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 16-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, both Level II Fieldwork rotations, and after passing a competency assessment established by the Occupational Therapy Department.
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 practice skills
- Research skills
- Leadership
- Program development
- Education
- Advocacy
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.