Advisors
Kimberly D. Miller, AP Associate Professor Director of Undergraduate Study, Department of Community and Therapeutic Recreation
Brent Wolfe, LRT, CTRS, Associate Professor, Department of Community and Therapeutic Recreation
Occupational therapy (OT) is a healthcare profession that helps individuals develop, regain, or maintain the skills needed for daily living and meaningful activities. Occupational therapists work with people experiencing physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges to enhance their independence and quality of life through therapeutic interventions. They address a wide range of conditions, including neurological disorders, injuries, and developmental disabilities, using evidence-based techniques to improve mobility, self-care, and work. There are two entry-level options for becoming an occupational therapist: a Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) or a Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD).
At UNCG, students may pursue a concentration in recreational therapy in the Department of Community and Therapeutic Recreation to develop a strong foundation for graduate study in OT. Recreational therapy is an allied health profession in which practitioners can become licensed and certified with a bachelor’s degree. Recreational therapists use evidence-based interventions including animal-assisted therapy, adaptive sports, leisure education, and community integration, to support individuals with disabilities, injuries, and illnesses. Students pursuing a degree in recreational therapy gain foundational knowledge in therapeutic interventions, client-centered care, and adaptive strategies that align well with the core principles of OT.
There are currently seven fully accredited OT programs in North Carolina: East Carolina University, Lenoir-Rhyne University, Methodist University, Pfeiffer University, UNC Chapel Hill, Wingate University, and Winston-Salem State University.
Requirements
Requirements for entry into an M.S. program in O.T. generally include the courses detailed below. Additional recommendations may include (depending on the master’s program of interest to student) a course in either an academic or community-based setting that requires the skills of the body and mind, such as art, music, dance, recreation, sports classes, theater, etc. First aid and CPR certification may also be required. Students should contact an advisor for assistance in planning their program of study.
Course List
| Code |
Title |
Credit Hours |
| Principles of Biology I
and Principles of Biology I Laboratory | |
| Human Anatomy
and Human Anatomy Laboratory | |
| Human Physiology
and Human Physiology Laboratory | |
| Adult Psychopathology | |
| Elementary Introduction to Probability and Statistics | |
| Human Development Across the Life Span | |
| Developmental Psychology |
