A Brief Glimpse
Occupations are the essence of productive living. Occupational therapists focus on the occupations used by people to live full, independent, quality lives. Occupations or activities of daily living include work or education, self-care, play/leisure and the effect that rest has on these activities. The goal of this profession is to maximize a person's ability to perform culturally appropriate daily occupations, which is an important value in today's health care system. Occupational therapists work with persons to promote an individualized, self-determined balance of occupations throughout the lifespan.

Occupational performance is developed and enhanced by treating the "whole person" and attending to physical, psychological, emotional, social and cultural issues, as influenced by the environment.

Occupational therapy direct and indirect service delivery contexts are exceedingly diverse. They include but are not limited to acute care, industrial rehabilitation, physical rehabilitation, mental health, long-term care, case management, consultation, school systems, early intervention, community service, education, disease prevention and health promotion. Important related concepts such as quality of life, productive function, independent living, full access, social-political integration, multiculturalism, and balanced lifestyles are central to occupational therapy practice. As a result, graduates of this program must be able to evaluate emerging information, anticipate new practice opportunities, develop new knowledge, participate in research, guide professional decisions, cooperate effectively with a variety of groups, and serve as professional leaders and community advocates. These competencies are the essence of occupational therapy service delivery and underscore the principles that guide this program.

For further information on the Occupational Therapy Program at Duquesne University, questions or to make an appointment for a campus visit, please fill out the form below: