#United States #San Diego #Alliant University #Occupational Therapy #Health Sciences

Alliant International University's New Master of Occupational Therapy Program

Alliant International University, known for its focus on psychology, education, and health sciences, will officially launch its Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) program in the fall of 2025. This new initiative comes in response to an increasing demand for skilled occupational therapists, with growth expectations surpassing many other professions, as mentioned by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Adele Breen-Franklin, the Program Director, emphasizes the holistic and adaptable nature of occupational therapy, stating, "Occupational therapy isn't a cookie-cutter job — you need to think holistically and take a flexible approach to help clients regain the functions that matter most to them." This reflects the philosophy embedded within the new MOT program, which aims to cultivate both the practical and theoretical skills necessary for future therapists.

The MOT program is distinctive due to its hybrid structure, combining both online and on-campus components to ensure comprehensive training. Students will receive substantial practical experience, a necessity for their professional development. Unlike typical MOT programs, Alliant's curriculum provides students with clinical training not only in standard treatment environments like schools and hospitals but also through nontraditional methods such as equine therapy, dance, and gardening therapies. This diverse approach aims to attract individuals interested in merging creative arts with therapeutic practices.

Assistant Professor Anna Do, who has a background in psychology combined with a passion for dance, remarked, "Occupational therapy uniquely blends art and science. It's incredibly meaningful to help clients resume their daily activities, and the movement in creative fields like dance can be an excellent tool to achieve that." This adds an exciting dimension to the coursework, allowing students to explore varied pathways within the field.

The newly established campus facility, located near the Scripps Ranch community, is equipped with modern amenities, including a simulated acute care environment, a pediatrics lab, and even a fully functioning apartment. This state-of-the-art setup allows students to practice skills essential for their future careers, whether they aim for roles in institutional settings or home care.

Moreover, the structure of Alliant's MOT program emphasizes not just professional training but also the concept of continuous development. Each trimester includes opportunities for level-one fieldwork, where students gain experience in real-world scenarios, alongside their formal online and onsite education. Faculty advisors are assigned to monitor student progress, assess critical professional competencies, help manage caseloads, and prepare graduates for board certification exams and the job market after graduation.

Alliant International University has been an integral part of the San Diego community for over fifty years, and the introduction of the MOT program signals a commitment to evolving with the needs of community healthcare. President and CEO Andy Vaughn stated, "Our investment in the new MOT program and facility demonstrates our commitment to prepare leaders for the next 50 years and beyond. With an array of innovative healthcare programs now including a Master of Occupational Therapy, Alliant graduates will continue to impact the future of healthcare positively."

For more information about the Master of Occupational Therapy program and Alliant International University, interested individuals can visit this link.

About Alliant International University

Alliant International University is dedicated to preparing its students to become trailblazers in their respective fields through impactful, practical training. With a history of over a century in educating and empowering professionals, Alliant adopts a hands-on learning approach aimed at creating a positive community influence. The university is accredited by APA and WASC, offering a range of professional degree programs across its various schools, including the California School of Professional Psychology and the California School of Education. Alliant boasts a nationwide enrollment of over 4,400 students, providing both online and campus-based programs in California and Arizona. Learn more about how Alliant and its alumni contribute to communities worldwide at www.alliant.edu.