Cross-Cultural Experience
OT Cross-Cultural Experience Requirement
The occupational therapy department has initiated an cross-cultural experience requirement [pdf] for students entering the OTD and Master’s degree programs in occupational therapy. The cross-cultural experience is designed to immerse students in a culture distinct from their own, encouraging exploration of unique values, beliefs, and traditions. The primary goal is to deepen understanding of the social, political, economic, and cultural factors that affect occupational therapy practice/occupational routines both within and outside the United States.
Several types of cross-cultural experiences are available, including faculty-led study
abroad programs and service trips that can be completed during Winter or Summer sessions.
Many of the experiences include opportunities to engage with local people in the provision
of occupational therapy services. Most of the experiences are interdisciplinary, allowing
students to work and study with students and providers from a variety of healthcare
professions. Time abroad typically ranges from one to three weeks with assignments
completed prior to the trip and after returning. Students register for 1-6 units of
coursework for the cross-cultural experience. The Winter and Summer 2025 schedule includes cross-cultural experience in Finland, Vietnam and Taiwan.
FINLAND:
Start: May 24, 2026
End: June 5, 2026
VIETNAM:
Start: June 14, 2026
End: June 28, 2026
TAIWAN (TBD):
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