OT Manual Content

WELCOME to . . .

The Department of Occupational Therapy at the University of Pittsburgh!

The University of Pittsburgh’s OT program is one of the TOP 10 OT programs in the USA!

The U.S. News & World Report rates the University of Pittsburgh’s OT program as #3 in the Nation!

We specialize in facilitating your learning through interactive, student-friendly classes and broadening your horizons through study in an internationally renowned academic healthcare center. We are pleased that you have selected the University of Pittsburgh for your professional education.

The purpose of this Manual is to assist you in becoming acquainted with the policies, procedures, and expectations of the Department of Occupational Therapy of the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (SHRS). We ask that you read this Manual carefully and seek clarification from your Academic Advisor/Program Director about content that you do not understand. We will keep you informed about any changes in the content that occur during your enrollment. Although this Manual provides you with some of the more salient policies and procedures, the UNIVERSITY, the DIVISION OF HEALTH SCIENCES, and the SCHOOL OF HEALTH AND REHABILITATION SCIENCES also have policies and procedures that affect you. You are responsible for being cognizant of the University, Division, School, and Department regulations relevant to your program of study and should refer to the websites and sources listed in this Manual for handbooks and bulletins containing these policies.

You will receive an electronic version of the OT Manual Acknowledgement and Photo/Video and Academic Products Permission Form (Appendix G). 

Once you have read this Manual and fully understand its content, you will e-sign the OT Manual Acknowledgement and Photo/Video and Academic Products Permission Form, indicating that you understand and agree to abide by all the policies, procedures, and expectations of the Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, and the University of Pittsburgh.

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The Department of Occupational Therapy’s mission is to:

• Educate entry-level professional students to practice evidence-based occupational therapy in a variety of healthcare, community, and educational settings; manage occupational therapy service delivery; and contribute to the profession through service and participation in research;
• Provide customized courses of study for post-professional students (master’s and doctoral), designed to meet their individual learning needs and to enhance their ability to assume leadership roles in practice, education, research, program development, or program evaluation;
• Provide continuing education for practicing therapists to facilitate their continued competence;
• Plan and engage in research to advance occupational therapy (and rehabilitation) practice and education; and
• Serve the University and public and professional communities through participation in university and community service and professional associations.

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The University of Pittsburgh’s Department of Occupational Therapy will be nationally and internationally recognized as a leader in occupational therapy education, a pioneer in occupational therapy research, and a partner in regional practice and development.

1982    The Department of Occupational Therapy and the program in occupational therapy (BS) were established in the School of Health Related Professions.

1985    The entry-level baccalaureate curriculum was accredited by the Council for Allied Health Education and Accreditation (CAHEA), American Medical Association.

            The program in occupational therapy graduated its first students with a BS degree.

1990    The entry-level baccalaureate curriculum was re-accredited by CAHEA.

1992    The post-professional master’s program (MS) with an emphasis in occupational therapy was established in the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (formerly titled the School of Health Related Professions).

1993    The first students from the MS program with an emphasis in occupational therapy graduated.

1997    The entry-level baccalaureate curriculum was re-accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA).

1999    The Department of Occupational Therapy began participating in the interdisciplinary doctoral program in rehabilitation science (PhD).

2000    The entry-level master’s program in occupational therapy (MOT) was approved and established as a degree type at the University of Pittsburgh and was accredited by the ACOTE.

            The Beta Tau Chapter of Pi Theta Epsilon was established at the University of Pittsburgh.

2002    The program in occupational therapy graduated its first students with a MOT degree.

2003    The first student from the Department of Occupational Therapy graduated with a PhD degree.

2005    The MOT program was re-accredited by ACOTE for a period of 10 years from academic year 2004/2005 to 2014/2015.

2014    The Doctor of Clinical Science (CScD) with an emphasis in occupational therapy was approved as a post-professional degree.

2015    The MOT program was re-accredited by ACOTE for a period of 10 years from academic year 2014/2015 to 2024/2025.

2016    The first students graduated from the CScD with an emphasis in occupational therapy program.

            The Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program was approved and the OTD was established as a degree type at the University of Pittsburgh.

            The Master of Science on Occupational Therapy program was approved and the MS in OT was established as a degree type at the University of Pittsburgh[LRA1] .

2018    The post-professional master’s program was revised and established as a Master of Science (MS) in occupational therapy.

            The Department of Occupational Therapy moved to Bridgeside Point I.

2019    The OTD program was accredited by ACOTE for a period of 7 years (the maximum length of time granted for a new program) from academic year 2019/2020 to 2026/2027.

2020    The program in occupational therapy graduated its first students with an OTD degree.

            The OTD was designated as a Program of Merit (POM) in Gerontology which acknowledges a commitment to providing a high-quality program that prepares students to contribute their talents and knowledge to the field of aging.

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Nationally Recognized Achievements:

• American Occupational Therapy Association – Award of Merit; Eleanor Clarke Slagle Lectureship (highest academic honor); Recognized Fellows; and Association Leadership: Board of Directors, Representative Assembly, Special Interest Sections, and Ad-hoc committees
• American Occupational Therapy Foundation – Research Academy honored members; and Leaders & Legacies Society
• Research Grants – National Institutes of Health; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Department of Defense; and Foundations
• Experts in the fields of Pediatrics; Gerontology; Neurorehabilitation; Disability Analysis; and Health Policy

Our Students:

• Recipients of research/scholarly and leadership awards by the American College of Rheumatology Research & Education Foundation, RESNA/Whitaker Foundation, Albert Schweitzer Fellowship, Jewish Healthcare Foundation (JHF) Patient Safety Fellowship, JHF Jonas Salk Health Fellowship, JHF Death and Dying Fellowship, JHF Health Innovations Fellowship, National Institute for Disability and Rehabilitation Research, and Pi Theta Epsilon (nationally recognized honor society for occupational therapy students and alumni)
• University (Alumni Association, UPMC Endowed Scholarship, Nationality Room Scholarships, Anne Pascascio Scholarship), Department (Joan C. Rogers Student Award, Caroline Robinson Brayley Student Enrichment Fund, Department of Occupational Therapy Award of Professional Excellence), and professional (American Occupational Therapy Foundation, American Occupational Therapy Association, Pennsylvania Occupational Therapy Association, National AMBUCS, Inc.) scholarship awardees
• Traditional and non-traditional students with diverse backgrounds and life experiences
• Application of education through participation in research and service activities
• Achieve the gold-level of AOTA Student Membership Circle (100% student membership).

Our Program and Curriculum:

• Educational program established in 1982
• OTD program was accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education in 2019
• OTD program ranked #3 in the nation by U.S. News and World Report
• Fieldwork opportunities across the country in a variety of practice areas (over 150 sites)
• Innovative learning opportunities, including clinical simulation experiences with practitioners, patient simulators, and standardized patients

Our Graduates:

• National certification examination scores exceed national average
• Hold advanced practice positions including: clinical specialists, administrators, managers, researchers, educators, and business owners

Our Facilities:

• Located within the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, one of six schools (Dental Medicine, Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Public Health) of the health sciences in a large academic medical center, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC)
• UPMC is rated among "the best" in the nation by U.S. News and World Report
• The University has numerous federally funded Centers of Clinical Excellence
• Best library facilities in Western Pennsylvania, among the top in the nation for psychiatric holdings
• State-of-the-art teaching and laboratory facilities
• Interprofessional learning opportunities

Our University and Community:

• Founded in 1787 – one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the US
• Member of the Association of American Universities, an association of the leading research universities in North America
• In 2021, the Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education College Rankings again named Pitt as the No. 1 public university in the Northeastern United States.
• Ranks 5th among US universities in terms of competitive grants awarded to members of its faculty by the National Institute of Health
• Ranks 9th nationally in terms of total federal science and engineering research and development support, according to the National Science Foundation
• Strong university ties to the local medical community
• 132 acre campus (Yes, we have trees – in fact, over 500!)Access to ethnic diversity and cultural resources of a large city with a small-town atmosphere

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The beliefs of the faculty of the Department of Occupational Therapy, which comprise the program’s philosophy, are consistent with the current published philosophy of the profession.

Philosophically, faculty of the Department of Occupational Therapy share the following beliefs about humans (students, patients/clients/consumers):

• Each person is an open system composed of interrelated structures and functions organized into a coherent whole that interacts with the environment.
• Each person has the capability, right, and responsibility to make choices and has the right to dignity and respect.
• Each person is an active being who has the capability to maintain, grow, and adapt through occupation (purposeful activity).
• When a person’s ability to adapt creatively is impaired, dysfunction occurs.
• The occupational therapist uses occupation (purposeful activity) to enhance function through restoration, compensation, and education.
• The occupational therapist uses occupation (purposeful activity) as a primary method of assessment, intervention, and health promotion.

Similarly, the Department of Occupational Therapy faculty share common beliefs regarding how adult students learn:

• Students are active learners.
• Students develop cognitive (thinking) skills in a hierarchical manner, from a simple recall of knowledge (facts) to the complex evaluation of knowledge, and cognitive learning is enhanced when knowledge is organized from simple to complex.
• Students develop psychomotor skills primarily through practice, and skill learning is facilitated when practice is supervised.
• Students develop affective skills primarily through imitation and socialization, and affective learning is facilitated through self-reflection and exposure to competent role models.
• Students require assistance to effectively integrate their developing cognitive, psychomotor, and affective skills.
• Students learn in different ways, and hence a variety of teaching methods are needed to facilitate optimal learning.

Students enter our the OTD/MS programs with a broad background in the liberal arts as well as specified prerequisites in the biological and behavioral sciences and statistics. To support active learning as well as individual learning styles, students are provided with multiple guided (e.g., student oral and poster presentations, case-based format) and interactive (e.g., Canvas discussion group, role modeling) learning opportunities in addition to lectures.

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The UNIVERSITY, the DIVISION OF HEALTH SCIENCES, the SCHOOL OF HEALTH AND REHABILITATION SCIENCES, and the DEPARTMENT OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY have policies affecting students. Students are responsible for being cognizant of the University, Division, School, and Department regulations relevant to their program of study and should refer to the websites and sources listed below for handbooks, bulletins and manuals containing these policies. The information in this Manual is limited to key policies affecting OTD/MS in OT students.

University                Graduate & Professional Studies Catalog (use dropdown menu) | https://catalog.upp.pitt.edu/index.php   

Health Sciences      University of Pittsburgh Health Sciences | www.health.pitt.edu

SHRS                       SHRS Graduate Student Handbook | www.shrs.pitt.edu/current-students/student-handbooks

OT                            Manual for the Doctor of Occupational Therapy Student | www.shrs.pitt.edu/otd/manual-otd-student

                                 Manual for the Master’s of Science in Occupational Therapy | www.shrs.pitt.edu/manual-ms-student

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Policy: Students have access to the Ombudsperson for the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (SHRS).

Purpose: The Ombudsperson is a person who handles complaints, serves as a mediator, and a spokesperson for the rights of a particular individual or group. The Ombudsperson in SHRS will be a neutral person (Non-faculty) for students whom they can engage in informal discussions to express concerns about conflicts and other issues that may arise during the course of their education that they believe are difficult to address with the academic department.

Procedure: The Ombudsperson for SHRS is Jessica Maguire, Executive Director of Student Affairs. To find out more information on the role of the Ombudsperson for SHRS and for her contact information, visit www.shrs.pitt.edu/current-students/contact-us.

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Policy: Students will be assigned an Academic Advisor or Program Director.

Purpose: Good academic advising supports quality education. Academic advising provides students with the opportunity to discuss their: academic performance and progress, professional behaviors, Portfolio, and satisfaction with the program.

Because the OTD/MS in OT curriculum is standardized, the need for advisement regarding courses or course sequencing for students is minimal. However, students who: (a) are seeking to obtain course credit through examination; (b) want to take an overload to enhance their education; or (c) because of personal or academic reasons need to vary the standardized course sequence, benefit from additional advisement.

Procedure: Students will be assigned an Academic Advisor/Program Director upon admission to the OTD/MS in OT program and will be in contact with their Academic Advisor/Program Director at least once per term for advisement. Additional advisement sessions are scheduled when recommended by the Academic Advisor, Program Director, and/or other faculty, or as requested by the student.

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Policy: Students must submit a Plan of Studies.

Purpose: The Plan of Studies documents the courses that the OTD/MS in OT student will, or has, enrolled in to meet their educational goal of a Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)/Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MS in OT) degree. An accurate, updated Plan of Studies must be submitted and approved by the SHRS Registrar before the OTD/MS in OT student can be certified for graduation.

Procedure: The student will complete the Plan of Studies in consultation with the Academic Advisor or Program Director. The Plan of Studies will be completed during the first term of enrollment and will be updated, in consultation with the Academic Advisor or Program Director, when course changes are made.

See SHRS Graduate Student Handbook at www.shrs.pitt.edu/current-students/student-handbooks and Plan of Studies form at www.shrs.pitt.edu/current-students/forms.

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Quality Point Average (GPA) is a numerical indication of a student’s academic achievement. GPA is the average of letter grades earned toward a degree. To maintain full graduate status, the OTD and MS in OT student must achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (based on a 4.00 scale) in the courses that make up the OTD or MS in OT program.

Courses that make up the OTD program have a grade option of Letter Grade (LG) with exception of the “seminar” courses (OT 2203, OT 2209, OT 2216, OT 2220, and OT 3213), Fieldwork Education courses (OT 2215, OT 2219, OT 2226, OT 2228, and OT 2229), and Experiential Preceptorship course (OT 3208) which have a grade option of Satisfactory/ Unsatisfactory (HSU). Courses that make up the MS in OT program have a grade option of Letter Grade (LG).  Preceptorship courses (OT 2241, OT 2242, OT 2246, and OT 2247) and OT 2245, OT 2249 and OT 2251, have a grade option of Honors/Satisfactory/ Unsatisfactory (HSU). The grades H and Sare counted toward graduation but not the student’s GPA. OTD students must achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 in all didactic coursework in the OTD curriculum and acceptable competency skills prior to enrolling in Level II fieldwork courses (OT 2228 and OT 2229) and the Experiential Preceptorship course (OT 3209) to maintain full graduate status.  Students must successfully complete all required coursework and achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.000 to be eligible for graduation.

Students must achieve a grade of C or better in the courses that make up the OTD and MS in OT programs with a grade option of Letter Grade. For the courses with a grade option of HSU, OTD and MS in OT students must achieve an S. Students who receive a grade of C- or below (or U) in a course must repeat that course and attain a grade of C or better (or S). The grade earned by repeating a course is used in lieu of the grade originally earned, although the original grade is not erased from the transcript. Failure to receive at least a grade of C (or S) after the second opportunity to complete the course may result in the OTD/MS in OT student being dismissed from the OTD/MS in OT program. Students will not be permitted to register for advanced courses if the student received a grade of C- or below for a prerequisite to the more advanced course(s). This will require the OTD or MS in OT student to extend his or her program beyond the scheduled date for degree completion.

The OTD/MS in OT student who fails to make satisfactory progress may be subject to academic probation and/or dismissal. When the cumulative GPA of an OTD or MS in OT student falls below 3.000 in any one term or period of 9 credits, the student is automatically placed on academic probation. Visit https://www.shrs.pitt.edu/current-students/student-handbooks for the Academic Policy in the SHRS Graduate Student Handbook.

Conditions for loan eligibility and many scholarships usually require students to complete a specified number of credits each year and maintain a specified quality point average. Questions about the effect of unsatisfactory academic standing on loans should be directed to the Office of Admissions and Financial Aid, Alumni Hall, 412-624-7488. Questions about the effect of unsatisfactory academic standing on scholarships should be directed to the particular department or organization awarding the scholarship.

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Grades are available shortly after the term ends or after a grade change has been made. Students can access their grades online via the University Portal at www.my.pitt.edu. Visit www.registrar.pitt.edu/grades.html and the SHRS Graduate Student Handbook at www.shrs.pitt.edu/current-students/student-handbooks for more information on grades.

The University of Pittsburgh Grading System follows:

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The Department of Occupational Therapy adheres to the University and SHRS policies and procedures regarding probation, suspension, and dismissal.

Graduate students must have a 3.000 cumulative GPA to be eligible to graduate.

Visit https://catalog.upp.pitt.edu/content.php?catoid=6&navoid=580 (Graduate & Professional Studies Catalog) for the University policy and procedure regarding probation, suspension, and dismissal.

Visit www.shrs.pitt.edu/SHRShandbooks/ for the SHRS policy and procedure regarding academic probation in the Graduate Student Handbook.

Visit www.studentaffairs.pitt.edu/studentconduct for the University of Pittsburgh’s Student Code of Conduct and Judicial Procedures which outlines nonacademic standards of conduct appropriate to the University in consonance with the educational goals of the University.

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Policy: Students are to turn in assignments on their due dates and are to take examinations/quizzes at the scheduled time.

Purpose: Completion of assignments in a timely manner facilitates learning and instruction. All students completing quizzes and examinations at the scheduled time eliminates sharing of information with students who have not taken the quiz/examination. It also prevents the instructor from having to do extra work to develop a second test or monitor another test. In other words, it is fair to students and instructors.

Procedure:

Assignments. The due dates for assignments are listed in the syllabus and/or identified by the course instructor. Turning in assignments late, that is, after their due dates, is taken into account in the final course grade. For example, points may be deducted from the professional behavior component of the final course grade and/or from other components as specified by the instructor. All assignments, whether they are to be graded or not, must be submitted. It is the responsibility of the student to obtain and complete any missed in-class assignments prior to the next class.

Examinations/Quizzes. Dates of examinations/quizzes are listed in the syllabus. Students are expected to take all examinations/quizzes on the dates listed, so plan accordingly. Make up examinations/quizzes will only be scheduled under extreme circumstances. If an extreme circumstance prevents the student from taking the examination/quiz on the scheduled day at the scheduled time, the student may request an alternate examination/quiz date through the Absence Notification Survey. The student will be notified in writing if an exception is to be made.  Students are encouraged to submit requests as soon as they are aware there may be an extreme circumstance.

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Policy: The Department of Occupational Therapy asks students to sign a release permitting faculty to use examples of the student’s academic work for educational purposes beyond the student’s own learning (e.g., models for future students, curriculum review).

Purpose: Under the Buckley Amendment, records or information pertaining to students’ academic performance are confidential. By signing a release, students give permission for faculty to use examples of the student’s academic work for future educational purposes.

Procedure:  Students agreeing to permit faculty to use examples of the student’s academic work for additional educational purposes will complete and submit a signed release to a faculty member. The release is included in the Manual Acknowledgement Agreement.

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Policy: The OT student is expected to demonstrate positive participation and work habits in their interactions with faculty members, practitioners, and fellow students during didactic, fieldwork, preceptorship, and preceptorship education to promote a shared supportive learning environment. 

Purpose: In addition to knowledge and skills, professional education socializes the student to the personal, interpersonal, and interprofessional work habits that the student is expected to have as an occupational therapy practitioner, manager, and contributor.

Procedure: The student should familiarize themselves with the OT work habits. Participation and work habits are evaluated for every OT student by each instructor who is teaching a course during the term. Problems are typically addressed by the individual instructor, but concerns are brought to the attention of the student’s OT Academic Advisor or Program Director and further intervention may be deemed necessary. Intervention is determined on a case-by-case basis based on the severity of poor participation and work habits. Work habits include: 

• Clinical/Professional Reasoning
• Communication
• Confidence
• Engagement
• Integrity
• Interpersonal Skills
• Professionalism
• Teamwork
• Time Management 
• Work Behaviors

Students are expected to refrain from “distracting behaviors” when class is in session to maintain a supportive shared learning environment. Examples include but are not limited to:

• Using a cell phone (including text messaging)
• Using a laptop for tasks unrelated to class notation
• Conversing during lectures
• Not being ready to begin class on time
• Arriving late and/or leaving early
• Sleeping/putting head down on table
• Eating, drinking or chewing gum in an audible manner

The use of social media sites is increasingly common. Examples include, but are not limited to, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Snapchat, blogs, LinkedIn, Wikipedia, Second Life, Flickr, and podcasts. Social media often crosses traditional boundaries between professional and personal relationships. Therefore, it takes extra vigilance to assure that personal, professional and university reputations are protected. The OT student who publishes information on social media sites is expected to demonstrate professional behavior when doing so. See below for the SHRS Social Media Policy. Also, visit http://technology.pitt.edu/security/best-practice-safe-social-networking for the University’s Best Practice Guidelines for Safe Social Networking.

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The School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Impaired Student Policy details expected professional behaviors of SHRS graduate students in all settings. The policy notes student safety as the first concern of the university, school, and department as related to student use or impairment from drugs and alcohol. Visit www.shrs.pitt.edu/SHRShandbooks/ for the full SHRS policy regarding student impairment in the Graduate Student Handbook.

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Social media is rapidly expanding, and new outlets are created every day. Professional organizations and ethical codes are often outdated given the rapid expansion of social media. It is essential that student and faculty remain aware and vigilant regarding the social media ethical challenges facing health professionals, clients, patients, and students.

Students are responsible for maintaining a professional social media presence related to any SHRS education activities. Some students may find it helpful to create separate professional and personal social media accounts.

We recommend that students consider the following prior to posting or transmitting on social media:

• Consider the audience and potential impact of your post prior to transmission.
• Assume anything that you post or transmit on social media can be made or viewed by the public.
• An electronic post or transmission is often traceable, without an opportunity for removal.
• Employers often search social media to learn more about you prior to interviews or offered employment.
• Clients often search social media to learn more about you. Proximity based apps and social media post new challenges to maintaining professional boundaries between health professionals and clients or patients.

SHRS students must:

• Respect the ethical standards of the profession in carrying out his or her academic assignments.
• Comply with HIPPA’s social media rules.
• Read, review, and follow the social media policy of your practicum or internship placement.
• Comply with school and University academic integrity guidelines.
• Do not post or transmit any information or reference about your work with clients.
• Do not post clinical encounters, clinical experiences or information that pertains to working with clients.

Please note that boundaries on social media are no longer as simple as not ‘friending’ a client, professor, or colleague on Facebook. For example, all contacts in your phone book can read your posts on Venmo without being friends on the app. It is difficult to predict the latest ethical problem or boundary that will arise with social media. Therefore, please remain aware and consult with faculty or supervisors on these important issues. Faculty may have to act upon on any material that does not comply with current academic integrity guidelines, professional ethical standards, or HIPPA policies.

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Policy: Students may not audio or video record or take a photographic image of classroom/laboratory lectures, discussion, and/or activities and course materials without the advance written permission of the instructor. Any such recordings or images properly approved in advance can be used solely for the student’s own private use.

Purpose: Adherence to the classroom/laboratory recording and imaging policy is necessary to ensure the free and open discussion of ideas.

Procedure:  Students requesting permission to record or take an image of a class/laboratory lecture, discussion, activity, and/or course materials must submit the request in writing to the instructor prior to the start of class on the day of the lecture, discussion, and/or activity. Acceptance of the request (i.e., permission to record or image) will be determined by the instructor.

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Policy: The OT student is expected to display a clean and groomed appearance, and wear appropriate attire in the classroom, laboratory, and clinical settings at all times.

Purpose: Adherence to dress code criteria is necessary to maintain safety, health, professionalism, and a shared supportive learning environment.

Procedure: Appropriate attire is dependent on the setting and the activities required. Casual dress is appropriate attire for classroom and laboratory settings, however when community members (e.g., clients, guest speakers) are present OTD students are expected to present with a professional appearance (i.e., business casual clothing) – see below.  Students will adhere to the dress code of the assigned fieldwork/preceptorship site (course instructors will direct students where to obtain this information). Unless otherwise instructed, Department of Occupational Therapy student name pins/badges are worn at the fieldwork/preceptorship sites at all times. Name pins/badges are provided by the Department of Occupational Therapy. Replacement name pins cost $10 and name badges cost $5 (amount subject to change).  Students are responsible for any and all expenses incurred for clothing required by an assigned fieldwork/preceptorship site. Failure to comply with this dress code will be viewed as a professional behavior issue. Problems are typically addressed by the course instructor, but concerns may warrant the attention of the student’s Academic Advisor and the Program Director, and further intervention may be deemed necessary. Intervention is determined on a case-by-case basis and remediation is based on the type and severity of the behavior.

Fieldwork/Preceptorship:

• Clothing in fieldwork/preceptorship settings is determined by the facility. Students are expected to learn the facility dress code prior to the start of fieldwork/preceptorship and abide by it. Some clinical sites have specific uniform requirements, and some require business casual attire. Business casual is slacks/pants; skirts of modest length; collared shirt; blouse/shirt/top/sweater with at least short sleeves; blazer/jacket/sports coat; foot coverings; hard soled shoes. Clothing worn during fieldwork should be of correct size and fit. Pants and blouses should be worn in such a way as to prevent undergarments from showing.
• A University of Pittsburgh (or facility) photo identification badge (or name pin if approved by fieldwork/preceptorship facility) must be worn at all times.
• In general, fieldwork/preceptorship sites require staff and students to abide by the following in order to maintain infection control and safety:

1. Hair should be neat, clean, and pulled back with small simple hair accessories, so hair does not come in contact with the client. Note: some fieldwork and capstone sites may have policies related to hair color of an unnatural tone (e.g., green, blue, pink, purple, etc.)

2. Facial hair should be clean and groomed. Note: some fieldwork and capstone sites may have policies related to facial hair (e.g., fit testing for N95 masks).

3. Wearing jewelry (including, but not limited to dangling earrings/hoops, pins, buttons, and other adornments) is discouraged during direct patient contact. Note: some fieldwork and capstone sites may have policies related to jewelry (e.g., facial / oral piercings).

4. Makeup should be kept at a minimum. Cologne and perfume are not recommended as many clients are sensitive to scents (including, but not limited to scented hair sprays, lotions, etc.). Smelling of smoke is not permitted.

5. Nails should be groomed and kept to a length that is not detrimental to client safety or infection control. When having direct contact with clients, natural nail tips should be less than one quarter (1/4) inch past the tip of the finger and artificial fingernails or extenders (including, but not limited to, acrylic nails, all overlaps, tips, bondings, extensions, tapes, inlays, and wraps) should not be worn.

6. Footwear must be clean; closed heel and closed toe; leather or vinyl; in good condition; and worn with foot coverings (hosiery or socks). If athletic shoes are permitted by the fieldwork or capstone site, they should be clean, in good condition, and ONLY used for work purposes.

Classroom/Laboratory:

• Clothing should be clean and free of offensive messages; excessive skin exposure; and exposed undergarments (upper and lower).
• Individual instructors may request alternate clothing in certain instances to fully participate in course class and lab sessions.
• Hygiene that is supportive of a shared learning environment is required.

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Policy: Students must complete training modules addressing research conduct and compliance provided by the Collaborative Institutional Training Institute (CITI).

Purpose: The purpose of the training is not only to satisfy government and University of Pittsburgh policy requirements, but to enhance research activities at all stages.

Procedure: The student will complete the web-based CITI modules (Biomedical Course; Responsible Conduct of Research; Conflicts of Interest; GCP – Social and Behavioral Research Best Practice for Clinical Research; Privacy and Information Security). A copy of the certificates earned upon completion of the modules is filed with the Department of Occupational Therapy. The student should also place a copy of the certificates in their Portfolio. Students receive detailed instructions, including the due dates, for required documents. All required documents must be filed with the Department of Occupational Therapy (see Appendix F).

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Policy:  Students must be familiar with the contents of the Department of Occupational Therapy Safety Binder.

Purpose: Knowledge of health and safety issues is necessary to maintain the health and safety of students, faculty, and clients during all educational activities. Some course activities and assignments may require the student to use potentially hazardous equipment and/or chemicals.

Procedure: While course instructors review safety information prior to using hazardous equipment and chemicals, it is the student’s responsibility to be familiar with safety precautions. Information pertaining to the safe handling of equipment, and, as per the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all chemicals, and infection control, medical emergency, and evacuation procedures are available in the Safety Binders located in classrooms/laboratories and the student lounge of the Department of Occupational Therapy.

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Policy: Students must carry professional liability insurance throughout enrollment in the OT program.

Purpose: Professional liability insurance protects OT students against claims of healthcare malpractice by patients (clients) or their legal representatives.

Procedure: Professional Liability coverage is provided by the University’s medical liability insurance plan at no additional cost to enrolled students. The SHRS Office of Student Services will provide verification of coverage to the Department and student upon request.

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Policy:  Students must complete initial and annual health appraisal forms (including health history, physical examination, immunization record, laboratory tests, and drug screens).

Purpose: To protect the student and patients/clients from infectious diseases, fieldwork and preceptorship sites require physical examinations prior.

Procedure: The student will receive information from the Department regarding the health screening requirements. The initial health appraisal form and the annual health appraisal form must be completed by the physician/examiner. 

Completion of the health appraisal forms provides evidence that the student is cleared to begin fieldwork/preceptorship in a clinical setting and interact with clients. The student is responsible for assuring that all areas of the forms are completed, including physician/examiner signatures. Incomplete forms may result in the student being delayed in starting fieldwork or preceptorship and placement of a hold on registration for the following term. The student should retain a copy of the health appraisal forms (including copies of laboratory results) in the event that the student is required to present them to the fieldwork or preceptorship site. The initial and annual health appraisal forms must be submitted to the Department of Occupational Therapy.

Students must notify the Academic Fieldwork Coordinator of any change in health status to determine if another physical examination and/or additional testing/documentation are required.

The student is responsible for any and all costs incurred to complete health appraisals and associated testing and documentation. The student may be required to fulfill additional health-related requirements specified by the fieldwork or preceptorship site.

Students receive detailed instructions, including the due dates, for required documents. All required documents must be filed with the Department of Occupational Therapy (see Appendix F).

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Policy: The University of Pittsburgh requires that all affiliates on all campuses be vaccinated against COVID-19 or have an approved exemption. This policy applies to all students.

Purpose: The OT program requires students to complete clinical education at facilities external to the University. Many clinical sites require employees, trainees, and students to be compliant with the federal vaccination requirement to protect the student and patients/clients from infectious diseases. This includes providing proof of vaccination or exemption to the clinical site. Failure to comply with this requirement may preclude the student from completing the clinical requirements of the OT program. Note: some clinical sites will not permit students to complete clinical rotations without proof of vaccination and will not accept exemptions.

Procedure: The student will receive information from the Department regarding the COVID-19 vaccine requirement.  Students can receive free COVID-19 vaccinations through the University Student Health Services. Students receive detailed instructions, including the due dates, for required documents. All required documents must be filed with the Department of Occupational Therapy (see Appendix F).

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Policy:  Students are required to receive an annual flu vaccine.

Purpose: To protect the student and patients/clients from infectious diseases, fieldwork and preceptorship sites require a flu vaccine prior.

Procedure: The student will receive information from the Department regarding the influenza vaccination requirement. Students can receive a free seasonal flu vaccination through University Student Health Services. Students receive detailed instructions, including the due dates, for required documents. All required documents must be filed with the Department of Occupational Therapy (see Appendix F).

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Policy:  Students are required to carry personal health insurance during Level I and Level II fieldwork, and the Experiential Preceptorship.

Purpose: Fieldwork and preceptorship sites do not provide health services to the student in the event of injury or illness. The student is required to carry personal health insurance to provide for any needed health services.

Procedure: A copy of the student’s personal health insurance must be filed with the Department of Occupational Therapy (see Appendix G). Students verify that they are aware, that for the entire duration of the program, that they are responsible to cover payment for treatment and follow-up procedures related to bloodborne pathogens, other potentially infectious materials, and any illness or injury that could occur during class or clinical training. Visit hwww.studentaffairs.pitt.edu/shs/ and http://gradcare.hr.pitt.edu/ for health care insurance plans offered through the University. Students receive detailed instructions, including the due dates, for required documents. All required documents must be filed with the Department of Occupational Therapy (see Appendix F).    

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Policy:  Students must request a criminal record check, child abuse history clearance, and fingerprint-based background checks from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (Department of Human Services and Department of Education). The criminal record check, child abuse history clearance and fingerprint-based background checks are completed annually in the program

Purpose: Fieldwork and preceptorship sites, particularly those sites that serve pediatric clients, may require proof that students do not have a previous criminal record or history of child abuse to protect their clients from potential harm and to ensure their safety.

Procedure: The student will complete the Criminal Record Check, Child Abuse History Clearance, and Fingerprint-Based Background Checks (Department of Human Services and Department of Education). Students receive detailed instructions, including the due dates, for required documents. All required documents must be filed with the Department of Occupational Therapy (see Appendix F).

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Policy: The University, through the Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI), requires all incoming new graduate and professional students to complete a Title IX/Sexual Misconduct training module.

Purpose: The University of Pittsburgh is committed to fostering an environment that is free from sexual misconduct, including Sexual Harassment, consistent with the University’s obligations under applicable law.  In support of that commitment, the University continues to take steps to increase awareness of such Sexual Harassment and eliminate its occurrence on campuses. 

Procedure: A copy of the student’s certificate of completion for the Sexual Misconduct & Title IX Overview Training module must be filed with the Department of Occupational Therapy. The student should also place a copy of the certificates in their Portfolio. Students receive detailed instructions, including the due dates, for required documents. All required documents must be filed with the Department of Occupational Therapy (see Appendix F).

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Policy: The School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (SHRS) requires all students to complete a new student survey, orientation to SHRS and a photo permission form.

Purpose: SHRS provides an Orientation for all incoming new graduate and professional students. The SHRS Orientation includes but is not limited to information and resources about SHRS, the Pittsburgh campus, safety guidelines, getting your Pitt ID, People Soft, social security cards, student billing, links for international students, other University offices, information technology and living in Pittsburgh.

Procedure: Students are required to review the information on the website and then complete the SHRS New Student Survey, Orientation Acknowledgement and Photo Permission Form. SHRS student services keeps a record of the form. Go to www.shrs.pitt.edu/current-students/orientation for instructions on completing the SHRS Orientation.

EMPLOYMENT OPTIONS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

F-1 and J-1 visa students can work on-campus (defined as: in a Pitt owned/leased building, paid by Pitt, and working for Pitt) up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and over 20 hours per week during official university breaks.

F-1 visa students may be eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT) authorization after being enrolled full-time in classes for one full academic year.  OPT is typically authorized for 12 months and the employment must be directly related to the major field of study as listed on the I-20.

J-1 visa students may be eligible for Academic Training (AT) authorization that may occur during the academic program or after graduation.  

For more information, please visit www.ois.pitt.edu or email ois@pitt.edu.  

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The Department of Occupational Therapy uses the Typhon Group System to provide a centralized method for students and faculty to support, track, and disseminate students’ learning experiences while at the University of Pittsburgh. The Typhon Group System has multiple uses for students including but not limited to tracking fieldwork experiences from site selection to onsite case management, development of an electronic Portfolio, scheduling, and accessing surveys, questionnaires, and program documents.  Students are required to use the Typhon Group System while enrolled in the OT program and have access to select aspects of the System for 5 years after graduation. Students receive information from the Department regarding the Typhon Group System to establish an account.

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The University is committed to providing equal opportunities in higher education to academically qualified students with disabilities. Students with disabilities will be integrated as completely as possible into the University experience. Visit www.drs.pitt.edu for more information.

Students with a disability who are or may be requesting an accommodation should contact both the Program Director and DRS, 140 William Pitt Union, 412-648-7890 or 412-383-7355 (TTY) as early as possible in the term. DRS will verify the disability and determine reasonable accommodations for the course.

Students with a disability that requires accommodations in the event of a building evacuation should e-mail the Office of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) at safety@ehs.pitt.edu to request the development of an individualized evacuation plan. A representative of this office will contact you for specific information. The student should also inform the Program Director of the request of accommodations for an evacuation.

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All correspondence between faculty and students must be conducted using University of Pittsburgh e-mail accounts. No personal e-mail accounts will be used. Therefore, students should ensure accessibility to their University e-mail account. Students are advised to check their e-mail at least daily throughout the curriculum for distribution of information, including terms when students are on Level II fieldwork and their Experiential Preceptorship. Students should contact the SHRS Information Technology Department at 412-383-6657 and/or the University Information Technology Department at 412-624-HELP (4357) for all questions and access issues related to their e-mail account.

 Students have access to a Pitt Print Station, PC Station and TV monitor, and Mobile Charging Station in the Student Lounge at Bridgeside Point I.

The SHRS maintains 2 computer labs in Forbes Tower that are only for use by the students of the school. The main Computer Lab is in Room 6048, Forbes Tower and includes workstations that are available to SHRS students for general use when class is not in session in the Lab. Students must present their Pitt ID to enter Forbes Tower. The Anthony and Filomena Pascasio Learning Resource Center (LRC) includes computer workstations, a copier, scanners, treatment tables, a quiet study area, anatomy models, and a self-service printing station. Visit www.shrs.pitt.edu/support/ for Lab hours and availability.

In addition to the SHRS Computer Lab, the University of Pittsburgh maintains 6 computing labs spread throughout the campus. Visit http://technology.pitt.edu/about-us/lab-locations-hours-and-equipment for more information on campus computing labs.

SHRS uses Pitt Self Service Student Printing. SHRS students can take advantage of their per term printing quota (equivalent to 900 sheets printed in black and white or 128 sheets printed in color) and can submit their print jobs and retrieve them from various locations on campus. The student print quota amounts are subject to change.

Wireless Internet access is available in the Department of Occupational Therapy at Bridgeside Point I and in Forbes Tower on the 4th, 5th, and 6th floors. The access is restricted to faculty, staff, and Pitt students.

Visit www.shrs.pitt.edu/support/ to obtain a complete list of SHRS Information Services including links to University resources.

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Students are members of the University community, and their safety is one of the University’s prime concerns. Please keep in mind that safety and crime prevention are shared responsibilities. Use common sense and good judgment and be watchful and alert. Never hesitate to ask for help. Become familiar with campus resources and use them to help ensure personal safety and contribute to the overall safety of every member of the university community.

The University’s Emergency Notification Service will be used to communicate through voice and text messages as deemed appropriate in the event of an emergency. All students are eligible to subscribe. The University does not charge a fee to subscribe to this service; however, subscribers are responsible for any per message fees from their mobile phone/device provider. Additionally, the University is able to send emergency e-mail simultaneously to all faculty, staff, and students and can make announcements over the public address systems in campus buildings. The Rave Guardian App is an optional companion safety feature of the Emergency Notification Service. The app leverages mobile technology to provide new options for contacting the Pitt Police. The app is available through the Pitt App Center, the Apple App Store, or Google Play.

Visit www.emergency.pitt.edu/ for more information on emergency preparedness.

For information on how to respond in an active killer situation please visit www.police.pitt.edu

For emergency situations in Bridgeside Point I . . .

1. Call 911. Give location: Bridgeside Point I, 100 Technology Drive, Suite 350, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Describe the incident.
2. Notify a Department of Occupational Therapy staff or faculty member. If emergency occurs during non-business hours, call 412-385-2626 (24-hr. messaging) and leave a message with your name, contact telephone number, and description of the incident.
3. The Department will notify Property Management (24-hour messaging), 412-385-2626.
4. If you smell smoke or see flames, please pull the fire alarm, dial 9-1-1 and follow all other steps below. 

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For evacuation of Bridgeside Point I . . .

• The building is equipped with a fire alarm system which when triggered, either by a pull station being manually pulled or by a smoke detector detecting smoke, the entire building a loud audio alarm will sound and visual strobe lights will flash.
• Should the fire alarm be triggered, please calmly proceed to the nearest stairwell, and exit the building.  The meeting place for each floor of BSP I is the parking area in front of the building by the sign noting evacuation area F, located by the corner of 2nd Avenue & Hot Metal Street. 
• Stairwell #2 located on the left side at the end of the hallway, where the restrooms are, is an external stairwell granting access outside. This is the location for those needing assistance out of the building are to wait for emergency personnel to arrive.
• Individuals needing assistance must complete the Persons Needing Special Assistance form from BSP management. This is for all types of assistance needed. Note: By completing this form, it allows faculty/staff in our department to be aware and the building management to be aware of who needs assistance. 
• Once your Department Administrator gets an “all clear” from either the City of Pittsburgh’s Fire Department or building management, you may re-enter the building.
• Please do not try to use the elevators in the event of a fire.  When an alarm is triggered, the elevators automatically return to the first floor and remain there until they are reset.
• Learn the location of the fire alarm pull stations and the posted EXIT routes for your location in BSP-I. The fire alarm pull stations are located in the building corridors.

Please do not try to use the elevators in the event of a fire.  When an alarm is triggered, the elevators automatically return to the first floor and remain there until they are reset.
Learn the location of the fire alarm pull stations and the posted EXIT routes for your location in BSP-I.  The fire alarm pull stations are located in the building corridors.

If you hear the fire alarm signal:

1. Verify that the strobe light on the fire alarm is going off on your floor.

2. Close the door behind you and evacuate the building by following the EXIT signs to the nearest stairwell or exit. 

Only use a fire extinguisher if the fire is small and you have been trained in the proper use of an extinguisher.
Do not reenter the building until the “all clear” signal is given by the Police, Fire Department or Building Management.

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The Lost and Found for Occupational Therapy is in the Student Lounge within Suite 350, Bridgeside Point I. Please notify the Department of Occupational Therapy Administrative Assistant of missing and found items.

It is important to notify all appropriate departments of information changes immediately. Failure to do so may result in the student not receiving important mailings.

Students must notify the Office of the University Registrar (220 Thackeray Hall), the SHRS Office of Student Services (Forbes Tower, Suite 4044), and the Department of Occupational Therapy of name, mailing address, permanent address, and telephone number changes. Any name change requires documentation (i.e., marriage license, birth certificate, court order, or divorce decree).

Upon enrollment in the program, students establish an account with Typhon Group System and submit information related to their permanent and current addresses, telephone numbers, and e-mail addresses. Students must maintain current information in the Typhon account and make updates as needed. Students must notify the Department of Occupational Therapy Administrative Assistant of any emergency information changes/updates.

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The Student Lounge in the Department of Occupational Therapy is a comfortable area open to OT students for gathering, studying, and relaxing between classes. The lounge is equipped with:

• Furniture (furniture is not to be removed from the student lounge)
• Appliances – refrigerator, microwaves, Keurig (do not use appliances in laboratories, apartments or faculty/staff lounge)
• Pitt Print Station
• PC Station and TV monitor (see instructions for use; do not remove remote, keyboard, or mouse from student lounge)
• Mobile Charging Station
• Whiteboard
• Bulletin Board (do not post any items on walls)
• Staplers, three hold punch, tape, and pencil sharpeners (when refills are needed please see Administrative Assistant Joyce Broadwick, jrb164@pitt.edu, 412-383-6620).
• Recycling bins. The recycling bin next to the printer is only for paper that is clean (white or colored printer paper, manilla folders and construction paper; do not place envelopes, notebooks, magazines, newspapers, treated or coated paper, cardboard, or anything with glue or binding). The mixed recycling bin near the bulletin board is for all other recycling. 

Students are to use the student lounge area for storage of food, meal preparation, obtaining water, or other needs. Supplies in the Employee Kitchenette are not for student use. Students are responsible for their own personal items. Shelves and coat hooks located in the hallway adjacent to the Student Lounge are for student use. The Lost and Found for Occupational Therapy is in Suite 350 – see Administrative Assistant (Joyce Broadwick, jrb164@pitt.edu, 412-383-6620).

General Rules:

• Be respectful of others and lounge area, furniture, and items.
• Be courteous and refrain from any activity that is disruptive (e.g., loud conversations, loud audio on electronic devices, etc.)
• Clean up after yourself, including the area and appliances (i.e., sink, counters, tables, microwaves, refrigerator, etc.)
• The classrooms (Riverside and City View) are available for use, including to eat lunch, when not reserved for class sessions or meetings.
• All appliances, except for those located in the student lounge, are for teaching purposes during class or laboratory sessions – use of ranges, refrigerators, microwaves, and washer/dryer in laboratories, apartments, and/or faculty/staff lounge is not permitted.
• Students are not to prop any suite doors open.
• Students are not permitted to provide access to Department of Occupational Therapy space to people not affiliated with the Department.
• Any and all equipment, supplies, and/or materials borrowed from classrooms, laboratories, apartments, and/or storage areas must be signed out. See the Borrowing Department of Occupational Therapy Materials below.

For special requests for use of space, please see your Program Director.

The Department of Occupational Therapy has a private room (Room 388) that students can use for prayer/meditation, to change clothes, and/or for lactation. The room should not be used as a study room or meeting room or for other purposes without prior approval. If you need to use the room and it is not available, please see Administrative Assistant (Joyce Broadwick, jrb164@pitt.edu, 412-383-6620).

Other available space dedicated for graduate and professional students:

            Graduate and Professional Student Lounge at William Pitt Union (5th floor)

            Dissertation Writing and Graduate Study Rooms (Hillman Library 401, 402, and 403) – visit www.library.pitt.edu/graduate-study-room for more information.

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Student mailboxes are located in the Student Lounge. Faculty mailboxes for student use are located in the Student Lounge.

Students receive an access badge which permits access to Bridgeside Point I and the Department of Occupational Therapy suite (3rd Floor). Access badges are distributed to students during Orientation. Access badges are electronic and should not be stored near a card with a magnetic strip (e.g., Pitt IDs have a magnetic strip) as this could deactivate the badge. Do not attempt to put a hole in the badge as doing so will damage the badge. Notify the Department of Occupational Therapy Administrative Assistant if an access badge is lost and damaged. Note: There is a $25 fee to replace a lost or damaged access badge (amount subject to change).

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Bridgeside Point I.  Students have 24/7 keycard access to the Student Lounge and academic spaces (classrooms/laboratories) in the Department of Occupational Therapy at Bridgeside Point I. Security is available at Bridgeside Point on weekdays from 7 am to 7 pm Monday - Friday. In the case of a forgotten badge during Security hours, the OTD student will need to show ID and sign in with the security guard at the main entrance. Smoking is not permitted anywhere inside the building or within 35 feet outside of any entrance. Report any issues with facilities to Joyce Broadwick, Administrative Assistant. For off-hours non-emergencies (lighting, heating, housekeeping), report facilities issues by emailing Administrative Assistant (Joyce Broadwick, jrb164@pitt.edu, 412-383-6620). For non-business hours emergencies (fire alarm sounding, major leak, no electrical service), report to Property Management at 412-385-2626. Also report issue to Vice Chair (Denise Chisholm, dchishol@pitt.edu; 412-383-6606).

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Bridgeside Point I is accessible by bus and shuttle services.

Bus: Port Authority of Allegheny County bus routes 56, 57, and 58 stop at Technology Drive. Visit  for more information.

Shuttle: Pitt shuttle transports to/from Oakland and Bridgeside Point. There are two shuttle routes – 40A Biotech Center (to/from Bridgeside Point I) and Bridgeside (to/from Bridgeside Point II (3 buildings from Bridgeside Point I). Visit www.pc.pitt.edu/buses-shuttles for more information and http://www.pittshuttle.com/ for routes and the shuttle tracker.

Parking. OT students are not permitted to park in the front or side parking lots at Bridgeside Point I. The front parking lot is for visitors only and unauthorized vehicles may be towed. There is an indoor parking garage further down Technology Drive across from Bridgeside Point II. Students can either pay the daily rate in the parking garage OR may purchase a monthly parking lease ($65 per month; amount subject to change). See the Department of Occupational Therapy Administrative Assistant for the form and instructions to obtain a monthly lease for the parking garage.

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As candidates of a professional doctoral degree, MS in OT and OTD students are invited to participate in the University and School (SHRS) ceremonies. These are academic ceremonies, and as such, academic regalia is required to participate. Per the University of Pittsburgh regalia colors, MS in OT students wear yellow hoods and OTD students wear teal hoods signifying rehabilitation.

The Book Center                                             www.pittuniversitystore.com/

412-648-1455

                                   

Career Development                                      www.studentaffairs.pitt.edu/cdpa/students/

412-648-7130                        

 

Counseling Center                                          www.studentaffairs.pitt.edu/cc/

412-648-7930

    Let’s Talk                                                     www.studentaffairs.pitt.edu/cc/lets-talk/

    Therapy Assistance Online (TAO)               http.studentaffairs.pitt.edu/cc/tao

    Virtual Wellness Workshops                       www.studentaffairs.pitt.edu/cc/virtual

 

Cool Pittsburgh                                               www.coolpgh.pitt.edu

 

Emergency Notification Service                     www.technology.pitt.edu/portal/emergency/emergency-notification.html

 

Information for Graduate Students                www.pitt.edu/~graduate/

 

Information Technology                                 www.technology.pitt.edu

412-624-HELP (4357) 

 

Off-Campus Living                                          www.ocl.pitt.edu/

412-624-6998                        

 

Office of Admissions                                          https://admissions.pitt.edu/

412-624-7488 (Option 1)

 

Office of Disability Resources and Services

412-648-7890             www.diversity.pitt.edu/disability-access/disability-resources-and-services

 

Office of Financial Aid                                     https://financialaid.pitt.edu/

412-624-7488 (Option 2)                              

                       

PittFund$ Me (Scholarship List)                     https://financialaid.pitt.edu/types-of-aid/scholarships/

 

Office of International Services                      www.ois.pitt.edu/

412-624-7120

 

Office of Veterans Services                             http://veterans.pitt.edu/

412-624-3213

 

Parking, Transportation, and Services            www.pts.pitt.edu

412-624-8612                        

 

Police Department                                          www.police.pitt.edu/

Campus Emergency 811 or 412-624-2121

 

Public Safety                                                   www.safety.pitt.edu/

412-648-SAFE (7233) 

 

Resolve Crisis Services                                   

888-796-8226             www.upmc.com/services/behavioral-health/resolve-crisis-services

 

SHRS Office of Student Services                     www.shrs.pitt.edu/current-students/orientation 

412-383-6554

 

SHRS Student Resources                                www.shrs.pitt.edu/current-students 

 

Student Emergency Assistance Fund             www.studentaffairs.pitt.edu/dean/student-emergency-assistance-fund/

 

Student Payment Center                                /www.bc.pitt.edu/students

412-624-7520                        

 

Student Health Service                                   www.studentaffairs.pitt.edu/shs/

412-383-1800                        

 

Graduate Studies – Student Services             www.provost.pitt.edu/students/graduate-studies

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The GPSA is the student government that represents the interests of all graduate and professional students at the University of Pittsburgh and serves as the umbrella organization for all of the graduate/professional school student governments. Our mission is to act as the voice of our constituents and to actively ensure that the concerns of these students are heard. Program and services offered by GPSA include annual funding for graduate and professional student organizations, travel grants to students presenting and/or attending conferences, free legal services, and sponsorship of additional activities. Visit http://www.pittgpsg.com/ for more information.

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The UPSOTA is a group of students who are interested in or are pursuing a degree in the field of occupational therapy. Members function to promote occupational therapy as a profession within Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas. UPSOTA members raise funds for activities such as attendance at state and national occupational therapy conferences, social events that enhance the students' educational experience, and community service events. Visit https://www.shrs.pitt.edu/current-students/student-groups for more information and http://www.shrs.pitt.edu/ot/students to learn more about our students.

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The COTAD is a non-profit, grassroots organization that operates as groups from across the United States working toward a common goal of promoting diversity and inclusion within the occupational therapy workforce and increasing the ability of occupational therapy practitioners to serve an increasingly diverse population. The University of Pittsburgh COTAD Chapter aims to promote diversity and community and empower students to be more comprehensive and effective clinicians. Visit https://www.shrs.pitt.edu/ot/students/coalition-occupational-therapy-adv... for more information.

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TranformOTive Justice (TJ) is a student-led organization designed to critically analyze the manifestations of systemic racism in our personal and professional lives. The organization aims to challenge the nation’s historical non-racist passivity with anti-racist activism. Visit https://www.shrs.pitt.edu/ot/students/transformotive-justice-tj for more information.

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The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) is the nationally recognized professional association of occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants, and students of occupational therapy. The AOTA advances the quality, availability, use, and support of occupational therapy through standard-setting, advocacy, education, and research on behalf of its members and the public. As a student member you are eligible to receive professional OT publications, reduced fees to the annual AOTA conference, and the opportunity to apply for scholarships offered by the American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF). Visit http://www.aota.org for more information.

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The POTA is the predominant organization within the Commonwealth that advocates for, serves, and represents the membership of Pennsylvania occupational therapy practitioners for the purpose of preserving and advancing the scope of practice, insuring access to occupational therapy services, and providing a forum for lifelong professional learning. As a student member you receive POTA’s newsletter PennPoint, reduced fees to the annual POTA conference, and the opportunity to apply for the POTA scholarship. Visit https://pota.site-ym.com/ for more information.

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The WFOT is the official international organization for the promotion of occupational therapy. WFOT supports the development, use and practice of occupational therapy worldwide, demonstrating its relevance and contribution to society. WFOT membership can be obtained through AOTA. Visit http://www.wfot.org for more information.

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