Capstone experience & project

One of the last steps in obtaining your NAU Occupational Therapy degree

During the final semester of the program, students complete a 14-week Capstone experience & project. The Capstone is an integral part of the program’s curriculum design which includes an in-depth learning experience that is designed to develop students into practice-scholars. Students begin the Capstone following successful completion of all coursework and both Level II Fieldwork rotations.

Students choose the focus of their Capstone

This student-driven capstone can be completed in a variety of settings and typically contains multiple focus areas such as:

• Clinical skills
• Research skills
• Program development and evaluation
• Policy development
• Education
• Advocacy
• Administration

Working with a mentor

One year prior to starting the Capstone, students contact potential mentors during the capstone planning course. A mentor is an individual who possesses the expertise in the student’s chosen focus area and does not have to be an occupational therapy practitioner. Mentoring a capstone student is a collaborative process where the mentor supports the student in achieving mutually agreed upon learning objectives and shared project goals. Capstone objectives and goals are unique to each student/mentor collaboration and are created during the planning process.

Capstone mentors share their stories highlighting the transformative impact and invaluable contributions that can be achieved by collaborating with an NAU OTD Capstone Student.