Davenport University’s Occupational Therapy program: hands-on, community-focused

This is one of a series of articles during April, Occupational Therapy Month

April marks Occupational Therapy Month, a time to recognize the life-changing impact occupational therapists make in the lives of individuals, families, and communities. This year, the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) chose the theme, “Occupational Therapy: Inspiring Hope, Changing Lives.” The organization says they believe it reflects the heart of the profession. A commitment that’s evident in Davenport University’s Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) program. It’s about more than earning a degree. Students experience a hands-on, community-focused journey that combines academic excellence with meaningful connections and career preparation.

Finding the right fit

There are many choices for students interested in pursuing their MSOT degree, but students who choose Davenport University are looking for something more than just a degree. They want a sense of community and professors dedicated to giving individualized support.

For Melissa Wanink, choosing Davenport was about belonging. “I liked Davenport because it was such a small campus, and being from a smaller area, everybody just felt so welcoming,” said Wanink. “Our cohort has 15 students, and we’re all so close and interconnected. We push each other and show up for each other — always.”

That sense of closeness drew Grace Boeve back to West Michigan after completing her undergraduate degree in New York. “Davenport just seemed like the best option for me,” said Boeve. “The program is streamlined, and I really liked how they had their classes and fieldwork structured. Touring the campus, I just knew it was a good fit.”

The MSOT program is designed for consistency. Autumn Ludwig says the fact that students work alongside the same professors throughout the program is what made her choose Davenport for her MSOT degree. “I love that we’ve had the same professors, because they really get to know us,” Ludwig added.

And because class sizes are small, Davenport students like Ludwig are able to build strong relationships with their professors. “You get so much one-on-one time,” said Ludwig. “I’ve built a strong rapport with my professors, and I feel very comfortable asking for feedback or support, which I wouldn’t have in a larger setting.”

The MSOT program empowers students with real-world skills and the flexibility to shape their career path.

Hands-on learning from day one

The MSOT curriculum centers on practical, real-world experience. Students have a unique opportunity to learn in an on-campus lab that simulates a real house with a family room, bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and even a car to simulate the many scenarios an Occupational Therapist will encounter when working with patients. It provides a realistic environment for students to practice critical occupational therapy skills.

These lab settings are designed for small group learning, allowing for detailed instruction and hands-on feedback from faculty who are still actively practicing in the field. They also prepare students for their fieldwork. “A big part for me was the fieldwork.” Wanink likes that Davenport strives to put you in the clinical placements you desire, “Other universities don’t always give you that choice. You could end up in Wisconsin when you wanted to stay in Michigan.”

Wanink’s clinical placements reflect the variety available to MSOT students: from Camp Sunshine, an inclusive arts center for individuals with developmental disabilities, to Pine Rest’s substance abuse unit and HealthBridge subacute rehab. Her upcoming roles include outpatient pediatrics at Mary Free Bed and a rotating hospital placement, with exposure to departments from ICU to outpatient care. “We’ve been all over the place, and that’s been really helpful,” she said. “Other programs segment students into one area, but here everything is intertwined — we’re learning about peds, neuro, and geriatrics all at once.”

Choosing a Career That Changes Lives

The U.S. demand for occupational therapists is expected to grow by 12% over the next decade, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That makes Davenport’s MSOT program not just a smart choice, but a timely one.

“If someone asked me why they should come to Davenport,” Wanink said, “I’d tell them it’s the sense of community. You’re not just a number. You’re supported in every way — personally and professionally.”

As Wanink prepares to graduate this spring, her advice to future students is simple: “You’ll grow here as a person, a classmate, and a future Occupational Therapist.”

For more information on Davenport University’s MSOT program, visit davenport.edu/msot.