Dr. Neil Penny is current professor of occupational therapy and former chair of the Occupational Therapy Department. The program prepares students for roles in traditional settings and newly emerging areas of need. The program’s evidence-based, occupation-focused and client-centered approach combines challenging coursework, diverse clinical placements and the opportunity to collaborate with faculty who are leaders in their fields.
Responses have been edited for length and clarity.
You started at Alvernia back in 1999. What makes this university such a special place to be?
I really believe the people and the values of the university and the values of our profession of occupational therapy really make this a special place for people to work and to study.
You led the successful re-accreditation of the program. How important is it for a program to be accredited
Accreditation really is needed so that the students can take their licensing exam. What accreditation means is that the programs and the offerings here at Â鶹ÊÓƵ are the same as offerings at any university that offers occupational therapy. But it basically means that we provide a high standard of education and meet all of the accreditation requirements.
And what does that mean for the students?
Students can be confident that what they're learning here is current and accurate.
What are some of the highlights of the master's in occupational therapy program?
I think it has to do with the length. Although it is a longer program, it allows students to really go into depth and learn the material without having to rush through it and feel like they might not be getting all of the information that they need.
And what encouragement would you give to adults who may have very busy lives and aren't sure if they're ready to continue their education?
Well, I always tell adult students, take the first step. It goes a lot quicker once you start. So take the first step. Enroll in your first class, and before you know it, you'll be finished.
