HISTORY OF OT AT KEAN

As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of the KU Occupational Therapy Program, we look back at our history:

In 1855 Kean University, formally known as Kean College, was established in Newark, New Jersey.

In 1958 the college formally moved to Union, New Jersey.

The first occupational therapy class was admitted into the program in 1976.

At the time, students could earn a bachelors of science or certificate in occupational therapy. The program received initial accreditation in 1979.

Just six years later, in 1985, the occupational therapy program was granted departmental status in the School of Natural Sciences, Nursing and Mathematics.

In 1997 Kean College was granted university status and became known as Kean University. The first graduate class in occupational therapy was admitted in 1998.

The last undergraduate class was admitted into the professional phase of the program in 2002 as we moved to entry-level graduate education.

The BA/MS dual degree option in occupational therapy was developed in 2003 for Kean University freshmen to complete their education in 5 years time.

In 2007, the program celebrated the 30th anniversary of their first graduating class!

Timeline of Department Chairpersons:

1976
Dr. Beverly Bain
Dr. Paula Kramer
Dr. Karen Stern
Professor Lynne Richard
Dr. Laurie Knis-Matthews
2008