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M-O-T in Community Based Rehabilitation at SRM Institute of Science and Technology
Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Community Based Rehabilitation at SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chengalpattu?
This Community Based Rehabilitation (CBR) program at SRM Institute of Science and Technology focuses on empowering individuals with disabilities and their families within their own communities. It addresses the unique challenges and opportunities for rehabilitation in India, emphasizing sustainable, culturally sensitive, and inclusive practices. The program differentiates itself by integrating academic rigor with extensive fieldwork, preparing professionals to bridge the gap between institutional care and community needs in the Indian context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (BOT) graduates who are passionate about social justice and inclusive development. It caters to fresh graduates seeking entry into the specialized field of community-based practice, as well as working professionals (occupational therapists, physiotherapists, social workers) looking to upskill and transition into community health leadership roles. Individuals with a strong commitment to rural and urban underserved populations in India would find this specialization particularly rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse and impactful career paths across India, including roles in NGOs, government health programs (like NHM), district disability rehabilitation centers (DDRCs), and starting their own community clinics. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing to INR 6-10+ LPA with experience in leadership or specialized consulting. Graduates contribute significantly to implementing national disability policies, driving inclusive development, and advocating for persons with disabilities, aligning with India''''s commitment to the UNCRPD.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Foundational Research & Clinical Reasoning- (Semester 1)
Immerse yourself in ''''Research Methodology and Biostatistics'''' and ''''Occupational Therapy Theoretical Base''''. Form study groups to deconstruct research papers and clinical case studies relevant to Indian contexts. Actively participate in seminars to hone presentation and critical analysis skills.
Tools & Resources
SRMIST library access, academic databases (PubMed, Google Scholar), statistical software (e.g., Excel for basics), departmental seminars
Career Connection
Establishes a strong analytical base vital for evidence-based practice and effective problem-solving in any Indian healthcare or community setting.
Develop Advanced Core OT Skills- (Semester 1)
Focus on mastering the theoretical aspects of ''''Advanced Human Kinesiology and Ergonomics'''' and ''''Basic Neurosciences''''. Relate classroom learning to your ''''Clinical Specialty Posting I'''' observations, seeking to understand the biomechanical and neurological underpinnings of patient conditions.
Tools & Resources
Anatomy apps/models, biomechanics software (if accessible), clinical observation guides, peer discussions
Career Connection
Deep understanding of advanced human function is critical for specialized assessment and intervention design, enhancing your value in Indian rehabilitation teams.
Initiate Professional Networking Early- (Semester 1)
Attend departmental guest lectures, workshops, and conferences relevant to Occupational Therapy in India. Connect with faculty, senior students, and visiting professionals. Join professional OT associations (e.g., AIOTA - All India Occupational Therapists'''' Association) to stay updated on national trends and opportunities.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, professional association websites, university event calendars, faculty office hours
Career Connection
Early networking can open doors to mentorship, internship opportunities, and future job prospects within India''''s growing rehabilitation sector.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Intensive Clinical & Community Exposure- (Semester 2-3)
Leverage ''''Clinical Specialty Posting II & III'''' to apply advanced OT principles across physical, pediatric, and mental health settings, transitioning into community-based observations. Proactively seek opportunities to observe and assist in interventions, particularly those relevant to Indian socio-cultural contexts. Document all observations and learning points meticulously.
Tools & Resources
Clinical logbooks, case study templates, standardized assessment protocols, field diaries
Career Connection
Hands-on exposure builds practical competence and clinical reasoning, making you a more effective and adaptable therapist in diverse Indian practice environments.
Master CBR Program Design & Implementation- (Semester 3)
Deeply engage with ''''CBR: Principles and Practices'''' and ''''CBR: Program Planning and Evaluation''''. Identify a specific community health issue in India and, perhaps as part of a group project, develop a detailed proposal for a CBR intervention, including budget, resource mobilization, and evaluation strategies relevant to local conditions.
Tools & Resources
Public health reports, local government data, NGO project templates, community survey tools
Career Connection
This skill is highly sought after by NGOs, governmental bodies, and funding agencies operating in India for designing impactful community development projects.
Accelerate Dissertation Research & Analysis- (Semester 2-3)
Actively work on ''''Dissertation – Phase I''''. Finalize your research question, refine your methodology, and begin data collection. For CBR-focused research, ensure ethical considerations are paramount, especially when working with vulnerable populations in India. Seek regular feedback from your supervisor.
Tools & Resources
Data collection apps/forms, statistical software (SPSS/R), university ethics committee guidelines, peer review
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation enhances your analytical skills and positions you as a contributor to the body of knowledge in Indian rehabilitation, opening doors to research or advanced practice roles.
Advanced Stage
Develop Advocacy & Policy Expertise- (Semester 4)
Focus on ''''CBR: Advocacy and Policy''''. Analyze current Indian disability policies (e.g., RPWD Act) and international conventions (CRPD). Participate in advocacy workshops or mock policy debates. Consider volunteering with local disability rights groups or NGOs to gain practical experience in advocacy within the Indian legal framework.
Tools & Resources
Government gazettes, UNCRPD documents, disability rights organizations'''' publications, policy analysis frameworks
Career Connection
Essential for leadership roles in NGOs, government bodies, and international agencies, enabling you to influence change and ensure inclusive practices in India.
Cultivate Entrepreneurial & Sustainable Practice Skills- (Semester 4)
Leverage ''''CBR: Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Development''''. Explore models of social entrepreneurship in India. Develop a business plan for a community-based OT service or product, considering local needs, resource constraints, and potential funding avenues (e.g., government grants, microfinance).
Tools & Resources
Business plan templates, case studies of Indian social enterprises, workshops on entrepreneurship/startup funding, mentors from the social sector
Career Connection
Empowers you to create your own practice or lead innovative projects, addressing unmet needs in rural or underserved urban communities across India.
Finalize Dissertation & Placement Preparation- (Semester 4)
Conclude ''''Dissertation – Phase II'''' with rigorous data analysis, thesis writing, and preparation for your viva-voce. Simultaneously, actively engage in placement workshops, mock interviews, and resume building sessions. Network with alumni and placement cell representatives to identify suitable career opportunities in India.
Tools & Resources
Thesis writing guides, presentation software, career counseling services, professional networking platforms, alumni database
Career Connection
A strong dissertation and effective placement preparation are key to securing desired roles in leading rehabilitation centers, NGOs, or government organizations in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (B.O.T) degree from an institution approved by RCI and recognized by SRMIST with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks.
Duration: 2 years / 4 semesters
Credits: 81 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MOT21C101 | Research Methodology and Biostatistics in Occupational Therapy | Core | 4 | Introduction to Research, Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Biostatistics Fundamentals, Ethical Considerations in Research |
| MOT21C102 | Basic Neurosciences and Higher Mental Functions for Occupational Therapy | Core | 4 | Functional Neuroanatomy, Motor Control and Learning, Sensory Systems, Cognitive Functions, Perceptual Functions, Neuropsychological Assessment |
| MOT21C103 | Advanced Human Kinesiology and Ergonomics for Occupational Therapy | Core | 4 | Advanced Biomechanics, Joint Kinematics and Kinetics, Muscle Physiology, Postural Control, Ergonomics Principles, Workstation Design |
| MOT21C104 | Occupational Therapy Theoretical Base and Intervention Model | Core | 4 | Occupational Therapy Theories, Models of Practice, Frames of Reference, Professional Ethics, Evidence-Based Practice, Therapeutic Reasoning |
| MOT21C105 | Seminar | Practical | 1 | Presentation Skills, Literature Review, Critical Analysis, Scientific Communication |
| MOT21C106 | Clinical Specialty Posting I | Practical | 4 | Clinical Observation, Case Study, Patient Assessment, Intervention Planning, Documentation |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MOT21C201 | Advanced Occupational Therapy Management of Physical Dysfunction | Core | 4 | Assessment of Physical Dysfunction, Intervention Strategies (Upper Extremity, Lower Extremity), Adaptive Equipment, Assistive Technology, Splinting and Orthotics, Rehabilitation Principles |
| MOT21C202 | Advanced Occupational Therapy Management of Pediatric Disorders | Core | 4 | Pediatric Development, Assessment of Pediatric Conditions, Early Intervention, Sensory Integration, Neurodevelopmental Treatment, Play-Based Therapy |
| MOT21C203 | Advanced Occupational Therapy in Mental Health | Core | 4 | Mental Health Disorders, Psychosocial Assessment, Group Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Vocational Rehabilitation, Community Mental Health |
| MOT21C204 | Clinical Specialty Posting II | Practical | 4 | Advanced Clinical Skills, Case Management, Interdisciplinary Collaboration, Outcome Measurement |
| MOT21C205 | Dissertation – Phase I | Project | 4 | Research Question Formulation, Literature Search, Methodology Design, Data Collection Planning, Ethical Approval Process |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MOT21CR301 | CBR: Principles and Practices | Core | 4 | Introduction to CBR, CBR Components (Health, Education, Livelihood, Social, Empowerment), Community Participation, Disability and Development, CBR Models and Frameworks, Policy and Legislation in CBR |
| MOT21CR302 | CBR: Program Planning and Evaluation | Core | 4 | Community Needs Assessment, Program Design, Implementation Strategies, Monitoring and Evaluation, Impact Assessment, Documentation and Reporting |
| MOT21CR303 | Clinical Specialty Posting III (CBR) | Practical | 4 | Community Assessment, Home-based Rehabilitation, Fieldwork Experience, Program Implementation, Data Collection in Community Settings |
| MOT21E003 | Vocational Rehabilitation | Elective | 4 | Principles of Vocational Rehabilitation, Vocational Assessment, Job Analysis and Placement, Work hardening and conditioning, Return to work strategies, Legislation and Policies in VR |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MOT21CR401 | CBR: Advocacy and Policy | Core | 4 | Human Rights and Disability, Advocacy Strategies, Policy Formulation, Legislative Frameworks (e.g., RPWD Act in India), International Conventions (CRPD), Role of NGOs in Advocacy |
| MOT21CR402 | CBR: Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Development | Core | 4 | Entrepreneurial Skills for OTs, Microfinance and Livelihood, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Resource Mobilization, Social Entrepreneurship, Community-based Enterprises |
| MOT21CR403 | Clinical Specialty Posting IV (CBR) | Practical | 4 | Advanced Community Placements, Project Implementation, Mentorship, Leadership in CBR, Dissemination of Results |
| MOT21D401 | Dissertation – Phase II | Project | 16 | Data Collection, Data Analysis, Thesis Writing, Presentation of Findings, Viva Voce, Publication Strategies |
