Occupational Therapy Doctorate Program

It's official: 100% of our year 2 students are certified in Mental Health First Aid! We're beaming with pride, and our very own Dr. Johnny Rider is the certified instructor who made it all happen.

As we reflect on Spring 2026, we’re incredibly inspired by the remarkable achievements of UA/UAMS students and faculty. From outstanding student recognition, maintaining our US News ranking as the #1 OT Program in AR ( #59 Nationally, up 36 spots since 2024), numerous publications, national presentations, and a multitude of impactful service and learning, we’re surrounded by excellence that mOTivates us to strive for even greater heights. We wish our students a wonderful break and eagerly anticipate your return on May 26! Enjoy these memories from Spring 2026!!

Classroom? Not today! Our first-year OTD students wrapped up Quest for Wellness at Blowing Springs Park alongside ReWild the Child of NWA: hiking, exploring, and reflecting on how nature-based experiences can support well-being across diverse lives. From sensory experiences on the trail to conversations about accessibility and adaptation, this crew brought their OT lens into the great outdoors. We love ending the semester like this!

AOTA Inspire 2026.
UA/UAMS OTD Faculty & Students inspired others and were inspired. Faculty & students represented our program in 1 pre-conference institute, 2 courses, and 5 posters.

Today, our very own Shaina Meyer, presented on the work she & the interprofessional team does in the UAMS long COVID clinic.

OTD Faculty & Students are on the move in Anaheim! Meaningful learning, connection, and sharing are happening!

Congratulations to Kayla Lugo for being recognized by the College of Education and Health Professions as the 2026 OTD Outstanding Student!

Our very own, Dr. Glenda Hux, OTD, assistant professor presented parent‑caregiver research during an invited, CME‑accredited Grand Rounds with the Pediatric Neuroscience Department at Arkansas Children's. The presentation highlighted occupational therapy–led, translational scholarship emerging from the strategic UAMS/UA partnership, demonstrating impact on interprofessional, family‑centered pediatric neuroscience care.

Our Year 2 students were paired with faculty mentors and project areas in preparation to begin the development of their Doctoral Capstone proposals this summer.

Our PY1's couldn't resist the beautiful spring weather, so we had Research 1 outside today at the park. 🙂