Occupational Science (OS)

Foundations of occupational science including the human drive to remain occupied, creation of identity through meaningful activity and enhancing health through occupation will be explored. Understanding engagement in daily occupations from the lens of occupational science dovetailed with practice will be the focus of the course.

Habits, routines, roles, and rituals are occupational constructs for occupational science and occupational therapy practice. These will be examined as catalysts or deterrents in daily living for people, communities, and society. Occupational constructs will be explored across time, place, and cultures. Exploration and practical application of how occupational constructs inform transformation of habits, routines, roles, and rituals as related to identity, health, and well-being across the lifespan will be addressed.

Exploration of ways individuals and groups create, manage, and shift identities through their choice of and participation in occupations within society. This course specifically considers identity through occupations by examining through the lens of equity, inclusion, and discourse, while considering the intersection of notions and constructs of cultural values and beliefs in constructing the self.

This course delves into the complex nature of occupation and how it contributes to the experience of being human. Drawing on a wide range of material, from scientific research to literary analysis, students will study three major themes: factors that impact occupation, understanding the influence of creativity and flow on behavior and occupations, and the function of occupations on well-being. This course enables self-discovery as well as expanding knowledge about the power and importance of creativity on occupations.

The capstone Occupational Science course will offer the student time to enhance skills in advanced scholarship, leadership, advocacy, program and policy development, education, or theory development in occupational science and occupational therapy practice. Topic and design will be driven by student with guidance from capstone advisor.