Muskingum News

Broadening its offerings in graduate and continuing studies, Muskingum University is announcing its plan to launch a Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) program. The University has initiated the accreditation process by submitting a “Letter of Intent” to the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Educators (ACOTE), and has hired Dr. Mary Arnold, OTD, OTR/L, FAOTA to lead the development of the new program as Program Director.

“By recognizing specific needs in our region and acting to fulfill them, Muskingum has experienced tremendous growth in our graduate and adult learning programs,” said Muskingum University President Susan S. Hasseler. “We know our region needs occupational therapists, but we also know it’s essential that this program provide a path reflective of the reality that many adult learners face — balancing work and pursuing their education. This program is designed to help them do that.”

Working with two-year Occupational Therapy Assistant programs around the country, including that offered locally by Zane State College, the anticipated program is designed to allow students with an associate's degree to continue their education at Muskingum University and earn a Master of Occupational Therapy degree. Muskingum’s two-year Master of Occupational Therapy program will combine online instruction with 21 on-campus classroom weekends on the University’s campus in New Concord.

“I am energized by the interest and support that has been evident during my time at the University,” Dr. Arnold said. “Students are already preparing themselves for eventual application to the proposed Master of Occupational Therapy Program by taking prerequisite courses. This suggests to me that the need for OTs in our region is real and that occupational therapy assistants are excited for the opportunity to advance their careers. I intend to make this program accessible and relevant in order for them to realize that goal.”

Prospective students interested in pursuing a Master of Occupational Therapy degree at Muskingum University should visit muskingum.edu/gcs/mot or contact Dr. Arnold at 740-826-8466 or marnold@muskingum.edu.