Kent State University at East Liverpool’s Occupational Therapy Assistant program recently completed its reaccreditation process by receiving the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE)’s highest rating, accreditation for 10 years.

“Our OTA program is one of the best in the tri-state area,” said Dean Jeff Nolte. “Knowing the strength of our program faculty and the quality of our students, we were not surprised to receive the ACOTE accreditation.   Our instructors have established an excellent program built on their knowledge in the field and high quality patient care.”

Late last summer, two surveyors from ACOTE evaluated the program to determine how well it met the 2006 education standards established by the American Occupational Therapy Association. The accreditation was approved in December.

Program policies, procedures and course materials were evaluated. Interviews were conducted with Program Director Harriet Bynum,  Fieldwork Coordinator Nina Sullivan and faculty to gain an understanding of the program’s philosophy and curriculum design.  Those who employed and supervised students while they complete fieldwork in area healthcare organizations were asked if students were prepared to function in a clinical setting and if they were ready for the workforce.

“Our alumni and partner health care sites played an important role in the accreditation process,” Bynum said. “I am grateful for their involvement and receiving such positive feedback on our students and graduates.”

Students enrolled in the occupational therapy assistant program gain knowledge and skills needed in order to assist the profession in providing occupational therapy treatments and procedures. The selectiveness of the program contributes to its overall success. Only 25 applicants are accepted in to the program each year.

At the Kent State Columbiana County campuses, students can earn a bachelor’s degree in 14 different disciplines or an associate’s degree in 14 different areas. The Kent State Columbiana County campuses, which include Kent State East Liverpool and Kent State Salem, are home to more than 3,300 students. This year, Kent State Columbiana County again saw an increase in students. For more information please visit www.col.kent.edu or call 330-332-0361 for the Salem Campus or 330-385-3805 for the East Liverpool Campus.