Westfield State to Launch New Occupational Therapy Assistant in Fall 2024

In an exciting development, Westfield State University has announced the launch of its cutting-edge Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program, set to commence in Fall 2024. The program, housed within the esteemed Health Science Department, aims to prepare students for diverse and impactful roles in the healthcare sector.

This milestone positions Westfield State as the exclusive provider of an OTA degree program in Massachusetts, marking a significant achievement for the institution. What sets this program apart is its innovative approach, offering students immersive experiences within a fully simulated community. Digital spaces which include coffee shop, hospital unit, apartment complex, and more are accessible, providing a dynamic learning environment where students can develop their skills in an environment which mirrors the real world.

Graduates of the OTA program will step into crucial positions across various healthcare settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, and nursing homes. Their responsibilities will revolve around assisting individuals with disabilities or injuries, empowering them to regain independence and enhance their overall well-being.

Dr. Karen Sladyk, Professor of Health Sciences and Interim Program Director, expressed enthusiasm about the program's unique features, stating, “Simulated communities are fairly common in hospitals across the nation, but Westfield State is the first university in the country to have one right in the classroom. This is super exciting from the teaching and learning perspective. Our simulated community has a grocery store, a public park with putting green, a car on a road, and a coffee shop in addition to the hospital unit and apartment set up. In addition, we are adding a warehouse work simulation and a subway car seating module. All of these will give students an opportunity to practice skills in areas they may work with clients.”

The official unveiling of the Occupational Therapy Assistant program took place in Scanlon A on April 16, commencing at 10:30 a.m. and concluding at 12:00 p.m. Attendees anticipated an engaging Q&A session following the program introduction, along with light refreshments.

For further details about Westfield State University’s OTA program, interested individuals can find more information here.