OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST
ASSISTANT
STUDENT HANDBOOK
2014 - 2015
Kirkwood Community College
Allied Health
319-398-5566
1-800-332-2055
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WELCOME
Welcome to Kirkwood Community College and the Occupational Therapy Assistant Program.
You have chosen a challenging and an exciting career in Occupational Therapy and we want to
do everything we can to ensure your success. There are a number of resources available to you
at the college in addition to a dedicated faculty.
This handbook has been prepared as a special resource containing information pertinent to
Kirkwood Community College’s Occupational Therapy Assistant Program. You will also want to
review the information under the Current Student link on the Kirkwood homepage. Please read
and familiarize yourself with the information in this handbook and on the Kirkwood Current
Student webpage. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Occupational
Therapy Assistant Program Director.
Nicky Cline, Dean and OTA Program Director-Administrative
Laura Green, OTA Lead Faculty Coordinator
Kim Prevo, Academic Fieldwork Coordinator
Tiffany Reaves, Adjunct Faculty and OTA program advisor
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section I ........................................................................................................................................................... 6
HANDBOOK INFORMATION ..................................................................................................................... 6
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES............................................................................................................... 6
KIRKWOOD STUDENT HANDBOOK ...................................................................................................... 6
Section II .......................................................................................................................................................... 7
ADMISSION INFORMATION ...................................................................................................................... 7
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................................................... 7
TRANSFER CREDIT EVALUATION ........................................................................................................ 8
WAIVER OF COURSE REQUIREMENTS/CREDIT BY EXAMINATION ................................................. 8
HIGH SCHOOL HEALTH ACADEMY ARTICULATION ........................................................................... 8
PRE-COURSE WORK ............................................................................................................................. 8
Section IIIA ...................................................................................................................................................... 9
PROGRAM INFORMATION ....................................................................................................................... 9
DESCRIPTION ......................................................................................................................................... 9
MISSION STATEMENT .......................................................................................................................... 10
PHILOSOPHY ........................................................................................................................................ 10
PROGRAM OUTCOMES ....................................................................................................................... 11
ACCREDITATION .................................................................................................................................. 13
PERFORMANCE STANDARDS ............................................................................................................ 13
PLANS OF STUDY ................................................................................................................................. 16
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS .................................................................................................................... 17
HUMANITIES REQUIREMENT .............................................................................................................. 20
ESTIMATED PROGRAM COSTS .......................................................................................................... 23
Section IIIB .................................................................................................................................................... 24
CLASSROOM/LAB/FIELDWORK ............................................................................................................. 24
CONFIDENTIALITY ................................................................................................................................ 24
PROFESSIONALISM ............................................................................................................................. 24
CLASSROOM/LABORATORY/CLINIC POLICIES ................................................................................ 24
OTA TECHNICAL COURSE POLICIES ................................................................................................. 25
SYLLABUS ............................................................................................................................................. 25
ABSENCES ............................................................................................................................................ 25
VERBAL / WRITTEN COMMUNICATION .............................................................................................. 26
FACULTY OFFICE HOURS ................................................................................................................... 26
FIELDWORK EXPERIENCES................................................................................................................ 26
GENERAL FIELDWORK POLICIES ...................................................................................................... 26
LEVEL I FIELDWORK EXPERIENCES ................................................................................................. 27
LEVEL II FIELDWORK EXPERIENCES ................................................................................................ 28
PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS ..................................................................................................... 28
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT CLUB ................................................................................. 28
CLINICAL COMPLIANCE ....................................................................................................................... 29
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FELONY/CRIMINAL CHECKS ............................................................................................................... 29
BASIC LIFE SUPPORT (CPR) POLICY ................................................................................................ 30
INFECTION CONTROL/OSHA/EXPOSURE ......................................................................................... 30
ILLNESS/ACCIDENTS ........................................................................................................................... 30
BBP POST-EXPOSURE EVALUATION & FOLLOW-UP ...................................................................... 31
HEALTH INSURANCE ........................................................................................................................... 33
WEATHER .............................................................................................................................................. 33
Section IIIC .................................................................................................................................................... 34
REGISTRATION / GRADES ..................................................................................................................... 34
REGISTRATION ..................................................................................................................................... 34
CHANGE OF REGISTRATION .............................................................................................................. 34
SCHOLARSHIPS AND LOANS.............................................................................................................. 34
EXTRA-CURRICULAR COLLEGE ACTIVITIES .................................................................................... 35
GRADES................................................................................................................................................. 35
SATISFACTORY PROGRESS ............................................................................................................... 35
PHI THETA KAPPA HONOR SOCIETY ................................................................................................ 36
WITHDRAWAL FROM THE PROGRAM ............................................................................................... 37
READMISSION TO THE PROGRAM .................................................................................................... 37
PART-TIME STATUS ............................................................................................................................. 37
COURSE REPEAT POLICY................................................................................................................... 38
ACADEMIC HONESTY .......................................................................................................................... 38
COMMUNICATIONS .............................................................................................................................. 38
GRIEVANCE & ACADEMIC APPEAL POLICY ...................................................................................... 38
Section IV ...................................................................................................................................................... 39
PROGRAM COMPLETION ....................................................................................................................... 39
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS.......................................................................................................... 39
STUDENT/GRADUATE INPUT .............................................................................................................. 39
CERTIFICATION .................................................................................................................................... 40
LICENSURE ........................................................................................................................................... 40
ARTICULATION OPPORTUNITIES ....................................................................................................... 40
TRANSFERRING OTA TECHNICAL COURSES .................................................................................. 41
Section V ....................................................................................................................................................... 42
GENERAL INFORMATION ....................................................................................................................... 42
COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION ............................................................................................................. 42
CONTACT INFORMATION .................................................................................................................... 42
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Section I
HANDBOOK INFORMATION
This handbook has been prepared as a special resource containing information pertinent to the
program. If you have questions, need assistance or clarification on any policies, procedures, or
requirements, you are strongly encouraged to see your program coordinator. No rule or
statement in this handbook is intended to discriminate nor will this program knowingly, for the
purpose of clinical experience, place students in other agencies which discriminate on the basis of
sex, race, color, creed, national origin, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, or marital status.
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
Each student is responsible for familiarity and compliance with information appearing in this
program handbook as well as the Kirkwood Community College online student policies located at
this link http://www.kirkwood.edu/studentpolicies Failure to read the information will not be
considered an excuse for non-compliance. The Kirkwood Student Handbook may be online at
http://www.kirkwood.edu/students.
The faculty has adopted the policies in this program handbook. If a student finds that an
extenuating circumstance might justify a waiver of a particular policy, the student may petition the
director of the program. The program reserves the right to change policies or revise curricula as
necessary due to unanticipated circumstances. Students registered in technical courses will be
informed of curricular changes.
KIRKWOOD STUDENT HANDBOOK
Refer to the Kirkwood Student Handbook for the following policies:
Academic Information
American Disabilities Act
Cheating and Plagiarism
College policies & procedures
Confidentiality
EEO
Financial Aid
Equal Rights
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General Information
Outreach services
Sexual Harassment.
Student Conduct
Student Life
Student Services - Counseling, Personal Achievement
Tutoring, Writing Center, etc
6
Section II
ADMISSION INFORMATION
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
All students seeking admission to this program must complete all of the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Complete a Kirkwood Community College Application: listing Occupational
Therapist Assistant as your major. This can be done online or mail to Enrollment
Services 216 Kirkwood Hall. Students may apply to one Kirkwood program at any time.
The newest application automatically cancels any previous application.
View Admissions Video and Attend a Program Conference: These are scheduled as
one-hour program conferences monthly. Dates of upcoming program conferences can
be found on the department website, www.kirkwood.edu/alliedhealth. Please sign up to
attend on the website.
Provide Evidence of Academic Readiness:
 The COMPASS placement test, ACT, or SAT may be accepted. The test must
have been completed within the last three years. NO MINIMUM score is required
for admission into the Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
 Applicants with an associate, bachelor’s, or higher degree will be exempt from
competing a placement test.
HOBET V Exam:
 Students must meet the minimum cut score of 66.7% or higher to be eligible for
admission into the Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
 Students have a total of THREE attempts to pass the exam.
 After the 2nd unsuccessful attempt students are encouraged to meet with the
Occupational Therapy Assistant Program Director.
 After the 3rd unsuccessful attempt students will no longer be eligible to enter the
Occupational Therapy Assistant program.
 Visit http://www.kirkwood.edu/site/index.php?p=28564 to find out more about and
register for the HOBET V exam
Submit Admissions Criteria Checklist: Students MUST submit their admissions
criteria checklist to the Allied Health office when all admission requirements are
completed. Applicants meeting requirements are accepted in order of checklist
submission date. Twenty-four students are accepted each fall semester. After the
program is full, students are accepted to a numbered waiting list. The first 24 on the
waiting list will be accepted for the following fall.
**ONCE A STUDENT IS ADMITTED: Arrange a Clinic visit by start of the program.
It is important that all students keep Enrollment Services informed of:
a)
name changes
b)
address changes
c)
telephone changes
d)
change of intention to enter the program
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Failure to notify Kirkwood of the above changes may result in a cancellation from the acceptance
list.
Applicants have 8 weeks after the start of the first semester to complete a clinic visit and the
questionnaire. Failure to complete the clinic visit and return the questionnaire may result in
cancellation from the program.
TRANSFER CREDIT EVALUATION
College courses taken prior to beginning the program at Kirkwood may be evaluated for possible
transfer credit. To have a transcript evaluated, the student must request an official transcript from
each college be sent to:
Kirkwood Community College
Enrollment Services
6301 Kirkwood Blvd. SW
Cedar Rapids, IA 52406-9973
Transcripts sent directly to the program faculty are not acceptable. Your transcripts will be
evaluated based on the Kirkwood major you have declared. You can run a Degree Audit in
EagleNet to see how your credits were awarded.
WAIVER OF COURSE REQUIREMENTS/CREDIT BY EXAMINATION
The program faculty will review credits awarded by the Credit by Examination process. This may
be done either through the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) or by department
examinations where available. Please refer to the college catalog for additional information.
Questions regarding waiver of course requirements and/or credit by exam should be directed to
the program director.
HIGH SCHOOL HEALTH ACADEMY ARTICULATION
Course work earned while a student in the High School Health Academy program is on the
student's Kirkwood transcript and may meet specific program requirements.
PRE-COURSE WORK
Students are encouraged to begin taking selected courses prior to beginning their program.
Students should refer to the program web page at www.kirkwood.edu/alliedhealth for current
registration and curriculum information. There will be no substitution of courses in the curriculum
unless approved by the program director.
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Section IIIA
PROGRAM INFORMATION
DESCRIPTION
Occupational therapy assistants provide services to individuals whose abilities to perform daily
living tasks are impaired by developmental deficits, the aging process or physical and
psychosocial disabilities. Functional activities are used to help individuals learn the tasks needed
to live as independently as possible.
Occupational therapy assistants work under the guidance of registered occupational therapists to
assess a person’s ability and disability, plan the treatment program, and provide the treatments
and independent living training. Additional responsibilities include documentation of therapy
services and maintenance of therapy clinic supplies and equipment.
The Occupational Therapy Assistant Program consists of 5 terms and 80 credit hours. It includes
general educational courses, OTA technical lecture and lab courses, and fieldwork.
The program includes off-campus field work in settings where occupational therapy is practiced.
During field work, the students will have an opportunity to apply the theory and practice the
responsibilities expected of an entry level occupational therapy assistant.
Entry Time:
Length:
Award:
Fall semester
Two years (four semesters, one summer)
Associate of Applied Science degree
Employment Opportunities:
 Hospitals
 Clinics
 Rehabilitation facilities
 Long-term care facilities
 Sheltered workshops
 Area education agencies
 Private practices
Suggested Preparation:
 Anatomy
 Psychology
 Communications
THE COLLEGE MISSION STATEMENT
Kirkwood Community College identifies community needs; provides accessible, quality education
and training; and promotes opportunities for lifelong learning.
To accomplish this mission we are committed to creating an environment in which we constantly
strive for improvement.
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MISSION STATEMENT
The College Mission Statement
Kirkwood Community College identifies community needs; provides accessible, quality education
and training; and promotes opportunities for lifelong learning.
To accomplish this mission we are committed to creating an environment in which we constantly
strive for improvement.
The OTA Program Mission
The mission of the program is to prepare a diverse student population to be competent
Occupational Therapy Assistants who view their clients holistically; serve the needs of the
community; advocate for the underserved; and commit to lifelong learning.
Relationship of the OTA Program Mission to that of the College
It is the mission of the college to meet the needs of the community. The OTA program reflects that
in its mission by serving the occupational needs of the community. In addition, the community
college has a long reputation for being open and accessible to students, the OTA mission reflects
that in mission to prepare a diverse student population that advocates for the underserved. The
college maintains a high level of excellence in its course delivery and the OTA mission reflects
that in our mission to prepare competent and holistic practitioners. The OTA program also
commits to preparing students to be lifelong learners as reflected in the college mission.
PHILOSOPHY
The Occupational Therapy Assistant Program at Kirkwood Community College has as its
philosophical foundation the belief that occupation and purposeful activity are the essence of
meaningful and productive life styles. Humans engage in occupations as whole persons. All
people of all cultures throughout their lifespan universally engage in purposeful activity. It is our
belief that each person is unique and has the potential to make meaningful contributions for the
good of humanity. It is the role of the occupational therapy practitioner to view their client
holistically and within the context of their daily lives. It is also the of the occupational therapy
assistant to advocate for the occupational needs of the individual and the community. We also
believe that humans are in a process of continuous adaptation and lifelong learning.
Occupational Therapy Assistants evaluate and treat individuals and populations according to their
needs to promote self-esteem and self-efficacy. It is this unique knowledge that differentiates
them from other disciplines and enables them to assist the Occupational Therapist in the
evaluation and treatment process of a diverse and multicultural society.
The program believes that learning occurs developmentally. Foundational skills are introduced
and new knowledge is built upon and integrated with previous knowledge. The program also
believes that instruction must be responsive to a student's diverse needs and learning styles and
that delivery of instruction must include a variety of methods to assure learning of entry level
skills. As humans develop holistically the program believes that coursework should also be
developmental and holistic. The program strives to create learning environments that develop
holistic and quality skills in practice, advocacy, service and the promotion of lifelong learning.
Learning is collaborative between the student, the faculty, the college, and the community.
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PROGRAM OUTCOMES
1. The student will be able to provide quality services to clients and view clients holistically
using occupational therapy throughout the lifespan as identified by:
a. The ability to view the client at any stage of the lifespan as a whole person with
physical, psychosocial, and cognitive needs
b. The ability to implement the occupational therapy treatment process utilizing the
occupational therapy domain of practice.
c. The ability to evaluate and treat clients along the function dysfunction continuum
through the lifespan.
2. The student will be able to provide services to clients from many diverse backgrounds as
identified by:
a. The ability to recognize that occupation occurs within context
b. The ability to identify diversity in society
c. The ability to work with and for people with diverse needs.
3. The student will demonstrate awareness of the need for advocacy and be able to promote
occupation to serve community needs as identified by:
a. The ability to recognize and assess for occupational needs within the community.
b. The ability to advocate for underserved populations that would benefit from
occupational therapy.
c. The ability to assist with the design and implementation of community needs
projects.
4. The student will create a plan for lifelong learning as identified by:
a. The ability to self-assess for strengths and opportunities.
b. The ability to identify personal and career goals.
c. The ability to identify areas of need and identify personal fit.
d. The ability to create a professional development plan
Curriculum Design
The curriculum is designed using a developmental model which is consistent with the mission and
philosophy of the program and institution. It is designed around four threads which are developed
and built upon each semester. Each thread is expanded upon in breadth and depth as the
program progresses. This recursive process involves reintroduction of the thread, increasing the
breadth of knowledge and increasing the depth of application progressively through each
semester.
The threads of knowledge reflective of the mission and philosophy and developed throughout the
program include: evaluation and intervention of the occupational needs for the whole person,
diversity and the human condition, advocacy for the needs of the community, and the importance
of lifelong learning.
These threads are advanced sequentially by semester in breadth and depth. The first semester
of the program consists of the introduction of concepts and language of the four curriculum
threads. The second semester requires the student to investigate the concepts and use the
language in appropriate settings. The third and fourth semesters take the concepts and language
and require the student to assimilate into practice. The fifth and final semester requires the
student to apply the concepts and create new ideas.
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The following chart illustrates the scope and sequence of the curriculum design. The number in
each box represents the semester in which the action primarily occurs.
Using
occupation to
evaluate and
treat the
Whole Person
Introduction to
concepts and
learning the
language
Investigation into
the concepts
Semester One
Understand basic
occupational theories
(1)
Semester Two
Understand
physical, cognitive
and psychosocial
pathology (2)
Understand and use
Task Analysis (1)
Understand the
Framework and
Medical Terminology
(1)
Diversity
Understand Normal
Development of the
physical , cognitive,
and psychosocial self
(2)
Understand the
definition of diversity
(1)
Identify cultural
differences(1)
Advocacy for
Community
Needs
Lifelong
Learning
Understand the
definition of
population based
occupational therapy
(1)
Understand the
importance of context
in treatment (1)
Complete selfassessment process
(1)
Complete personal
goals (1)
Begin portfolio (1)
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Explore the use of
occupation based
evaluation and
treatment for
physical, cognitive,
and psychosocial
pathology (2-3)
Identify the diverse
needs of our local
community (2)
Articulate the
relationship of
diversity to lifespan
and development (2)
Identify occupational
intervention
strategies for
community needs
(2)
Identify areas of
interest, areas of
need, and emerging
practice areas (2)
Complete self –
assessment on
progression towards
goals and update
goals (2)
12
Addition of
concepts and
assimilation
into practice
Semester Three
and Four
Utilize
occupational
based evaluation
and treatment
and apply to
specific
populations and
specialized
treatment
areas(3 and 4)
Application and
Creation of
concepts
Demonstrate
comprehension
of diversity when
utilizing
occupational
interventions (3)
Create evaluation
and treatment
plans which
demonstrate
understanding of
the diverse needs
of the client (4,5)
Implement
occupational
strategies in
identified
community
areas (2-3)
Generate
opportunities for
occupational
therapy and
community
involvement (4
and 5)
Integrate specific
practice areas
and areas of
interest into
portfolio (3 and
4)
Create a
professional
development plan
(4)
Semester Five
Create
occupational
based evaluation
and treatment
and apply to
specific
populations and
specialized
treatment areas
(5)
Update plan and
complete portfolio
(5)
AMERICAN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSOCIATION
THE PHILOSOPHICAL BASE OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
Man is an active being whose development is influenced by the use of purposeful activity. Using
their capacity for intrinsic motivation, human beings are able to influence their physical and mental
health and their social and physical environment through purposeful activity. Human life includes
a process of continuous adaptation. Adaptation is a change in function that promotes survival and
self-actualization.
Biological, psychological, and environmental factors may interrupt the
adaptation process at any time throughout the life cycle. Dysfunction may occur when adaptation
is impaired. Purposeful activity facilitates the adaptive process.
Occupational therapy is based on the belief that purposeful activity (occupation), including its
interpersonal and environmental components, may be used to prevent and mediate dysfunction,
and to elicit maximum adaptation. Activity as used by the Occupational Therapist includes both
an intrinsic and a therapeutic purpose.
Adopted by the AOTA Representative Assembly - April, 1979
1991 OT/OTA Guide to the Report of Self-Study
ACCREDITATION
The Occupational Therapy Assistant Program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for
Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association,
Inc.
4720 Montgomery Lane, Suite 200, Bethesda, MD 20814-3449 Phone: (301) 652-AOTA (2682);
Fax: (301) 652-1417.
PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
Iowa Core Performance Standards
for
Health Care Career Programs
Iowa Community Colleges have developed Core Performance Standards for all applicants to
Health Care Career Programs. These standards are based upon required abilities that are
compatible with effective performance in health care careers. Applications unable to meet the
Core Performance standards are responsible for discussing the possibility of reasonable
accommodations with the designated institutional office. Before final admission into a health
career program, applicants are responsible for providing medical and other documentation related
to any disability and the appropriate accommodations needed to meet the Core Performance
Standards. These materials must be submitted in accordance with the institution’s ADA Policy.
Capability
Standard
CognitivePerception
The ability to perceive events
realistically, to think clearly and
rationally, and to function
appropriately in routine and
stressful situations.
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Some Examples of Necessary
Activities (Not all Inclusive)
 Identify changes in patient/client
health status
 Handle multiple priorities in
stressful situations
 Respond to rapidly changing
client status
Capability
Standard
Critical Thinking
Critical thinking ability sufficient
for sound clinical judgment.
Interpersonal
Interpersonal abilities sufficient
to interact appropriately with
individuals, families and groups
from a variety of social,
emotional, cultural and
intellectual backgrounds.
Communication
Communication abilities in
English sufficient for appropriate
interaction with others in verbal
and written form
Mobility
Ambulatory capability to
sufficiently maintain a center of
gravity when met with an
opposing force as in lifting,
supporting, and/or transferring a
patient/client.
Gross and fine motor abilities
sufficient to provide safe and
effective care and
documentation.
Motor Skills
Hearing
Auditory ability sufficient to
monitor and assess, or
document health needs.
Some Examples of Necessary
Activities (Not all Inclusive)
 Identify cause-effect
relationships in clinical situations
 Develop plans of care
 Ability to respond appropriately
and quickly in emergency
situations
 Establish rapport with
patients/clients and colleagues
 Demonstrate high degree of
patience
 Manage a variety of patient/client
expressions (anger, fear,
hostility) in a calm manner
 Read, understand, write and
speak English competently
 Explain treatment procedures
 Initiate health teaching
 Document patient/client
responses
 Validate responses/messages
with others
 The ability to propel wheelchairs,
stretchers, etc., alone or with
assistance as available
 The ability to ambulate patients
utilizing a gait belt








Visual
Tactile
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Visual ability sufficient for
observation and assessment
necessary in patient/client care,
accurate color discrimination.

Tactile ability sufficient for
physical assessment, inclusive
of size, shape, temperature and
texture


14


Position patients/clients
Transfer patients/clients
Reach, manipulate, and operate
equipment, instruments and
supplies
Lift, carry, push and pull
Electronic Documentation
Perform CPR
Hears monitor alarms,
emergency signals, ausculatory
sounds, cries for help
Hears telephone
interactions/dictation
Observes patient/client
responses
Discriminates color changes
Accurately reads measurement
on patient/client related
equipment
Performs palpation
Performs functions of physical
examination and/or those related
to therapeutic intervention.
Capability
Standard
Activity Tolerance
The ability to tolerate lengthy
periods of physical activity.
Environmental
Ability to tolerate environmental
stressors
Some Examples of Necessary
Activities (Not all Inclusive)
 Move quickly and/or
continuously
 Tolerate long periods of standing
and/or sitting
 Adapt to rotating shifts
 Work with chemicals and
detergents
 Tolerate exposure to fumes and
odors
 Work in areas that are close and
crowded
 Work in areas of potential
physical violence
Students who do not possess one or more of these abilities should seek assistance from the
Kirkwood Learning Services Office concerning any flexibility in program requirement. When
possible, reasonable accommodation of a disability will be discussed and approached in a
manner appropriate to the individual’s needs. It will be the student’s responsibility to initiate the
accommodations process and to facilitate communication between the faculty and the Learning
Services department.
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PLANS OF STUDY
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT
DEGREE
Term
New
Course #
Lecture
Hours
Course Name
Lab
Hours
Clinic
Hours
Total
Credit Hours
Fall
Fall
Fall
Fall
Fall
Fall
Fall
BIO-161
HSC-107
PSY-111
OTA-100
OTA-150
OTA-207
OTA-208
Basic Anatomy & Physiology*
Professionals in Health*
Intro to Psychology*
Foundations of OT
OTA Medical Terminology
OT Methods I
Occupational Development
Term totals
32
32
48
48
24
32
40
256
32
0
0
0
0
32
0
64
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
3.0
2.0
3.0
3.0
1.5
3.0
2.5
18.0
Spring
Spring
Spring
Spring
Spring
Spring
Spring
OTA-211
OTA-212
OTA-306
OTA-405
OTA-850
SPC-101
COM-222
Pathophysiology for the OTA
Functional Kinesiology
OT Methods II
Psychosocial Dysfunction
OTA Fieldwork I-A
Fundamentals of Oral Comm* OR
Comm. For Healthcare Professional
Term totals
64
32
32
64
8
48
48
248
0
32
32
0
0
0
0
64
0
0
0
0
24
0
0
24
4.0
3.0
3.0
4.0
1.0
3.0
3.0
18.0
Summer
Summer
Summer
Summer
ENG-105
OTA-308
OTA-309
OTA-851
Composition I*
Physical Dysfunction I
Physical Dysfunction II
OTA Fieldwork I-B
Term totals
48
48
48
8
152
0
32
32
0
64
0
0
0
24
24
3.0
4.0
4.0
1.0
12.0
Fall
Fall
Fall
Fall
Fall
Fall
Fall
OTA-200
OTA-205
OTA-406
OTA-410
OTA-411
OTA-853
ELECT
Community Health & Special Pops.
OTA Management
OT Methods III
PED Interventions for the OTA
GER Interventions for the OTA
OTA Fieldwork I-C
Humanities Elective*
Term totals
48
32
32
32
24
24
48
240
32
0
32
0
0
0
0
64
0
0
0
0
0
48
0
48
4.0
2.0
3.0
2.0
1.5
2.5
3.0
18.0
Spring
Spring
Spring
OTA-409
OTA-852
OTA-854
OTA Professional Development
OTA Fieldwork II-A
OTA Fieldwork II-B
Term totals
32
0
0
32
0
0
0
0
0
288
288
576
2.0
6.0
6.0
14.0
PROGRAM TOTALS
CREDIT AVERAGE PER TERM
*Courses may be taken before beginning program.
Lab ratio 1:12
976
256
672
80.0
15.8
OTA 2014-15
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COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
The following are course descriptions for the Occupational Therapy Assistant technical
courses.
For descriptions of other courses, please access online at
www.kirkwood.edu/catalog
OTA-100 Foundations of Occupational Therapy (3)
Introduces the philosophical, ethical and theoretical concepts of the current practice of
occupational therapy. Provides an overview of the role of the OT and OTA in the processes of
patient evaluation, intervention planning, implementation and discharge. Addresses human
diversity in relation to occupation. Presents note writing and goal development. Credits: 3, Hours:
(3/0/0/0), Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
OTA-150 Occupational Therapy Assistant Medical Terminology (1.5)
Introduces medical terminology, including prefixes, suffixes, root words, and combined forms.
Presents medical terminology specific to the practice of the OTA. Credits: 1.5, Hours: (1.5/0/0/0),
Coreq: OTA-100, OTA-207; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
OTA-200 Community Health and Special Populations (4)
Provides knowledge and instruction for the intervention, prevention, and maintenance that create
optimal occupational performance in individuals and populations. Clinical observation experience
is included. Credits: 4, Hours: (3/2/0/0), Prereq: OTA-851; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
OTA-205 Occupational Therapy Assistant Management (2)
Includes the basic principles of management for the OTA. Topics include levels of authority and
responsibility, supervisory process, performance appraisals, and policies and procedures.
Discusses state and professional association regulations and legal/ethical issues. Explores
reimbursement systems and their impacts on health care, as well as public policy and
professional advocacy. Covers resume writing, interviewing and employability skills. Credits: 2,
Hours: (2/0/0/0), Prereq: OTA-850, OTA-851; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
OTA-207 OT Methods I (3)
Introduces methods and techniques used in OT. Provides knowledge and skill in the use of
activity analysis, task analysis, occupational performance and application of the OT framework.
Credits: 3, Hours: (2/2/0/0), Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
OTA-208 Occupational Development (2.5)
Presents normal physical and psychosocial development processes which affect an individual
throughout his/her lifespan. Emphasizes integration of physical, psychosocial, cognitive, social
and cultural aspects of occupational development. Credits: 2.5, Hours: (2.5/0/0/0), Coreq: OTA100, OTA-207, PSY-111; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
OTA-211 Pathophysiology for the OTA (4)
Presents clinical disorders and diseases commonly treated in the field of occupational therapy.
Covers pathology, etiology, diagnosis, signs, symptoms and prognosis. Credits: 4, Hours:
(4/0/0/0), Prereq: OTA-100, OTA-207 and either BIO-161 or BIO-168/173 or BIO-177/180; Arts &
Sciences Elective Code: B
OTA-212 Functional Kinesiology (3)
Provides a basic understanding of normal body movement as related to skeletal, muscular and
neurological systems. Focuses on muscle origin, insertion and action, joint structure, anatomical
palpation, human gait, and movement analysis during functional activities and daily life skills.
Credits: 3, Hours: (2/2/0/0), Prereq: OTA-100, OTA-207 and either BIO-161 or BIO-168/173 or
BIO-177/180; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
OTA 2014-15
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OTA-306 OT Methods II (3)
Presents evaluations and treatment methods for individuals used in occupational therapy.
Emphasizes the instruction and adaptation of daily living skills, feeding and eating, functional
mobility, adaptive equipment, compensatory techniques and documentation of the intervention
process. Credits: 3, Hours: (2/2/0/0), Prereq: OTA-207; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
OTA-308 Physical Dysfunction I (4)
Presents theory and evaluation for physical and cognitive occupational dysfunction. Credits: 4,
Hours: (3/2/0/0), Prereq: OTA-100, OTA-211, OTA-212; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
OTA-309 Physical Dysfunction II (4)
Presents application of intervention approaches for individuals and groups with physical and
cognitive occupational dysfunction. Credits: 4, Hours: (3/2/0/0), Prereq: OTA-308; Arts & Sciences
Elective Code: B
OTA-405 Psychosocial Dysfunction (4)
Presents diagnosis, symptomology and etiology of psychosocial dysfunction. Discusses theory,
evaluation, and interventions for individuals and groups with psychosocial occupational
dysfunction. Provides knowledge of OT and OTA role delineation in psychiatric settings. Credits:
4, Hours: (4/0/0/0), Prereq: OTA-208; Coreq: OTA-211; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
OTA-406 OT Methods III (3)
Presents information on the evaluation and treatment methods for work, leisure, wheelchair
selection, seating and positioning, psychosocial, cognitive and perceptual activities. Presents the
fabrication of splints, low vision, assistive technology, physical agent modalities and use of
orthotics. Credits: 3, Hours: (2/2/0/0), Prereq: OTA-306; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
OTA-409 Professional Development (3)
Explores state and professional association regulations and requirements, licensure and
certification exam preparation, OT/OTA role delineation, and job search and references. Seminars
focus on best practices and professional preparation. Credits: 3, Hours: (3/0/0/0), Prereq: OTA850; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
OTA-410 Pediatric Interventions for the OTA (2)
Provides knowledge and skills for the assessment, intervention planning and treatment for the
unique needs of the pediatric population. Credits: 2, Hours: (2/0/0/0), Prereq: OTA-208, OTA-306;
Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
OTA-411 Geriatric Interventions for the OTA (1.5)
Provides knowledge and skills for assessment and intervention of the geriatric population. Credits:
1.5, Hours: (1.5/0/0/0), Prereq: OTA-208, OTA-306, OTA-309; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
OTA-850 Occupational Therapy Assistant Fieldwork I-A (1)
Provides opportunities to develop observational, interpersonal, and communication abilities.
Includes involvement with individuals and populations with psychological and sociological
occupational dysfunction. Credits: 1, Hours: (0.5/0/1.5/0), Prereq: OTA-100, OTA-207, OTA-208,
and either OTA-150 or HSC-115 or HSC-117; Coreq: OTA-309; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B;
Comments: Requires all first semester courses be completed
OTA-851 Occupational Therapy Assistant Fieldwork I-B (1)
Fieldwork and seminar experiences provide opportunities to develop observational, interpersonal
and communication abilities. Experience includes evaluation and intervention of physical and
OTA 2014-15
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cognitive occupational dysfunction. Credits: 1, Hours: (.5/0/1.5/0), Prereq: OTA-208, OTA-211,
OTA-212, OTA-306; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
OTA-852 Occupational Therapy Assistant Fieldwork II-A (6)
A supervised Level II fieldwork experience emphasizing physical dysfunction, psychosocial or
specialty practices in occupational therapy. Provides experience developing the responsibilities
expected of an entry-level occupational therapy assistant. Credits: 6, Hours: (0/0/18/0), Prereq:
OTA-851; Coreq: OTA-409; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
OTA-853 OTA Fieldwork I-C (2.5)
Fieldwork and seminar experiences provide opportunities to develop observational, interpersonal
and communication skills. Credits: 2.5, Hours: (1.5/0/3/0), Prereq: OTA-850; Arts & Sciences
Elective Code: B
OTA-854 Occupational Therapy Assistant Fieldwork II-B (6)
A supervised Level II fieldwork experience emphasizing physical dysfunction, dysfunction,
psychosocial or specialty practices in occupational therapy. Provides experience developing the
responsibilities expected of an entry-level occupational therapy assistant. Credits: 6, Hours:
(0/0/18/0), Prereq: OTA-852; Coreq: OTA-409; Arts & Sciences Elective Code: B
OTA 2014-15
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ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE DEGREE
HUMANITIES REQUIREMENT
Students may select from the following courses to meet the 3-semester credit hour requirement.
Courses in italics are also Associate of Arts core courses.
Courses with a (D) are approved Diversity courses.
ART
ART-101 Art Appreciation
ART-203 Art History I
ART-204 Art History II
ART-173 Ceramics
ART-133 Drawing
ART-143 Painting
ART-157 Printmaking
ART-163 Sculpture
ART-184 Photography
ART-186 Digital Photography
ART-301 Design Fundamentals
ART-420 Intro to Glass
COMMUNICATION
ENG-221 Creative Writing
DRAMA
DRA-101 Introduction to Theatre
DRA-130 Acting I
DRA-162 Technical Theatre
FOREIGN LANGUAGES
ASL-141 or ASL-171 American Sign Lanaguage I or II (D)
FLS-118 Spanish for Professionals: Hospitality
FLS-128 Conversational Spanish
FLC-141 or FLC-142 Elementary Chinese I or II
FLF-141 or FLF-142 Elementary French I or II (all 4 credits)
FLS-141 or FLS-142 Elementary Spanish I or II (D)
FLG-141 or FLG-142 Elementary German I or II (D)
HUMANITIES
HUM-116 Encounters in Humanities
CLS-180 American Pluralism
ANT-105 Introduction to Cultural Anthropology (D)
HUM-105 Working in America
CLS-190 Culture and Technology
CLS-192 Communication & Culture
DRA-116 Film Analysis
DRA-117 Film Topics
DRA-125 Introduction to Play Analysis
HUM-123 U.S. Film History
HUM-124 World Film History
HUM-142 Popular Culture
OTA 2014-15
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INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES
BUS-223 Perspectives in International Studies
GLS120 Education Experience Abroad
MKT-187 Perspectives in International Marketing
CLS-140 Understanding Cultures: The Mideast (D)
CLS-151 Understanding Cultures: Latin America (D)
CLS-159 Understanding Cultures: Indigenous Central America (D)
CLS-167 Understanding Cultures: Modern China (D)
CLS-165 Understanding Cultures: Modern Japan (D)
CLS-171 Understanding Cultures: Sub-Saharan Africa (D)
LITERATURE (note: most LIT courses have a pre-requisite of ENG-105 Composition I)
LIT-203 Forms of Literature: The Story Cycle
LIT-204 Forms of Literature: Nonfiction
LIT-205 Forms of Literature: Drama
LIT-206 Forms of Literature: Fiction
LIT-207 Forms of Literature: Poetry
LIT-208 Forms of Literature: New Media
LIT-209 Forms of Literature: Film Adaptation
LIT-222 Literature & Culture: American Dreams (D)
LIT-226 Literary Themes: Search for Identity
LIT-224 Literature and Culture: Women and Work (D)
LIT-225 Literary Themes: Beyond Bartelby
LIT-227 World Poetry
LIT-105 Children's Literature
LIT-158 Literature of the African Peoples (D)
LIT-945 Selected Topics
MUSIC
MUA-101- Applied Voice (lower level 1 or 2 credit*)
MUA-119- Class Piano- 1 credit*
MUA-147- Applied Instrument** (private music lessons for beginning students, 1 or 2 credits*)
MUA-300–MUA-319 Applied Music (private music lessons for advanced students, 1 or 2 credits*)
MUS-100 Music Appreciation
MUS-127 Great Composers
MUS-140 Concert Choir*
MUS-157 Vocal Jazz Ensemble*
MUS-145 Concert Band*
MUS-150 Chamber Ensemble - 1 credit/semester*
MUS-163 Instrumental Jazz Ensemble*
MUS-165 Jazz Combo - 1 credit/semester*
MUS-207 Intro to Film Music
MUS-208 American Popular Music & Jazz
MUS-209 Topics in Western Music History
*(A total of 3 credit hours are required)
PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGION
PHI-101 Introduction to Philosophy
PHI-111 Basic Reasoning
PHI-105 Introduction to Ethics
PHI-125 Native American Philosophies (D)
PHI-126 Chinese Philosophies (D)
PHI-130 Philosophy of Human Nature
PHI-135 Multicultural Ethics (D)
OTA 2014-15
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PHI-150 Social and Political Philosophy
PHI-160 Environmental Ethics
REL-101 Survey of World Religions
REL-120 Judaism, Christianity, and Islam (D)
REL-125 Introduction to Islam (D)
REL-130 Introduction to Religions of the East (D)
REL-140 Religions in the United States
REL-145 Introduction to Christianity
HISTORY
HIS-121 Ancient Mediterranean World
HIS-122 Europe in the Age of Monarchy
HIS-123 Europe in the Age of Revolution
HIS-124 Europe in the Age of Nationalism
HIS-135 Modern World Military History
HIS-151 U.S. History to 1877
HIS-152 U.S. History since 1877
HIS-221 Holocaust and Genocide in Memory and Literature (D)
HIS-254 American Indian History (D)
HIS-291 History of Science
**Instrument choices: Baritone, Bassoon, Cello, Clarinet, Drum Set, Flute, French Horn, Guitar,
Oboe, Organ, Piano, Saxophone, String Bass, Synthesizer, Trombone, Trumpet, Tuba, Viola,
Violin
OTA 2014-15
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ESTIMATED PROGRAM COSTS
Applied Science and Technology Program Cost Estimate
School Year 2014-15
Occupational Therapy Assistant
Entry: Fall
SEMESTER
Credit hours per semester
FALL
SPRING
SUMMER
FALL
SPRING
TOTAL
18
18
12
18
14
80
$2,610.00
$350.00
$2,610.00
$1,740.00
$2,610.00
$10.00
$2,030.00
$11,600.00
$360.00
$650.00
$30.00
$550.00
$30.00
$15.00
$350.00
$15.00
$50.00
$450.00
$30.00
$50.00
$150.00
$2,150.00
$105.00
$115.00
$30.00
$75.00
$175.00
$100.00
$380.00
$655.00
$655.00
College Fees:
Tuition
Health exams/X-ray HepB Vac.
Program Fees:
Textbooks
Class related supplies
Field Trips
Instruction related travel
National Cert. Exam/Licensure
Clinic background check
Student Association Membership
TOTALS:







$60.00
$60.00
$75.00
$3,775.00
$75.00
$3,235.00
$2,230.00
$3,400.00
$150.00
$2,935.00
$15,575.00
Health insurance is required for this program. It is estimated to cost approximately $800 per semester
Travel, parking and housing expenses for clinic courses will vary depending on the location of the clinical assignment
Tuition is based on Fall 2014 at
$145 /credit hour
Textbook prices are subject to change
Health exams are estimated costs
Tuition based on Fall 2014 for non-resident students is $175*/credit hour
Tuition based on Fall 2014 for international students is $290*/credit hour
OTA 2014-15
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Section IIIB
CLASSROOM/LAB/FIELDWORK
CONFIDENTIALITY
Students in Fieldwork experience will maintain strict confidentiality of patient information. This
includes oral, written and computerized information. This is an important attribute of
professionalism. A student violating this policy may be asked to leave the clinic site, jeopardizing
continuation in the program. Students in health care facilities may be asked to sign a
confidentiality statement.
In accordance with provisions of public law 93-380 as amended (P.L. 935668), the Family
Educational Rights and Privacy Act 1974, commonly known as the “Buckley Amendment”, all
faculty and staff have the responsibility to maintain confidentiality pertaining to student records.
1.
2.
No information will be released about student grades to a third party unless the student
has given written consent. “Third party” includes parents, family members, and potential
employers.
It is the policy of this program and the Allied Health Department not to release directory
information (phone numbers & addresses) without prior consent.
PROFESSIONALISM
Students are representatives of their programs and future professions, and as such, are expected
to be professional in the classroom and at the clinic sites. The conditions of patients should be
discussed only with the professional personnel directly connected with the care of the patient. A
discussion of personal information of patients in public places is a violation of the code of ethics.
Professional relations must be observed during Fieldwork students are not to leave their assigned
Fieldwork area without permission from their instructor. All accidents or errors that occur during
Fieldwork must be reported to the instructor. Students are NOT to sign or witness the signature of
patients at any time. Misconduct or negligence in complying with the rules and regulations of the
program will be considered unethical practice.
CLASSROOM/LABORATORY/CLINIC POLICIES
Children are not allowed in the classroom, lab or clinic sites at any time. Cellular phones and
audible pagers must be turned off during class time and are not allowed in the clinic settings.
Students may not operate laboratory equipment or participate in any activity that has a potential
for injury without an instructor present. Materials utilized in the classroom, lab or clinic may not be
removed and are to be returned to their proper location.
OTA 2014-15
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OTA TECHNICAL COURSE POLICIES
It is the mission of the Occupational Therapist Assistant Program and faculty to teach students the
basic academic and professional skills needed to work as an Occupational Therapy Assistant.
We have developed the following policies that are expected to be followed for all OTA courses.



Kirkwood is a tobacco and nicotine free environment.
Eating and drinking are not allowed in the laboratory or classrooms unless
permission is granted by the instructor.
Students are not allowed to bring children to classes.
SYLLABUS
On the first day of each class, each student will be given a course syllabus. The syllabus will
contain course competencies, course objectives, course activities, and evaluation methods. Each
syllabus has a topical outline. The course instructor will orally cover the syllabus information but
all students are responsible for reading all information in each course syllabus.
ABSENCES
Preparation for the job market involves reporting absences. You will be expected to call your
instructors prior to class if you will be absent. All instructors have voice mail on their office
phones. Leave separate messages for each instructor for each class that will be missed. A
message from another student is not acceptable
When a class is missed it is the student’s responsibility to get missed notes, assignments, and
handouts and to make arrangements with the instructor as necessary. Instructors are not
expected to remind students of this responsibility. Requests for handouts must be sent in an
email to the instructor with specific names of handouts or information requested. Pick up requests
will be made available at the reception desk in Linn Regional Center.
Late Material: Late hand-in material will not earn the points available for materials turned in on
time unless a valid excuse is given.
Any late materials (hand-ins or tests) must be made up within one week of due date unless other
arrangements have been made with the instructor. Materials late beyond one week will still be
required but will receive zero credit.
Quizzes: Pop quizzes will be given unannounced at any time. Individual instructors will
determine if these can be made up. Students late for quizzes will be deducted percentage of
points or will be denied taking the quiz. The instructor will determine this.
Tests: Missed tests will be sent to the Test Center providing the student reported their absence
prior to the course period in which the test was given. Tests must be made up unless other
arrangements are made with the instructor. A different version of the test may be given.
All performance tests in all program courses must be passed to continue the program.
All professionalism rubrics must be passed to continue in the program.
OTA 2014-15
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VERBAL / WRITTEN COMMUNICATION
The expectation for all written work includes proper grammar and spelling. If a dictionary is needed
for accurate completion, please bring one to class for personal use. Use of a dictionary during
testing will be at the instructor's discretion for each test.
The expectation for all verbal communication includes proper grammar. Profanity is not acceptable.
FACULTY OFFICE HOURS
Please respect faculty time. If you have a need, please make an appointment during faculty office
hours. If this is not possible, please email the faculty person stating your needs and when and
how to get in touch with you. Faculty will respond as their schedule permits. Office hours for OTA
faculty are listed in course syllabi and posted in the department.
FIELDWORK EXPERIENCES
Fieldwork experiences are an integral part of the Occupational Therapy Assistant Program.
These experiences provide opportunities to develop the entry-level skills needed to perform the
duties and responsibilities of an OTA.
GENERAL FIELDWORK POLICIES
All clinical assignments will be arranged at the discretion of the faculty, based on clinic site
availability and student learning experiences. Students should be prepared to assume travel
expenses and/or living expenses. Students must be prepared for daytime or evening clinical
assignments. Clinical assignments will not be arranged, or re-arranged, for students based on
student employment or other personal circumstances.
Clinical assignments may change due to clinic availability, or enrollment. Therefore, students who
feel they may have difficulty meeting clinic requirements due to personal situations or concerns
are urged to consider these factors carefully prior to making commitments in the form of entering
the program or registering for courses.
Students are not clinic employees and are NOT TO BE PAID during their clinical assignment.
The clinic assignment is an educational experience, not a job. All students are required to have a
completed physical on file with the campus nurse before registering for a course with fieldwork.
All students are required to have at least the minimum health insurance coverage required by
their assigned facility before attending Level II Fieldwork.
All students must maintain patient confidentiality. Discussion of patient conditions or information
must be limited to clinical personnel.
Professional relations must be maintained between the student and clinic personnel while on duty.
All accidents or errors occurring during assigned time must be reported to the clinic supervisor
and program faculty immediately.
OTA 2014-15
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Students must not leave their clinic during assigned hours without permission of clinic personnel
and the program coordinator.
Students must not sign or witness the signature of a patient at any time.
Clinic problems must be reported immediately to the program coordinator.
A name tag designating you as an Occupational Therapy Assistant student must be worn at all
times while on fieldwork.
All students must maintain a professional appearance. Students must follow dress codes of the
facility.
Students may not cancel or change fieldwork assignments on their own.
Each clinic has a designated person who is the student’s supervisor. Kirkwood instructors may
visit the clinic at intervals to confer with the student and the fieldwork supervisor.
Transportation to and from fieldwork assignments must be arranged by the student.
The fieldwork site has the right to terminate the student’s clinic rotation at their site. If a clinic
asks a student to leave because of failure to perform adequately, not following clinic rules,
jeopardizing patient care or earning a failing grade, the student must wait until the next fieldwork
session to repeat the clinic course. The student must have approval from the Occupational
Therapy Assistant coordinator before repeating a clinic.
LEVEL I FIELDWORK EXPERIENCES
The purpose of Level I Fieldwork is to provide seminar and fieldwork opportunities to develop
observational, interpersonal, and communication abilities. Experience includes involvement with
disabled and non-disabled individuals.
Students receive 24 hours of Fieldwork I experience in the Occupational Development course.
This experience is not occupational therapy specific. Six hours are spent at a local day care with
opportunities for students to observe normal development, practice use of developmental
screening assessments, and prepare and present a group activity to a group of children. Eight
hours are spent observing and participating in the daily routine of an adolescent. One day is
spent observing well-elderly in a natural setting. Occupational Therapy Assistant Level I
Fieldwork is a course with 48 hours of clinical contact during the third and fourth terms of the
curriculum. A minimum of 24 hours is spent in an occupational therapy setting. Each student
attends a site or sites with practice areas for physical disabilities. Additional occupational therapy
fieldwork experiences may include pediatrics, geriatrics, work hardening, hand therapy and
psychology. Other experiences may include those that are not occupational therapy specific but
offer learning experiences that relate to the curriculum. Seminar activities may include guest
lecturers, tours, case studies, verbal and written presentations, and miscellaneous assignments.
Students are assigned to Level I Fieldwork by the course instructor.
Level I Fieldwork experiences with Occupational Therapy facilities are located within 150 miles of
Kirkwood Community College. Level I Fieldwork experiences that are not Occupational Therapy
specific are located in the Cedar Rapids/Iowa City area.
OTA 2014-15
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LEVEL II FIELDWORK EXPERIENCES
The purpose of Level II Fieldwork experience is to provide a supervised experience emphasizing
physical dysfunction, psychosocial, or specialty practices in occupational therapy. It provides
experience developing the responsibilities expected of an entry-level occupational therapy
assistant. All previous OTA technical courses must be completed before a student can register
for Level II Fieldwork. Level II Fieldwork must be completed within 18 months of didactic course
work.
Students receive 16 weeks of Level II Fieldwork experience in occupational therapy settings.
Each individual experience is 8 weeks.
Every effort is made to match students with fieldwork sites that provide a variety of client types
and experiences. Careful consideration is given to student placement to ensure student success
and facility satisfaction. The fieldwork coordinator assigns the Level II experiences.
Facilities providing Level II Fieldwork sites are located throughout the state of Iowa and frequently
in neighboring states. THERE IS NO GUARANTEE THAT FIELDWORK ASSIGNMENTS WILL
BE IN THE CEDAR RAPIDS/ IOWA CITY AREA. Students must be prepared to temporarily
relocate to the assigned area.
Progression following a failed Fieldwork II experience
A student must pass Fieldwork IIA and B to graduate. If a student fails one or both sections of
Fieldwork II, the following steps must occur:
1. The student must meet with the academic fieldwork coordinator and program director
to outline needs.
2. The student will be required to enroll in and pass Physical Disabilities I and II in the
summer immediately following the failing semester of Fieldwork II.
3. The student will be required to take FW IB in the Fall and any other courses deemed
necessary by the faculty.
4. The student will be placed, depending on availability, in level II Fieldwork the Spring
semester one year following the initial fieldwork experience. The student will be
required to retake either FW IIA or FWIIA and B.
5. Should the student fail fieldwork a second time, the student will not be allowed to reenter the program.
There are NO exceptions to this plan.
PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
Students are encouraged to become members of the Iowa Occupational Therapy Association
(IOTA) and the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). Application forms are
provided in Foundations of OT course or can be obtained from program faculty.
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT CLUB
All students are encouraged to join the student club. Club activities are developed and operated
by student elected officers. The club promotes the profession of Occupational Therapy by
sending and sponsoring student representatives to state and professional meetings. The club
also sponsors social events.
OTA 2014-15
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CLINICAL COMPLIANCE
Students within Allied Health programs must complete compliance variables in order to participate
in clinical experiences. The compliance process is comprised of variables in three general areas.
These areas are Background Checks, Health Records and Immunizations and Additional
Compliance Certifications. All three areas of the Compliance process are now housed through
an online vendor called Certified Background. The website for Certified Background is
www.certifiedbackground.com.
Students set up, pay for, and use a certified background account to house all variables of the
compliance process. On your program website, you will find information on each general area of
the compliance process. Specific information and directions to complete the process are listed on
the Compliance website. It is the responsibility of you as the student to complete the processes by
the due dates listed. Below are steps on how to find these directions:




Go to www.kirkwood.edu/alliedhealth
Find your Program link on the Allied Health Homepage
Find the Current Students link on your Program Homepage
Find the Compliance Guide line on the Current Students homepage
You will want to familiarize yourself with the content on this website and use it as your first
resource when looking for answers to your clinical compliance questions. All information
regarding the Compliance process will be discussed during your Technical Program Orientation.
If you have any questions please make sure you work with your Program Director and Allied
Health Department personnel.
Complete up-to-date information on all requirements for clinic compliance is on your program
website at www.kirkwood.edu/alliedhealth. It is the student’s responsibility to read and follow and
meet all requirements and deadlines listed.
FELONY/CRIMINAL CHECKS
If a student has a felony conviction, it may prevent them from being eligible for licensure or
certification and it may adversely affect employment opportunities. Student with a felony
conviction are advised to contact the respective licensing/certification board immediately.
Many clinical agencies require background/criminal checks of all their employees and therefore
will require such checks on all students before respective clinical sites. All Respiratory Therapy
students will be required to complete a criminal background check prior to starting the program.
IF the student’s background check reveals incidents not acceptable to the clinical agency, it will
be necessary for the student to withdraw from the program.
The student will receive information about the criminal check process during the program
conference (prior to admission into the program), at registration, and program orientation. It will
be the student’s responsibility to complete the process. Please refer to the clinical compliance
section on the Respiratory Therapy Program website for further details.
OTA 2014-15
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BASIC LIFE SUPPORT (CPR) POLICY
1.
2.
All students involved in direct patient care will be required to show documentation of
completion of CPR for Health Care Provider training prior to any patient contact and
maintain a current card for the duration of their program. Each student will need to
provide the required documentation each semester. Students who fail to provide
documentation of current CPR training will not be permitted in clinical areas.
Medical exceptions to this requirement may be considered by the program.
INFECTION CONTROL/OSHA/EXPOSURE
All students must attend an annual OSHA training session on Standard Precautions in preventing
the spread of bloodborne pathogens and tuberculosis. The initial training is provided in the
Professionals in Health course. Students who do not complete this initial training must see their
program coordinator to schedule the training. Failure to maintain current OSHA training will result
in being dismissed from any course with this requirement.
Students may be participating in activities within courses that have potential for exposure to
infectious diseases including, but not limited to, Hepatitis B and HIV. All measures must be
exercised to minimize risk. Students who fail to comply, jeopardizing the safety of others or
themselves, may be asked to withdraw from the course.
In the event of a significant exposure; punctured by contaminated needles or instruments or
exposed to blood or body fluids (e.g., an occupational incident involving eye, mouth, other
mucous membrane, non-intact skin, or parenteral contact with blood or other potentially infectious
material, including saliva), the student must report the incident immediately to the instructor or
clinical supervisor and file an incident report with the college. Follow-up evaluation will be
required consistent with Federal regulations. A portion of the medical expenses may be covered
by Kirkwood. Students must be practicing standard precautions to collect insurance payment for
the fees involved.
ILLNESS/ACCIDENTS
Kirkwood Security, 319-389-1774, should be contacted immediately after an accident has
occurred or been reported so they can respond and create an accident report.
LATEX ALLERGIES: Students reporting a latex or powder allergy must see the Campus Health
Nurse. Campus Health is located in Iowa Hall. It is the student’s responsibility to follow
appropriate protocol for documentation and accommodations.
If a student in a High Risk on-campus program is injured:
1.
2.
3.
An Illness and injury report must be filled out and turned into campus health within 24
hrs.
He/she must be seen by his/her primary care physician or walk-in clinic of his/her
choice.
Bills for the student’s visit should be sent to Risk Management Specialist, 2nd Floor
Kirkwood Hall. We do not tell the student that the bill will be taken care of by
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Kirkwood. We only can say that a claim will be filed. The High Risk policy has a
$10 deductible which is the responsibility of the student.
If a student is injured off campus in a non-paid clinical /internship:
1.
2.
3.
4.
In the event of a significant exposure or injury during clinic experience, the student must
report the incident immediately to their clinic/practicum instructor and the clinical agency.
An Illness injury report must be filled out and turned into campus health within 24 hours.
This form is available at www.kirkwood.edu/campushealth.
He/she must been seen by his/her primary care physician or walk-in clinic of his/her
choice.
Kirkwood Community College will not pay medical bills unless they are found
legally liable to do so.
If a student or Visitor is injured on campus and is NOT in a High Risk on Campus Program:
1.
2.
3.
An Illness/Injury report must be filled out and turned in within 24 hours.
If further medical attention is needed, he/she must be seen by his/her primary care
physician or walk –in clinic of his/her choice.
Kirkwood Community College will not pay medical bills unless they are found
legally liable to do so.
BBP POST-EXPOSURE EVALUATION & FOLLOW-UP
Bloodborne pathogen exposure is defined as contact (skin, eye, mucous membrane or parenteral)
with:










Blood
Body tissues or organs
Semen
Vaginal secretions
Amniotic fluid
Cerebral spinal fluid
Pericardial fluid
Peritoneal fluid
Pleural fluid
Synovial fluid
or other body fluids containing visible blood through injuries from contaminated sharps, breaks in
the skin, skin conditions or mucous membranes.
OSHA requires documentation of the route of exposure, circumstances in which it occurred,
identification and documentation of the source individual (if feasible), testing of the source
individual’s blood for HBV and HIV infectivity if feasible and unknown upon exposure, notification
of results of the source HBV and HIV status to the exposed employee (within applicable state
laws / regulations), collection and testing of the exposed employees blood for HIV and HBV,
documentation of follow-up treatment including test results, prophylactic medications, counseling
and evaluation of reported illnesses.
At KCC, Campus Health is responsible for retaining all of the above documentation as part of the
employee’s medical file. Communication with the exposed employee about testing, vaccination
OTA 2014-15
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and medical conditions resulting from exposure should be discussed and instructions provided in
writing within 15 days of exposure.
Procedures Following an Exposure:
Low risk BBP exposure: When the potential for transmission of infectious agents is unlikely or
non-existent. This includes contact with urine, saliva, tears, sweat, sputum and stool which
contain no obvious blood, puncture or laceration from sharps not contaminated with blood or body
fluid, exposure of blood to intact skin, or puncture from a hollow point needle used to administer
fluids or medications into an IV line if no blood is visible in the IV tubing.
Treatment: For these exposures, wash the affected area immediately. Your intact skin is a
protective barrier and follow up care is not necessary. Complete the Kirkwood Community College
Illness and Injury Report form and notify Campus Health of your low risk exposure.
High risk BBP exposure: When the incident poses a significant potential for the transmission of
infectious agents. This includes a break in the skin from any kind of a sharp (needle, lancet, glass,
surgical instrument) that is contaminated or likely contaminated with blood or body fluid / tissue,
contact with blood or body fluid into an open skin lesion, splashes of blood or bloody material into
or very near the eyes, nose, or mouth, CPR with direct mouth to blood contact, and any other
situation where there is a high probability of contamination.
Treatment:





Wash the affected area immediately and thoroughly with soap and water.
Report the incident to a clinical instructor or supervisor after cleaning the area.
For students, the clinical instructor will notify the clinical area supervisor of the incident.
The clinical instructor or supervisor will start the following paperwork and send this with the
student / staff to the emergency room:
 A copy of the Kirkwood Community College Illness and Injury Report form.
 Body Fluid Exposure - Risk Management Form
 Name, address and phone of the source person (person who's blood or body fluid you
came in contact with, as they will be tested as well)
Student and / or source testing should be billed to the student with copies sent to:
Lara Buckles, Risk Management Specialist
Kirkwood Community College
Kirkwood Hall, 2nd Floor
6301 Kirkwood Blvd SW
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404

The exposed student must submit the above information to Campus Health at 132 Iowa
Hall via fax 319-398-7114 or e-mail fhealth@kirkwood.edu within 24 hours of the exposure.
Failure to submit these forms to Campus Health may cause the student to be billed
individually for the costs of the emergency room visit and lab fees. If additional follow-up
care and lab testing is necessary, the student should coordinate follow-up visits with a
health care provider of their choice. For students in qualified high risk programs, Kirkwood
carries a limited medical coverage policy with limits of $1,000 per student with a $10
deductible that is the student’s responsibility. The paperwork must be submitted and
accepted before Kirkwood becomes responsible for any payment of bills. We do not
guarantee the bills will be taken care of.
OTA 2014-15
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
OSHA requires all evaluations, follow-up, prophylactic treatment and testing be made
available at no cost to the employee.
HEALTH INSURANCE
Some clinics require students to provide proof of medical insurance coverage prior to enrollment
in specific courses. Forms verifying coverage may be obtained from the program director or in the
Allied Health Department Office. The information provided will be sent to clinical agencies
requiring proof of health insurance.
WEATHER
The college may cancel or postpone classes due to weather conditions. This will be announced
on local Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and Waterloo radio and TV stations. (Listen for Kirkwood
Community College NOT College Community Schools) Classes will not normally be made-up.
Any test or activities scheduled that day will be held on the next regular class day. If the college
delays the start time, classes will begin at that time, [even if it is in the middle of the normal class
time]. Faculty will provide instructions in the course syllabi for clinic courses and unusual
circumstances.
If students decide they cannot come to class or due to weather conditions in their area, the
appropriate faculty must be notified. Students are expected to make appropriate judgments
based on their situation. Each student situation will be evaluated individually by faculty.
Kirkwood campus closing due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances does NOT affect the
students’ ability to attend clinic and shall NOT be reason to miss clinic. Students will be
responsible for attending their clinic assignment. If you are commuting and weather
forecasts indicate a possible problem, please try to plan ahead and make arrangements to stay
within a minimal distance to the facility to minimize travel and missed clinic days.
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Section IIIC
REGISTRATION / GRADES
REGISTRATION
The sequence of courses in the program has been carefully planned to ensure the most effective
and efficient presentation of curriculum. Program advisors will assist students in following the
curriculum and registering for the proper course sections. Students, who plan to transfer to a 4year college, should meet with their advisor regarding transfer courses where appropriate.
Students will be notified of preregistration times. Students are responsible for successful
completion of prerequisite courses.
1. Registration is on-line via EagleNet.
2. The student must have no registration holds. Holds may be due to parking fines, library
fines, incomplete health physical or immunizations or outstanding financial obligations to
the college.
3. Students on academic probation or with an academic warning must meet with a counselor
in Student Development (115 Iowa Hall) before their registration can be processed.
CHANGE OF REGISTRATION
If it becomes necessary to drop or add a course after registration, the student must see their
advisor, complete a change of registration form and personally take it to the Enrollment Services
office (216 Kirkwood Hall). If circumstances prevent a student from continued attendance in a
course, a change of registration form must be completed. If a student does not continue to attend
a course, but fails to withdraw from the course, the instructor will have no choice but to assign a
failing grade. Each semester has a last day to drop classes indicated on the academic calendar.
The last day to drop is 75% through a course. See the academic calendar or course syllabus for
specific information. Refer to the student handbook for information regarding tuition
reimbursement. Students who do not complete the program in the recommended timeframe will
be asked to retake or review pre-clinical course in preparation for clinic.
SCHOLARSHIPS AND LOANS
For information on general scholarships, check with Kirkwood's Financial Aid Office, 2nd Floor
Kirkwood Hall or visit Kirkwood’s website at www.kirkwood.edu.
ALLIED HEALTH/NURSING ST. LUKE'S SCHOLARSHIP.
For students enrolled in program technical courses who have an average program GPA of 2.5 or
above. Students will receive a $500 award applied to the summer term. Applications open in
January with a March 15th deadline. Application form available at the Financial Aid Office (OneStop), 2nd Floor Kirkwood Hall.
ST. LUKE'S HEALTH CARE FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP.
For non-traditional students currently enrolled in the program who have an average GPA of 2.5 or
above. Application must provide evidence of a permanent address in an area within approximately
a 50 mile radius of St. Luke's Hospital in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Awards provide tuition assistance
OTA 2014-15
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for the following Fall and Spring semesters. Applications open in early spring with a mid-March
deadline. Application form available at the Allied Health office, 2164 Linn Hall.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR COLLEGE ACTIVITIES
Students are encouraged to inform instructors well in advance of absences for extra-curricular
college activities.
It is the student’s responsibility to make up any missed curriculum, whether assignments or
projects. It is also the student’s responsibility to gather lecture notes from other students – outside
of class time.
GRADES
Kirkwood uses a 4.0 grading system. Kirkwood grades and their meanings are given below:
A
AB+
B
BC+
C
CD+
D
DF
4.0
3.67
3.33
3.00
2.67
2.33
2.00
1.67
1.33
1.00
0.67
0
P
Q
I
E
T
N
W
X
O
Passing-credit
No credit
Incomplete
Excused Without Credit
Credit by Examination
Audit
Withdrew from Course
Course repeated
Original grade removed
The grades A, B, C, D, F, and FW are included in the computation of grade point average [see
college handbook for computing grade point average]
SATISFACTORY PROGRESS
Each class must be completed successfully to meet the prerequisite requirements of the OTA
Program. A minimum grade of “C” will be required in the following Occupational Therapy Assistant
technical courses:
OTA-100
OTA-150
OTA-200
OTA-205
OTA-207
OTA-208
OTA-211
OTA-212
OTA-306
OTA-308
OTA-309
OTA 2014-15
Foundations of OT
OTA Medical Terminology
Comm. Health & Special Pops
OTA Management
OT Methods I
Occupational Development
Pathophysiology for the OTA
Functional Kinesiology
OT Methods II
Physical Dysfunction I
Physical Dysfunction II
OTA-405
OTA-406
OTA-409
OTA-410
OTA-411
OTA-850
OTA-851
OTA-852
OTA-853
OTA-854
35
Psychosocial Dysfunction
OT Methods III
OTA Professional Development
PED Interventions for the OTA
GER Interventions for the OTA
OTA Fieldwork I-A
OTA Fieldwork I-B
OTA Fieldwork II-A
OTA Fieldwork I-C
OTA Fieldwork II-B
Each performance exam in every course must be passed to continue in the program. Each
professionalism rubric must be passed in order to continue in the program. Each fieldwork rotation
must be completed with a Pass. If a student does not pass a fieldwork assignment, they will not be
allowed to progress in the program.
PHI THETA KAPPA HONOR SOCIETY
What is Phi Theta Kappa?
Phi Theta Kappa is an international honor society for students in two-year colleges. Kirkwood
Community College has an active chapter, named Alpha Eta Rho, headquartered in the Arts and
Humanities Department, 337 Cedar Hall.
What are the benefits?







Members are eligible for more than $37 million in scholarships at four-year institutions
nationwide when they transfer from Kirkwood. A complete list of scholarships can be found
on the PTK web site: www.ptk.org.
Members wear a gold honors stole and tassel at Commencement.
Members receive a gold PTK key lapel pin, membership certificate, and ID card.
Members are automatically recommended for the National Dean’s List.
Members may compete for other honors.
Phi Theta Kappa membership is noted on the Kirkwood transcript and the Phi Theta
Kappa seal appears on members’ Kirkwood diploma.
Best of all, members may join with other Alpha Eta Rho members in the activities of a
thriving local chapter, and may qualify to attend regional or national meetings.
What are the eligibility requirements?




You must be enrolled in a regionally accredited institution offering an associate degree
program
You must have completed at least 12 transferable credit hours of coursework that may be
applied to an associate degree (part-time students may be eligible)
You must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 to be a member and maintain a GPA of 3.3
You must adhere to the moral standards of the society
Both part-time and full-time students who have met all of the academic requirements are invited to
become members.
International students are welcome to become members. They must achieve the required GPA,
have accumulated the number of hours required by the college to designate full-time status, and
possess all rights of citizenship in their native land.
How much does membership cost?
As of fall semester 2013, membership in the local, regional, and national association will total
$70.00. A typical transfer scholarship to a Phi Theta Kappa member from a four-year college or
university will be from $500 - $5000—a good return on a $70 investment!
OTA 2014-15
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Is this only for arts and sciences students?
Definitely not. Members include students from all programs, all Kirkwood locations, daytime and
evening, full-time and part-time students. A non-active (registered) membership, also $70, is
available for students who cannot participate in chapter meetings or activities.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
CONTACT THE ARTS & HUMANITIES DEPARTMENT, 319-398-4913
WITHDRAWAL FROM THE PROGRAM
A student who finds it necessary to withdraw from the program may do so either through the
program director or Student Development (115 Iowa Hall). Please inform the program director of
your intent.
The program reserves the right to request the withdrawal of any student whose health, work, or
conduct is determined to be detrimental to the health and safety of themselves, other students or
patients.
READMISSION TO THE PROGRAM
If readmission is sought after exiting the program, the student will be required to fulfill the current
curriculum and program requirements for graduation. Readmission is contingent upon available
space in the class and completion of admission requirements. Students re-admitted will be
required to comply with all curriculum changes, professionalism requirements and compliance
documentation in place for the semester of re-admission.
See Kirkwood Student Handbook for other withdrawal and readmission policies, such as
readmission following academic suspension.
PART-TIME STATUS
Students who are unable to complete the program in the normal sequence of courses must:




Meet with the program director and plan the sequence of courses.
Reapply for the next program start if they have not completed the first semester courses.
These students do not have priority over new applicants
If numerous students request to re-enter the program, the date of the application will be
used to select students accepted to register.
Registration in classes on a part-time basis is not guaranteed. Registration is on a space
available basis. Priority is given to students enrolled full-time with the intention of
completing the program requirements within the curriculum plan.
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COURSE REPEAT POLICY
A student is allowed to repeat a didactic course a maximum of two times. A student unable to
pass a course on the third attempt will be dismissed from the program. See fieldwork section for
fieldwork repeat policy on page 29.
ACADEMIC HONESTY
Academic honesty and integrity are basic to all academic activities so that grades and degrees
have validity. Academic dishonesty violates the integrity of the learning process and violates
personal trust. Plagiarism is the "act of using another person's ideas or expressions in your writing
or other presentations without acknowledging the source." Examples include:




Deliberate copying - submitting someone else's report/writing as your own, copying
someone else's paper, homework, or any other activity, submitting a paper or presentation
in more than one class without instructor permission.
Inaccurate documentation
Cheating: looking at another individual's paper, or notes during an examination.
Academic dishonesty: giving someone answers during an exam, doing someone else's
work for them, fabrication resources.
The program endeavors to reinforce the value of independent honest work on the part of their
students. Students are expected to conduct themselves with scholarly integrity. Cheating and
plagiarism are serious acts of misconduct and shall be subject to disciplinary action, including
expulsion from the college. Please refer to the College Student Policies for procedures and
penalties.
COMMUNICATIONS
Open, honest communication between students and faculty is extremely important. If students
encounter difficulty with the content and/or methods used in a particular course, it is the student’s
responsibility to make an appointment with the instructor during regular office hours. If a conflict
arises between the student and instructor and they are unable to resolve an issue, the student
should request a meeting with the program director.
Students are encouraged to carefully read their course syllabi for specific requirements and
policies applicable to specific courses.
GRIEVANCE & ACADEMIC APPEAL POLICY
For concerns or appeals, students should first meet with the course instructor and then, if
necessary, the program director, then department dean. These concerns should be addressed as
soon as possible. Grade appeals must be presented within 60 days from the date of which the
grade was assigned. Refer to the Kirkwood Student Policy at www.kirkwood.edu/students.
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Section IV
PROGRAM COMPLETION
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
To successfully graduate from the Occupational Therapist Assistant Program students must meet
the following criteria:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Maintain a 2.0 cumulative grade point average and at least a “C“ in all ST technical
course and “C-“ in Anatomy and Physiology.
Successfully complete all required course in the ST curriculum.
Fill out an “Application to Graduate” at least 12 weeks prior to the designated graduation
date.
Take the CST National Certification Exam
No “D” developmental level courses are accepted as course substitutions in this program. These
courses have a "D" as an Elective Code in the course description.
All students must complete an “Application to Graduate” by the following application deadlines:
Graduation
Spring
Summer
Fall
Deadline
February 1
February 1
September 1
Courses in the curriculum are sequential. For this reason, students who do not pass a
prerequisite course must successfully complete that course before continuing in the curriculum.
Refer to the course descriptions in the college catalog for prerequisites.
Students may not graduate:
1.
2.
With an incomplete, “F” or no pass grade in any program course.
If they have any registration holds such as outstanding fines.
Students are awarded an Associate of Applied Science degree.
STUDENT/GRADUATE INPUT
Students will be asked for input and suggestions in most courses. Given the diverse learning
styles and backgrounds of a class, it is always challenging for faculty to find methods to satisfy the
learning needs of each student. Students are encouraged to be open and honest in providing
feedback to faculty. Students are entitled to anonymity when providing feedback. Any
intimidation or retribution resulting from feedback should be reported to the Dean of the Allied
Health Department.
Near the end of the program, students will be asked to complete a survey assessing program
strengths and areas for improvement. A follow up survey will be sent to all graduates to obtain
feedback related to the program curriculum. Graduate feedback is viewed as an extremely
OTA 2014-15
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valuable resource for curriculum review and revision. Additional informal suggestions are
encouraged.
Graduates are asked to inform the program director of all professional
accomplishments including awards, promotions and publications.
CERTIFICATION
Graduates of the program are eligible to apply to sit for the national certification examination for
the occupational therapy assistant administered by the National Board for Certification in
Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). After successful completion of this exam, the individual will be a
Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA™).
The certification exam is offered on demand in a computerized format. You will be given
instructions regarding the application and testing process as the program progresses. You may
access the www.nbcot.org website for more information.
When you apply for the certification examination with the NBCOT, you will be asked to answer
questions related to the topic of felonies. For further information on these limitations, you can
contact NBCOT at:
National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy
800 S. Frederick Avenue, Suite 200
Gaithersburg, Maryland 20877-4150
Phone: (301) 990-7979
The NBCOT Disciplinary Action Committee will consider each case on an individual basis and
decide if the circumstances of an individual’s crime may be such to indicate an inability to safely,
ethically, and proficiently engage in the practice of occupational therapy.
See the program website for certification exam pass rates.
LICENSURE
Upon passing the certification examination administered by the NBCOT, the graduate is qualified
to:
1.
Become a COTA™
2.
Apply for a license to practice as a COTA™ in Iowa
NOTE: A COTA™ must apply for licensure in each state in which they want to practice. State
licensure is usually based on the results of the National Certification Exam.
ARTICULATION OPPORTUNITIES
ST AMBROSE UNIVERSITY Occupational Therapy Program – This program will evaluate each
student on a case by case basis to determine which if any courses will articulate into their
program.
APPLIED BUSINESS - Bachelor's degree
Mount Mercy College will accept 63 credit hours toward a bachelor of applied science degree.
OTA 2014-15
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HEALTH SERVICES ADMINISTRATION - Bachelor's degree
Mount Mercy College will accept 63 credit hours toward a bachelor of Applied Science degree.
BACHELOR OF ARTS IN SPECIAL STUDIES – St. Ambrose University, Davenport, Iowa for
registered nurses and allied health graduates.
TRANSFERRING OTA TECHNICAL COURSES
The OTA technical courses are not transferable to Occupational Therapy programs. Completion
of Kirkwood's OTA program is not equivalent with the first 2 years of a Master’s Degree program
in Occupational Therapy. Students wishing to continue their education must contact individual
universities and request specific information regarding admission and course requirements.
OTA 2014-15
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Section V
GENERAL INFORMATION
COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION
The program maintains an advisory committee of representatives from the professional
community to advise the continuous development of the program in such areas as curriculum,
changing career trends, employment changes, etc., for the purpose of incorporating current trends
and assuring a high quality program.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Kirkwood Community College
6301 Kirkwood Blvd. SW
Cedar Rapids, IA 52406
www.kirkwood.edu/alliedhealth
Allied Health Department
2164 Linn Hall
319-398-5566
FAX: 319-398-1293
1-800-363-2220
OTA Program
Linn County Regional Center
1770 Boyson Road
Hiawatha, Iowa 52233
Program Administrator
Nichelle L. Cline, PhD, MPA, OTR, OT/L,
Program Director and Dean of Allied Health
319-398-5566
Program Faculty
Laura Green, MOT, OTR/L,
Program Coordinator and Hiawatha Site Contact
319-398-4941
Email; Laura.Green@kirkwood.edu
Kim Prevo, OTR/L,
Academic Fieldwork Coordinator
319-398-7124
Email: kim.prevo@kirkwood.edu
Tiffany Reaves, COTA/L
Email: Tiffany.Reaves@kirkwood.edu
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