According the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), occupational therapy helps people live life to its fullest. It does this by helping people of all ages who have experienced an illness, injury or some form of debilitation relearn the skills of daily living. By focusing on the physical, psychological and social needs of its patients, OT helps people function at the highest possible level, concentrating on what?s important to them to rebuild their health, independence and self-esteem. Occupational therapists are specially trained and credentialed in the field and rely on evidence-based best practices and science-driven data to constantly improve patient outcomes. In an era where consumers want to increasingly be empowered and maximize life?s potential, more and more people are recognizing the value of occupational therapy and as a result the field is expected to grow significantly over the coming years.

?A program of studies in occupational therapy includes a foundation in the liberal arts; biological, behavioral, and health sciences; and discipline-specific studies in occupational science and occupational therapy.??This process often involves adapting tasks or an environment to optimize a person's ability to fulfill his/her social roles and engage in those activities that are meaningful and support health and wellbeing.

The Occupational Therapy BS/MS Professional Program at UNH is an accredited program that prepares students for entry-level occupational therapy practice. Students gain the knowledge and skills to work with people of all ages to enable their participation within their natural environments and daily life activities, including education, work, self-care, home management, and leisure.