
OTR 551-Community Practicum I		1
OTR-561-Communication Seminar		1
OTR 516-Research project I		2
Total		16
Professional II Spring Semester (Adults)
OTR 511-Dimensions of Adulthood—Newly Acquired Disability (NAD)		2
OTR 512-Occupational Performance in Adulthood (NAD)		2
OTR 513-Dimensions of Adulthood—Living with Disability (LWD)		3
OTR 514-Occupational Performance in Adulthood (LWD)		3
OTR 552-Community Practicum II		2
OTR 563-Problem Based Learning--Adults (PBL)		2
OTR 517—Research Project II		2
Total		16
Professional III Summer Semester (Children and Youth)
OTR 611-Biopsychosocial Dimensions of Children  and Youth		3
OTR 612-Occupational Performance in Children and Youth Group Process/Leadership		4
OTR 664–PBL—Children and Youth		2
OTR 653-Community Practicum III		2
OTR 621-Health Care Management & Delivery		3
OTR 662-Group Leadership		1
Total		15
Fall semester (must be completed before Professional IV semester)
OTR 601-Level II Fieldwork A		6
Professional IV Spring Semester--Integration
OTR 606 or OTR 607 or OTR 608 or OTR 609 - Advanced Practice Seminar		4
OTR 618-Research Seminar		1
OTR 619 - Evidence-Based Research Seminar		3
OTR 630-Capstone Graduate Experience		4
OTR 650 - Delivery Systems - Realities of Practice		4
Total		16
Summer or Fall Second Fieldwork II
OTR 602-Level II Fieldwork B		6
Pre-professional credits		90 or more
Professional Core		34 or more
Total credits for B.S. degree		122 or more
M.S. credits		75

** The Occupational Therapy Program faculty reserve the right to change courses or sequences as needed.

Program Standards

Progression Requirements for Preprofessional Courses (numbered 100-499)

All students in the pre-professional phase of the occupational therapy program are subject to the UNE undergraduate grading policy (see underagraduate academic policy).

Students who receive an F in any college level course will be dismissed from the pre-professional OT program.  If a student receives a D in one (1) course, he or she will need to follow the guidelines outlined in the OT student handbook, which is given out during the student’s first semester. Note that students may not continue in the Biology sequence after receiving a D in a prerequisite biology course.

There are three options after receiving a D in a pre-professional course:

1. If a student retakes the course off campus, receiving a grade of C- or better, the D is waived although the new grade will not be figured into the UNE GPA.  Students are strongly encouraged to repeat the course, preferably at UNE whenever possible.
2. If the D is not retaken and the student receives a second D in either a pre-professional course OR a professional level course, he/she is dismissed from the OT program.
3. If the course is repeated at UNE, the new grade will replace the old grade, even if it is lower.  If the new grade is a D, the D stands. In order to take the course a third time the student must petition the OT department. Any further grade of D results in dismissal.  If the new grade is an F, the student will be dismissed from the OT program.

Professional Program  (numbered 500 and higher)

All students admitted into the professional OT program must receive a minimum of B- in every graduate course (500 or 600 level) . A student who receives below a B-  or withdraws from a professional level course, must retake the course and attain a B- or better prior to graduation.

Students should remain aware of the University calendar with regard to withdrawal timetables, and should meet regularly with their advisor if they are experiencing any academic difficulties.

All students must have an overall GPA of 2.75 to continue each successive year of the program. If a 2.75 GPA is not maintained the student has the right to take a one-year leave of absence (LOA) from the OT program and petition for re-admission to the OT program as stated below. GPA must be raised to 2.75 or above for re-admittance, which will occur on a space available basis.

A student who receives an F, a WF, or two Ds will be dismissed from the OT program.

Completion Timeline
A student may at any time in the course of his/her study in the Occupational Therapy Program elect to petition for a modification in the normal program of study as outlined by the Occupational Therapy Department.

Request for Excused Class Absences
Each instructor will develop an individual policy for her/his particular course.

Change of Advisor
A student or faculty member may at any time request a change of advisor for a student.

Academic Policy

Registration/Add/Drop
University registration policies are followed. Each student should meet with his or her advisor prior to signing up for courses.

Student Responsibility for Meeting Requirements
Students are ultimately responsible for insuring that all required courses and credits are completed for and prior to graduating at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Course Withdrawal
Students should contact their course instructor or advisor if they are having any difficulty in a course as there are usually options regarding how to proceed. Course withdrawals should be discussed with the faculty advisor after the initial drop period.

Grading
Occupational Therapy Department Grading Scale for graduate level courses

A	94-100		Outstanding
A-	90-93		Excellent
B+	87-89		Competent
B	84-86		Competent
B-	80-83		Marginal
C+	77-79		Unacceptable
C	74-76		Unacceptable
C-	70-73		Unacceptable
D	60-69		Failing
F	below 60		Failing

Further explanation of grading standards:

• An "A" grade represents a more thorough and integrative presentation of the material.  It demonstrates original thought and use and/or expands and synthesizes additional information.
• A "B" grade is given for achieving the requirements of a specific assignment.

A student may appeal a grade received in the Occupational Therapy Professional Program if, for any reason, the grade is felt to be unfairly awarded.  To do this the student must first submit their justification of the perceived unfairness to the faculty member who is coordinating the course involved.  This must be done within 30 days after the final class period or final exam.  If the issue cannot be resolved to the student's satisfaction, the student may submit their appeal, in writing, at the next scheduled faculty meeting.  The issue will be discussed and the Department Director shall submit to the student, in writing, the decision reached by the faculty concerning the appeal.  A copy of this action will be placed in the student's permanent file.  If the student is not satisfied with the Department's decision, the appeal may then be taken to the College of Health Professions Dean's office for further consideration. 

Competent or proficient grades (e.g. B- or above) are required in all graduate courses. Graduate courses with grades below B- will need to be repeated.

Incomplete Grades
A student may request an incomplete grade for a course from the primary instructor based on individual needs.  If the instructor grants an "incomplete," the student will have until 6 weeks to finish the work required for a change to a letter grade.  The requirements for completion of the course will be determined between the individual student and the instructor.  Failure to complete the work before the deadline date results in an administrative F (fail) which will result  in dismissal from the program. This policy excludes Level II Fieldwork (OTR 601and 602)

Exam Retakes
If a student receives a grade less than C- on a particular exam in an occupational therapy course in the professional program, a retake exam may be given at the discretion of the faculty.  If the student passes the retake exam, a grade of C- will be recorded for that exam.  A second retake may be given also at the discretion of faculty members.  If a student does not pass a second retake, the student will be placed on academic probation.  If the student does not achieve a passing score after a second retake on another exam in the same course, the student will be automatically withdrawn from the course.

Financial Information

Tuition and Fees
Tuition and fees for subsequent years may vary. Other expenses include books and travel. For specific information regarding tuition and fees, please consult the Graduate Financial Information page of this catalog.

Special Expenses for Occupational Therapy
Students who are admitted into the Occupational Therapy Degree Program must be prepared to travel to facilities throughout the United States to complete the community practicum and Fieldwork II requirements. Fieldwork and travel expenses are estimated. Actual expenses are dependent on the location and requirements of the clinical center. Students will have limited preference options in selection of their clinical placements, and final decisions will be made by the occupational therapy academic fieldwork coordinator.

Tuition for 12 credits of fieldwork is included in the fifth-year tuition. Fieldwork is a prerequisite for the National Certification Exam, which is required in order to practice as an Occupational Therapist Registered. A third, optional fieldwork experience may be elected after the fifth year at continuing education rates.

Financial assistance for these additional expenses cannot be guaranteed, although every effort will be made to assist students with major financial problems.

Estimated Additional Expenses	4th Yr	5th Yr
Books and Supplies	$800	$600
Fieldwork Travel	$400	$2,000*
Fieldwork Housing		$3,600*
Student Malpractice Ins	$75	$75
Total	$1,270	$6,220

*includes 6 months Fieldwork II

Financial Aid
Detailed information and applications are available on request from the Financial Aid Office. Call 207-602-2342 or visit the Financial Aid website.

Graduation Requirements
Students must successfully complete all undergraduate courses listed, prior to undergraduate graduation and all graduate courses listed, prior to masters graduation.

This catalog page reflects changes to the Occupational Therapy Program at UNE, effective Fall 2007 (posted December 2007).

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Notice and Responsibilities Regarding this Catalog

This Catalog documents the academic programs, policies, and activities of the University of New England for the 2008-2009 academic year. The information contained herein is accurate as of date of publication August 1, 2008.

The University of New England reserves the right in its sole judgment to make changes of any nature in its programs, calendar, or academic schedule whenever it is deemed necessary or desirable, including changes in course content, the rescheduling of classes with or without extending the academic term, canceling of scheduled classes or other academic activities, in any such case giving such notice thereof as is reasonably practicable under the circumstances.

While each student may work closely with an academic advisor, he or she must retain individual responsibility for meeting requirements in this catalog and for being aware of any changes in provisions or requirements.