Occupational Therapy University of Wisconsin Milwaukee

Overview

The Occupational Therapy programme at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee provides students with the essential skills to help clients overcome physical, emotional, and developmental challenges. By focusing on everyday occupations, students learn to design therapeutic interventions that promote independence, health, and wellness across the lifespan.

This curriculum is structured to build a deep understanding of human occupation through social, natural, and physical sciences. Students engage in a blend of theoretical coursework and practical service-learning experiences to prepare for diverse practice settings, including hospitals, schools, and community social service organisations.

Why Occupational Therapy at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee?

The university hosts one of the largest programmes in the region and stands as the only public provider of this degree in the Greater Milwaukee area. This allows students to access a high-quality academic experience with deep community ties and extensive professional networks.

Students benefit from a unique focus on assistive technology and accessible design, supported by state-of-the-art facilities like the Assistive Technology Laboratory. The institution is also home to the Rehabilitation Design and Disability (R2D2) Center, a multidisciplinary hub for research and innovation.

With partnerships at over 300 clinical sites across the United States, the programme ensures diverse fieldwork opportunities. Students can further customise their education by choosing specialised electives in areas such as hand therapy, trauma counselling, low vision, and acute care.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 27090 per year
• National fee: USD 27090 per year
• Local fee: USD 13659 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Therapeutic Communication
• Application of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy Theory
• Gross Anatomical Kinesiology
• Occupational Therapy in Physical Rehabilitation
• Occupational Therapy in Psychosocial Practice
• Occupational Therapy for Aging Adults
• Evidence for Practice
• Applied Neuroscience
• Musculoskeletal Analysis and Occupational Function
• Occupational Therapy with Children and Families
• Assistive Technology and Rehabilitation Technologies
• Professional Leadership of Occupational Therapists
• Critical Evaluation of Theory, Research and Practice

Careers with Occupational Therapy

Graduates are prepared for roles as licensed occupational therapists in various sectors, including nursing care facilities, home healthcare services, and private practices. Many find employment in state, local, and private hospitals or within elementary and secondary school systems.

The demand for these professionals is growing rapidly, particularly in treating conditions associated with ageing, such as stroke or arthritis. Graduates are also equipped to work with individuals managing Alzheimer’s disease, cerebral palsy, autism, or limb loss to improve their daily independence.