Occupational Therapy Doctorate | Hybrid learning option
Northern Arizona University (NAU) offers students the opportunity to earn their Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) degree through a hybrid, full-time learning option. This cohort-based hybrid option delivers lectures asynchronously and remotely. This is in combination with in-person labs that are scheduled during the weekend (Friday, Saturday, & Sunday) 8 times each semester. The program is housed at the state-of-the-art Phoenix Bioscience Core (PBC) campus. One cohort of up to 30 students is admitted to the hybrid OTD program each year.
Philosophy: NAU OT values our students’ selection of a hybrid learning cohort. We understand that our students value accessibility by being able to access the curriculum from their home learning environment as students in the hybrid program may live outside of Maricopa County. Hybrid students value flexibility, participation in synchronous weekends, community experiential learning opportunities, and the same exceptional curriculum as the in-person option. Hybrid students are self-determined learners and problem solvers. Therefore, the hybrid cohort uses blended and online modes of instruction.
Hybrid learning option modes of instruction
The hybrid learning option includes courses designated as either blended learning or online.
Blended Learning mode of instruction
Blended courses in the hybrid option include lectures delivered asynchronously and remotely. Pre-recorded lectures, readings, and assignments accessible at any time. Ideal for flexibility and self-paced learning. This is in combination with in-class content that is scheduled during the weekend (Friday, Saturday, & Sunday) 8 times each semester. Asynchronous learning is enhanced by the use of technology enabling flexible, personalized, and accessible education.
All blended learning content will be paired with in person content, and rationale will be included. Clear expectations of time and course connection will be provided. All courses with a lecture and lab will be provided in a blended format with hands-on instruction during synchronous weekends.
Online Mode of Instruction
Online courses in the hybrid option are delivered via the Internet. Students access course materials, participate in discussions, and complete assignments online. They may include synchronous (real time) content, which requires completion at a specific time, for example, in person meetings, proctored exams and/or simultaneous online discussions, etc. It allows learners to access coursework, lectures, and assessments remotely, often using a combination of digital tools and platforms.
The hybrid learning option and the in person learning option share a common mission and curriculum. Both learning options also share the same prerequisites, admission requirements, academic calendar, length of program, number of credits, and policies.