Developing an occupational therapy curriculum at a small college

Area of Science:

• Higher Education Administration
• Allied Health Professions Education

Background:

• Small colleges face enrollment declines and financial pressures.
• New program development is a key strategy for institutional survival.
• Occupational therapy programs offer potential for student attraction and revenue generation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the development of an occupational therapy curriculum at a small college.
• To assess the impact of this curriculum on institutional enrollment and revenue.
• To evaluate the role of occupational therapy program development in small college viability.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of interviews with college stakeholders.
• Review of financial records, curriculum materials, and enrollment data.
• Longitudinal case study of curriculum development from 1981-1984.

Main Results:

• The occupational therapy curriculum significantly increased student enrollment.
• The program proved instrumental in generating substantial revenue for the college.
• Curriculum development positively impacted the institution's financial health.

Conclusions:

• Occupational therapy curriculum development can enhance small college viability.
• Strategic program development is crucial for small institutions in competitive markets.
• New allied health programs can be a successful revenue stream for small universities.