Union MOT Bridge Program

Merry Christmas from Union's OTA & MOT Programs!

Occupational Therapy at Christmas means...

-Helping people find meaning, participation, and joy in the moments that matter most

-Supporting engagement in cherished traditions like decorating the tree, wrapping gifts, sharing meals, and making memories

-Seeing the magic in the mundane—honoring independence and dignity in everyday tasks, from getting dressed to setting the table

-Ensuring that every person can participate in the season, experiencing life that is active, meaningful, and whole.

And they're off....! 🛫

Our inaugural cohort of the MOT Bridge Program has officially completed the didactic phase of the program!

Over the past four semesters, these students have built OT knowledge and skills, strengthened their clinical reasoning and leadership, completed 8 on-site learning experiences, developed a community-based program, completed an evidence-based knowledge translation project, created a professional portfolio, and so much more!

As current OTAs with a strong foundation in patient care, and now advanced academic preparation through the MOT Bridge Program, this cohort is more than ready to hit the ground running as they begin Level II fieldwork next semester.

We are incredibly proud of their hard work and can’t wait to see the meaningful impact they will continue to make on their future clients—and on the occupational therapy profession. 💙

Nebraska Occupational Therapt Association

📢 NOTA 2026 Conference – Call for Papers & Posters!
📅 Saturday, April 18, 2026
📍 Regional Engagement Center – Kearney, NE

We’re excited to announce that submissions are now open for keynote presentations, course sessions, and posters for the upcoming NOTA 2026 Conference!

✅ Submission Deadline: January 15, 2026
Don’t miss your chance to share your expertise and insights with peers in the field.
👉 Visit notaonline.org under the Conference tab or click here to submit your topic today!

Home Our state OT's are promoting health, helping prevent injuries, and encouraging those to live life to the fullest who have sustained injuries, illnesses, or disabilities.

Union OTA and MOT Bridge Program students wrapped up a truly unique experiential intraprofessional learning project this semester!

Working in collaborative OTA/MOT teams, students from both programs stepped into authentic professional roles while partnering with volunteer stroke survivors. MOT students led evaluations, intervention planning, and home program recommendations, while OTA students delivered treatment sessions throughout the semester.

This immersive model strengthened students’ skills in client-centered care, documentation, and coordinated OT/OTA collaboration.

Volunteer clients generously shared their lived experiences, enriching student learning while receiving meaningful therapy services. All volunteers shared positive feedback about the experience, expressing sincere appreciation for the the new ideas and treatment strategies the students shared, as well as the opportunity to contribute to the development of future clinicians.

Students also highlighted this project as one of their most impactful learning experiences of the semester! It will provide a valuable foundation as they prepare for their upcoming Level II Fieldworks next semester.

In this season of gratitude, we are especially thankful for the volunteers whose partnership made this impactful learning experience possible for our students. 🍂💛

What’s the difference between an OT and an OTA?
Both work together to help people live fuller, more independent lives, but their roles are a little different. OTs lead the evaluation and treatment planning, while OTAs carry out interventions and support clients through the hands-on work. Different roles, same shared mission: empowering everyday living.

Are you interested in learning more about our Bridge Program?

Considering pursuing graduate school but not sure where to start?

Overwhelmed by the application process?

Sign up for our virtual office hours! We would love to assist you in the pursuit of your next academic and career goals!

Happy World OT Day! Do what you love and love what you do!

💜💙💜💙💜💙

FAQ: What is a Bridge Program and how is it different from a Traditional MOT program? 🧐

Great question—we get this one a lot!

✨ Are you a COTA ready to bridge to the next level?
Don’t miss your chance to join this outstanding program and take the next step in your career! ✨

📌 Early Bird Registration closes November 1st – secure your spot today!