Occupational Therapy Doctorate Program
Connecting the new Occupational Therapy Doctorate Program at UA/UAMS to Facebook!
06/10/2026
As we prepare for our Creative Arts Intervention course, these herbs will take center stage in our exploration of innovative strategies for integrating nature into Occupational Therapy.
Our PY2s had fun practicing automaticity using the Cupid Shuffle during Dr. Huxโs motor learning lab! ๐๐ Professor Meyer even dropped in because the PY1s thought we were having too much fun in the classroom next door. ๐
Behind the dance, this session bridged instructional design and motor learning theories with real-time clinical practice:
๐ง Cognitive Load & Motor Stages
We observed how easily a learner drops from the autonomous back into the associative stage of motor learning. Students experienced how task constraints spike cognitive load, forcing the brain from "muscle memory" back into conscious overthinking.
๐ฅ Social Cognitive Theory & Self-Regulation
Instead of a traditional lecture, we used peer-to-peer modeling. This minimized performance anxiety and boosted student self-efficacy, providing the self-regulation needed to successfully execute the motor program.
Transforming abstract learning theories into dynamic clinical applications is like dancing !
06/08/2026
This morning, the UA/ UAMS OTD Program had the privilege of inspiring 21 MASH students to explore the dynamic field of Occupational Therapy.
06/05/2026
Our clinical community partner is hiring. If you're looking for a position in pediatric therapy, here's an opportunity!
06/04/2026
It's official: 100% of our year 2 students are certified in Mental Health First Aid! We're beaming with pride, and our very own Dr. Johnny Rider is the certified instructor who made it all happen.
05/08/2026
As we reflect on Spring 2026, weโre incredibly inspired by the remarkable achievements of UA/UAMS students and faculty. From outstanding student recognition, maintaining our US News ranking as the #1 OT Program in AR ( #59 Nationally, up 36 spots since 2024), numerous publications, national presentations, and a multitude of impactful service and learning, weโre surrounded by excellence that mOTivates us to strive for even greater heights. We wish our students a wonderful break and eagerly anticipate your return on May 26! Enjoy these memories from Spring 2026!!
05/01/2026
Classroom? Not today! Our first-year OTD students wrapped up Quest for Wellness at Blowing Springs Park alongside ReWild the Child of NWA: hiking, exploring, and reflecting on how nature-based experiences can support well-being across diverse lives. From sensory experiences on the trail to conversations about accessibility and adaptation, this crew brought their OT lens into the great outdoors. We love ending the semester like this!
04/26/2026
AOTA Inspire 2026.
UA/UAMS OTD Faculty & Students inspired others and were inspired. Faculty & students represented our program in 1 pre-conference institute, 2 courses, and 5 posters.
04/25/2026
Today, our very own Shaina Meyer, presented on the work she & the interprofessional team does in the UAMS long COVID clinic.
04/24/2026
OTD Faculty & Students are on the move in Anaheim! Meaningful learning, connection, and sharing are happening!
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Address
Fayetteville, AR
72701
Opening Hours
| Monday | 7:30am - 5pm |
| Tuesday | 7:30am - 5pm |
| Wednesday | 7:30am - 5pm |
| Thursday | 7:30am - 5pm |
| Friday | 8am - 4pm |