MSU to Host Occupational Therapy Open House

The Murray State University Paducah Regional Campus will host an open house event for its occupational therapy (OT) program on June 18 from 2–4 p.m.

Occupational therapy is one of the fastest-growing professions in the country; according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of occupational therapists is projected to grow 24 percent from 2016-2026, faster than any other career.

Occupational therapy is an important part of treatment for people with illnesses and disabilities such as Alzheimer's disease, cerebral palsy, autism or the loss of a limb.

The day's agenda includes words from Murray State President Dr. Bob Jackson, Provost Dr. Mark Arant and other Murray State administrators, honorary mentions to some key figures in the development of the University's OT program and facility tours.

Murray State's two-year, 72 credit hour Master of Science in occupational therapy program prepares students to provide evidence-based, patient-centered care as an occupational therapist. With an emphasis on interprofessional education, the program includes extensive clinical experiences to connect learning with practice.

"We're excited to see our OT students applying their classroom knowledge while working within our community partnerships," said Dr. Sherri Powers, OT program director. "When we see the students' success and satisfaction after working on huge projects relating to aspects of OT, we are very proud of them."

Powers added that students enrolled in the University's exercise science program may be eligible for an accelerated route of entry, which can eliminate one entire year of undergraduate study. The accelerated route can decrease the amount of time and tuition required to obtain a bachelor's degree, and students may graduate with their undergraduate and graduate degree within five years.

"We're proud that Murray State University's Paducah Regional Campus is able to fill the regional need for occupational therapists," said Dan Lavit, executive director of the University's Center for Adult and Regional Education. "Our graduates are able to provide quality assistance to our local communities and beyond."

For more information on Murray State's nationally-accredited occupational therapy program, please visit murraystate.edu/OT.