A Bachelor of Health Sciences is an extensive degree that offers students a variety of educational pathways, including Nutrition, Exercise and Fitness, and Community Health Education. One such pathway is the Pre-Occupational Therapy (pre-OT) concentration.
There are numerous reasons to choose pre-occupational therapy concentration, but to kick things off, it can prepare you for a career in occupational therapy by gaining the skills and knowledge necessary to help others live more independent and fulfilling lives.
What is a pre-OT concentration program?
A pre-OT concentration program provides a strong foundation in health sciences, preparing graduates for advanced studies in occupational therapy and other similar health sciences. Through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experiences to practice clinical skills, you’ll also develop critical soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, and clinical reasoning.
These programs also allow you to apply theoretical knowledge from coursework to real-world situations—reinforcing your understanding of patient care and rehabilitation techniques.
The pre-OT concentration not only emphasizes medical knowledge but also offers a deep dive into understanding the human experience, ensuring that you can empathize with patients and deliver effective treatment plans.
Pre-OT concentration curriculum
The coursework within a pre-OT concentration is designed to align with prerequisites of occupational therapy programs so students are well-prepared for graduate studies.
Additionally, you’ll have access to valuable resources such as faculty mentorship and career counseling. Some schools may also offer research opportunities or options to attend OT-related conferences—these help you stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends and innovations.
Typical courses in a Pre-OT program include:
- Anatomy: Focuses on the structure of the human body, exploring the bones, muscles, organs, and systems that make up the body
- Clinical Kinesiology: Examines the mechanics of human movement, including how muscles, joints, and bones work together
- Physiology: Covers the functions of the body’s systems, such as the circulatory, respiratory, and nervous systems. Students study how these systems interact to maintain homeostasis and overall health.
- Psychology: Students explore the principles of human behavior and mental processes, focusing on how psychological factors influence physical health, injury recovery, and patient care in rehabilitation settings
These classes allow you to fulfill the necessary prerequisites for pre-occupational therapy concentration graduate programs. They position you for a seamless transition into advanced occupational therapy education. As you progress through the course material in these classes, you’ll develop an understanding of the ethical, social, and cultural considerations necessary for practicing in diverse settings.
Build the foundation for a rewarding career!
4 Reasons to choose a pre-OT Health Sciences concentration
There is no shortage of reasons to choose pre-occupational therapy. Selecting a pre-OT concentration as part of a Bachelor of Health Sciences degree provides numerous benefits, including comprehensive preparation for further education in a Master’s in Occupational Therapy program, mentioned previously.
Alongside that obvious advantage, we’re exploring the following four key bonus benefits of choosing this concentration:
1. Variety of healthcare settings
A pre-OT concentration offers the flexibility to work in diverse healthcare settings. Occupational therapists and other professionals in this field must be adaptable and able to work under varying conditions while tailoring care to each patient’s unique needs. This fluidity provides professionals with career flexibility and the ability to work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, correctional facilities, long-term care, and private practices, to name a few.
Occupational therapists are also integral members of interdisciplinary teams, collaborating with doctors, nurses, physical therapists, and social workers to develop holistic care plans.
2. Development of skills
Students in a pre-OT program acquire essential skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, and the ability to blend scientific knowledge with empathy to provide patient-centered care. These skills are crucial for helping individuals who need rehabilitative support due to physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges.
Moreover, you’ll learn things like how to assess, plan, and monitor patient progress, skills that are vital for effective therapeutic interventions. A pre-OT health sciences concentration is an excellent choice for students who are passionate about making a meaningful impact on others’ lives.
3. Post-graduate opportunities
Pursuing a pre-OT concentration provides a window of opportunity for stable and fulfilling career paths. One of the most prominent opportunities is becoming an occupational therapist, a role that involves assisting individuals of all ages in overcoming daily challenges due to injury, disability, or developmental disorders.
Plus, the median annual wage for occupational therapists currently sits at $96,370, highlighting the financial stability of this career path. Graduates can also explore other roles in research, administration, or policy advocacy, ensuring flexibility in career advancement.
4. Pre-professional clinical internship
Many universities offer unique opportunities, such as pre-professional clinical internships, which immerse students in real clinical settings under the supervision of licensed occupational therapists. Students gain hands-on experience, allowing them to acclimate to the medical field and develop their practical skills, as well as determine whether or not this type of work will be right for you. These internships provide invaluable exposure to patient care and clinical operations, enhancing your readiness for graduate programs and future careers.
Other career opportunities for pre-OT concentration students
The career outcomes of a pre-OT Health Sciences concentration are plentiful. Beyond becoming an occupational therapist, students who complete a pre-occupational therapy concentration open doors to various career opportunities within the healthcare field. Some of these roles include:
- Clinical Researcher: Conducts studies to advance medical and therapeutic practices
- Mental Health Advocate: Works to support individuals with mental health conditions, promoting well-being and access to care
- Rehabilitation Aide: Assists therapists in providing rehabilitative care to patients recovering from injury or illness
These career paths allow you to focus on specific patient needs and areas of healthcare you are most passionate about. Plus, you can pivot to whichever population or work interests you the most.
The impact of a pre-OT concentration
University of Bridgeport’s pre-OT concentration degree program equips graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in further study and occupational therapy careers. With a strong educational foundation, hands-on experience, and diverse career opportunities, students who choose this path are well-prepared to make a difference in the lives of others.
Through a combination of academic rigor and field-based learning, there are many reasons to choose a pre-OT program. Students can apply to these programs and graduate with a comprehensive skill set that positions them for success in a rapidly evolving healthcare environment.