College of Allied Health to house new occupational therapy master’s program 

SEARCY, Ark. (Dec. 11, 2023) — Harding University has announced a two-year Master of Science in occupational therapy program in its College of Allied Health. It will join other rehabilitative therapeutic practices including cardiac function and interventional technology, physical therapy, physician assistant studies, speech-language pathology, and strength and conditioning. 

In the midst of a health care workforce shortage and the lasting disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic, the University saw increased demand for compassionate, high-level care in Arkansas communities and beyond. Harding developed the O.T. program to meet that need. 

“We’re proud to unveil this huge undertaking by Harding’s staff and College of Allied Health faculty,” said Dr. Michael McGalliard, dean for the College of Allied Health and associate provost for health sciences. “This interest really speaks to the hearts of our incredible leadership team at Harding and their desire to mend the brokenness left by staff shortages in the health care industry.”

During the University's research into programs of this nature, educators discovered that many students are seeking curriculum with a focus on becoming OT practitioners, and there were no existing master’s programs in Arkansas. Graduating in two years enables students to enter the workforce sooner, earn higher wages and pay off student loans more quickly, making it a financially sound choice compared to longer programs.

Dr. Cathy Acre has been named director, bringing 30 years of experience in occupational therapy and higher education. Joining her are Paige Spillman and Melodie Mauney, both of whom are currently pursuing doctoral degrees. A fourth full-time faculty member, Jill Knight, will join in 2024. 

“This is more than just an academic pursuit,” Acre stated. “Our students are not just receiving a high-quality Christian education. They’re also further shaping their hearts with compassion to help people in need.”

Dr. Cathy Acre has been named director,
bringing 30 years of experience in occupational therapy and higher education.

Harding’s program is designed to blend Kolb’s experiential model of learning with transformative educational theory and adult learning principles. Students will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to become O.T. practitioners while experiencing a shared sense of inspired purpose, an objective that President Mike Williams has championed since his first day on campus and maintains as the University celebrates its centennial year.

Curriculum will focus on the core of practice as an occupational therapist, occupational therapy process, professionalism and integrity, and global citizenship. Students will have the opportunity to complete a Level I Fieldwork experience through a University-led mission, a transformative component of the program.

The program will be located in a newly-remodeled space in the Health Sciences Building South Main Campus. A house on campus is also being renovated to simulate a patient’s home where  students will practice skills in a real-world setting.

Harding plans to host a cohort of 24 students in its inaugural class. Those interested can apply for the occupational therapy program through March 6, 2024.

To learn more about the occupational therapy program or to apply, email occupationaltherapy@harding.edu or visit harding.edu/ot.