Occupational Therapy - University at Buffalo

Occupational Therapy from University at Buffalo is a Campus Bachelor Occupational Therapy degree that prepares you for a Healthcare career. The Occupational Therapy Program, as part of the Rehabilitation Science Department in the School of Public Health and Health Professions at the University at Buffalo , is based on the philosophical belief that people have a vital need for occupation. Occupation is defined as the meaningful and productive ways in which people use their time. It includes activities such as self-care, play, learning, work, and leisure. A person's engagement in occupations fulfills four primary functions: (1) to acquire skills and behaviors necessary for insuring one's survival, (2) to achieve a sense of quality in one's life, (3) to contribute to the progress and well-being of society, and (4) to promote one's personal physical and mental well-being. The ability to engage in occupation and realize these four functions may be compromised as a result of illness, disability, or other life circumstances. A fundamental principle of the Occupational Therapy Program is that human beings learn and adapt through active engagement in occupations. Learning and adaptation occurs when a person receives information from his or her senses, processes it, and compares it with knowledge and experience previously obtained. Through repetition of these experiences, new behaviors are demonstrated and used. These fundamental concepts are applied to the clients that we prepare our students to work with, as well as to the students themselves. Clients who receive occupational therapy services are engaged in active, meaningful occupational activities. Following observation, evaluation, and consultation with the client and family, therapists choose activities that are appropriate for the individual's developmental level, skill level, and the environment in which the client will function. This is done to enable the client to move towards occupational goals and a greater degree of health and independence. View more details on University at Buffalo . Ask your questions and apply online for this program or find other related Occupational Therapy courses.