Program Contact: Barbara Nadeau 203-582-8691
The Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Occupational Therapy (CAGS) is a flexible, online 12-credit program designed to: a) prepare bachelor-level occupational therapists for post-professional occupational therapy doctorate (OTD) studies at Quinnipiac University; or b) provide concentrated studies in a specialized area of practice for occupational therapists regardless of entry-level degree (i.e., bachelor’s, master’s or doctorate).
The CAGS program begins in January and consists of four 3-credit courses taken sequentially. Two common courses taken at the start and end of the program will have an emphasis on scholarly writing and integration. The other two courses are based on the student’s chosen track and are specifically designed for specialized areas of practice. The CAGS program currently offers three possible tracks: a) school-based practice; b) teaching and learning in occupational therapy; or c) hand therapy.
School-Based Practice: This certificate program focuses on advanced topics in school-based practice. Students deeply explore legislation, assessment, intervention and innovative approaches to school-based practice.
Teaching and Learning: Students in this certificate program analyze learning theory and the relationship between learning theory and occupational therapy. Additionally, students explore various educational models and tools to enhance teaching and professional presentations.
Hand Therapy: Students explore best practices and evidence in hand therapy and synthesize their knowledge through a critique of clinical protocols and practice guidelines. This track is designed for practitioners who are currently working in a hand therapy setting.
Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Occupational Therapy Curriculum
The curriculum for the professional courses in the program are reviewed regularly and are subject to modification in both content and credit as deemed necessary to maintain a high-quality educational experience and keep current with best practices in the profession.
Course List
| Code |
Title |
Credits |
| OT 615 | Critical Writing I | 3 |
| or OT 616 | Self-Directed Study in Clinical Practice |
| OT 625 | Special Topics in School-Based Practice I | 3 |
| or OT 620 | Foundations in Teaching and Learning I |
| or OT 630 | CAGS Hand Therapy I |
| OT 626 | Special Topics in School-Based Practice II | 3 |
| or OT 621 | Creating Effective Learning Environments and Experiences |
| or OT 631 | CAGS Hand Therapy II |
| OT 635 | Scholarly Use of Evidence in Writing | 3 |
| Total Credits | 12 |
The CAGS curriculum is framed around the following objectives which support Quinnipiac University’s institutional mission to prepare graduate students for achievement and leadership in their professional fields as well as facilitate students’ ability to be valued and contributing members of their professional communities. Upon completion of the certificate program, students will be able to:
- Synthesize theory and evidence in a practice concentration
- Develop intermediate skills to engage in scholarly writing
Admission Requirements
An entry-level degree in occupational therapy from a program approved by Accreditation Council for Education of Occupational Therapy (ACOTE) or a World Federation of Occupational Therapy (WFOT).
A GPA of 3.0 or higher in the prospective student’s entry-level occupational therapy education.
Proof of initial certification by the National Board for Certification of Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) or American Occupational Therapy Certification Board (AOTCB).
Proof of active licensure to practice.
For students who graduated from a WFOT-program where the primary language is not English, completion of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
Verification of employment as an occupational therapist.
Current membership to the American Occupational Therapy Association.
Two professional references. Examples of acceptable references include those from a supervisor, a professional peer, or a faculty member from an academic program you attended.
A personal essay that sets forth the applicant’s professional goals and compatibility with the program’s learning objectives.
