Fieldwork

Academic Fieldwork

Each student is assigned to a fieldwork site for each Level I and Level II experience by the academic fieldwork coordinator considering the curriculum sequence and student learning needs. A Memorandum of Understanding between Rutgers School of Health Professions and the clinical facility must be in place before a student can complete fieldwork at the facility. The fieldwork sites are located primarily in New Jersey. Arrangements for Level II fieldwork placements in other states can be made as requested by students in accordance with state authorization.

Level I Fieldwork

The goal of Level I fieldwork is to introduce students to the fieldwork experience, to apply knowledge to practice, and to develop understanding of the needs of the clients. Level I fieldwork is integral to this program's curriculum design and includes experiences designed to enrich didactic coursework through directed observation and participation in selected aspects of the occupational therapy process. (ACOTE Standards, 2020)

Level II Fieldwork

Each of the two Level II fieldwork opportunities in the occupational therapy assistant (OTA) program is an in-depth experience that requires students to demonstrate entry-level competence in delivering OT services under the direct supervision of an OT or an OTA under the supervision of an OT. Each Level II fieldwork is a minimum of eight weeks in duration.