CMU’s occupational therapy program earns accreditation to support the healthcare needs of the region
Colorado Mesa University is proud to announce that its Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) program has received official accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). This achievement underscores CMU's commitment to providing innovative education programs that meet the needs of western Colorado and beyond.
Occupational therapy is a dynamic profession dedicated to promoting and maintaining health, maximizing independent functioning, and enhancing development through the therapeutic use of meaningful everyday activities. Occupational therapists play a pivotal role in improving the lives of individuals across diverse age groups and settings, and the program's accreditation is a significant milestone for CMU and the region.
The MSOT program at CMU matriculated its inaugural class of aspiring occupational therapists in the spring of 2022 and the program’s curriculum has been thoughtfully designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in this vital field of healthcare.
Aileen Mateo is a first-generation college student from the island of O’ahu, Hawai’i, and is thrilled to be among the inaugural occupational therapy cohort at CMU. Her decision to enter the program was both personal and practical.
“My dad was involved in a construction site accident and therapy is what helped him improve his ability to perform daily activities. My inspiration to become an occupational therapist was fueled by the positive impact I saw therapy had on my dad’s life. Seeing how occupational therapy helped individuals regain independence and improve their quality of life inspired me to pursue this profession,” said Mateo. “I choose to attend CMU for my undergrad and graduate degrees because of the advantage of having a personalized educational experience. CMU has an outstanding reputation for small class sizes that allow students the opportunity to build strong relationships with their professors and colleagues. One of the key reasons I chose this program is because it allowed me to interact with my professors one-on-one and receive individualized guidance and mentorship. This hands-on experience and faculty dedication are something I couldn’t find in other programs. I believe that the CMU OT program will equip me with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in this field. I’m truly excited about the opportunity to increase the presence of occupational therapy providers here on the Western Slope!”
ACOTE's accreditation reaffirms the program's commitment to meeting and exceeding the rigorous educational standards set by the profession. Graduates of CMU's MSOT program will be eligible to take the national certification examination for occupational therapists administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). Upon successful completion of this examination, they will earn the title of Occupational Therapist, Registered (OTR).
In addition to its rigorous and personalized curriculum, CMU's MSOT program benefits from the university's state-of-the-art St. Mary’s Medical Education Center facility and dedicated faculty members who bring extensive real-world experience to the classroom. CMU’s didactic and field-based components ensure that students receive a well-rounded and practical education, positioning them for success in the field of occupational therapy.
Occupational Therapy Program Director and Assistant Professor Carla Wilhite, PhD, celebrated the accreditation and the impact it will have on the local economy.
"We are so fortunate to have Colorado Mesa University’s commitment to developing the health care professions programs, and literally growing our own workforce. The accreditation of the program for seven years is a testament to the work of the faculty, staff, students, and administration," said Wilhite.
The journey to accreditation is a testament to CMU's commitment to excellence in education and its dedication to producing top-tier healthcare professionals. Now, upon graduating, occupational therapy students are fully prepared to ensure the health and well-being of the diversity of individuals in our community by putting the values of love, dignity and power that the program is infused with into action.
For more information about the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy program at Colorado Mesa University, or to apply for their 2024 spring cohort, please visit their program page.