Cross-Cultural Experience

OT Cross-Cultural Experience Requirement

The occupational therapy department has initiated an cross-cultural experience requirement for students entering the Master’s degree program in occupational therapy. The overall goal for the cross-cultural experience is to gain cross-cultural and cross-national insight into the political, social, cultural and economic factors that influence the provision of occupational therapy services outside of the U.S. and define the role of occupational therapy within the system of care. Social and occupational justice issues are explored, and the role of the student as a global citizen is emphasized.

Several types of cross-cultural experiences are available, including faculty-led study abroad programs and service trips that can be completed during Winter or Summer sessions. Many of the experiences include opportunities to engage with local people in the provision of occupational therapy services. Most of the experiences are interdisciplinary, allowing students to work and study with students and providers from a variety of healthcare professions. Time abroad typically ranges from one to three weeks with assignments completed prior to the trip and after returning. Students register for 1-6 units of coursework for the international experience. The Summer 2023 schedule includes cross-cultural experience in Finland, Vietnam and Taiwan

FINLAND:
Start: May 25, 2025
End: June 6, 2025

VIETNAM:
Start: June 12, 2025
End: June 26, 2025

TAIWAN (limited spots available in 2025):
Start: January 2, 2025
End: January 16, 2025
Info Session: Sept. 4, 2024; 12:15 - 1:00 pm (click here to join) 

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