The mission of the occupational therapy program is consistent with the mission of Nazareth College and the School of Health and Human Services in that it will develop successful occupational therapy practitioners, beginning researchers, and future leaders who are advocates of the profession. Its graduates will have a strong sense of interdisciplinary teamwork and service to others.  Students will be prepared to provide and engage in evidence based practice and research that values the occupation of individuals in diverse environments and cultures.

The philosophy of the Nazareth College Occupational Therapy program is consistent with the American Occupational Therapy Association's philosophical base. It will prepare its students to learn and think critically about the importance of maintaining and improving the ability of individuals, communities, and populations to participate in meaningful activities and tasks in everyday living that are of unique value to the person within his or her environmental context and culture. 

Consistent with the belief that individuals learn best through active interactions with their environment, the program will integrate evidence based inter-professional service learning and fieldwork experiences into the curriculum.  It will prepare students to be reflective, ethical, and professional practitioners, as well as beginning researchers and advocates of the profession.

The general educational objectives for students are consistent with the occupational therapy program’s curriculum and themes that are intended to bridge the student’s knowledge throughout the program. Graduates of Nazareth's occupational therapy program will be able to:

1. Critically analyze the impact of biological, psychological, and social factors on occupational performance;
2. Recognize and integrate the occupational needs of all individuals across the life span within the context of their community in a culturally responsive manner;
3. Demonstrate the ability to use professional and clinical reasoning for evaluation and intervention of occupational performance with individuals and groups;
4. Participate in the research process, effectively critique research and incorporate evidence based practice;
5. Demonstrate effective inter-professional collaboration in a responsive and responsible manner to support a team approach;
6. Demonstrate a commitment to community engagement and service, addressing the needs of the local, national, and international community;
7. Value the unique perspectives of consumers of occupational therapy services, embrace their collaboration in client centered intervention planning, and empower them to make informed decisions.