Department of Occupational Therapy and Occupational Science

Student Handbook 2011-2012

IV. Department Information: General Operation

D. Student Advising Guidelines

The Department of Occupational Therapy and Occupational Science values the process of advising as a means of professional development of students preparing for careers in Occupational Therapy. Recognizing the high demands and expectations of the program, the advising process is designed to assist the student toward academic success.

Every student accepted into the Occupational Therapy degree programs will be assigned a faculty adviser. The key role of the adviser is to assist the student in meeting the major requirements of the program in which he or she is enrolled, and serving to counsel the student regarding departmental policies, procedures, and operations. This may include scheduling and registration of classes in the major, meeting Towson University requirements for completion of both the Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, developing an alternate plan of study when necessary, directing the student in grievance or appeal procedures, and counseling about personal matters that are directly related to the academic demands of the program.

Specific adviser responsibilities related to student performance include the following:
• Regular communication regarding Department policies and procedures
• Scheduling classes each semester
• At least one individual meeting with each student annually, to ensure academic progress toward both major and university degree requirements
• Attendance and participation in Town Meetings
• Review of Professional Development Forms as warranted
• Maintenance of student records within the department, which includes demographic data, relevant communication, fieldwork evaluation forms, Professional Development Forms, and copies of any exceptions or letters regarding the academic plan of study.

If a student wishes to decline a meeting that has been requested by the advisor, the following statement will be issued to the student via e-mail or in writing, to have a record that this is the student’s intent. Students can sign this statement if issued in writing or simply respond their agreement in an e-mail. “I have been offered individualized, face-to-face advising by my designated faculty member. I choose to defer this meeting and agree to address my advising needs via alternative communication, such as e-mail or telephone.” A copy of this statement is kept in the student’s advising folder.