University of the Cumberlands introduces new Occupational Therapy Doctorate program

The University of the Cumberlands has introduced a new graduate degree program in Occupational Therapy. The program spans nine semesters and prepares students to become healthcare professionals who promote health and well-being in patients in their daily activities. The program aims to prepare individuals to work in rural, underserved, and vulnerable populations.

According to an article on the University of the Cumberlands’ website, Dr. Vidya Pingale, who serves as the program’s director and an associate professor, was quoted as saying of the new program, “From day one, students engage in hands-on labs, real-world case simulations, and collaborative learning experiences that build strong clinical reasoning and evidence-based decision-making skills. Graduates of the Cumberlands OTD program are prepared to thrive in hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, community programs, private practice, and emerging practice areas. Through intentional service-learning, community engagement, and capstone projects, students are prepared to become compassionate healthcare leaders. The OTD program embodies the University of the Cumberlands’ mission by expanding access to healthcare education and improving quality of life for individuals and families—particularly in rural, underserved, and vulnerable communities.”

The program has been designed for students who have at least 90 undergraduate credits or who have a bachelor degree. It will prepare students to become client-centered, evidence-informed, and occupation-focused occupational therapists who assist their clients with their daily practices. 

Students can choose to take the program in a traditional or accelerated manner. The accelerated version of the program is intended to reduce the overall costs of achieving a doctorate but maintain the academic rigor. Students will become prepared for licensure exams and participate in professional development opportunities.

The University of the Cumberlands has applied for accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA).

For more information about the University of the Cumberlands, visit the school’s website.