Elizabeth June Yerxa EdD, LHD (Hon.), DSc (Hon.), DMed (Hon.), OTR, FAOTA

Professor Emeritus of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy

Biography

Highly regarded for her contributions to the philosophical base and values of occupational therapy, for her research on life satisfaction of people living with severe disabilities and the nature and management of time, as well as for her work initiating and advocating occupational science research. In 1966, Dr. Yerxa was awarded occupational therapy’s highest academic honor, the Eleanor Clarke Slagle Award, and delivered her Slagle Lecture entitled “Authentic Occupational Therapy.” She was named an AOTA Fellow in 1973, and received the AOTA Award of Merit, the highest award from the association, in 1987. Since 2003 she has been a Professor Emeritus at USC.

Education

Doctorate of Education (EdD) in Educational Psychology
1971 | Boston University

Master of Education (MEd) in Educational Psychology
1968 | Boston University

Master of Arts (MA) in Occupational Therapy
1953 | University of Southern California

Bachelor of Science (BS) in Occupational Therapy
1952 | University of Southern California

Publications

1990

Journal Articles

Yerxa, E., Clark, F. A., Frank, G., Jackson, J. M., Parham, D., Pierce, D., Stein, C., & Zemke, R. (1990). An introduction to occupational science: A foundation for occupational therapy in the 21st century. Occupational Therapy in Health Care, 6(4), 1-17. Full text Show abstract

Occupational science is an emerging basic science which supports the practice of occupational therapy. Its roots in the rich traditions of occupational therapy are explored and its current configuration is introduced. Specifications which the science needs to meet as it is further developed and refined are presented. Compatible disciplines and research approaches are identified. Examples of basic science research questions and their potential contributions to occupational therapy practice are suggested.

ACOTE accreditation | NBCOT certification

The USC entry-level master's degree program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education® (ACOTE). ACOTE c/o Accreditation Department, American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc.®, 6116 Executive Boulevard, Suite 200, North Bethesda, MD 20852-4929, (301) 652-6611 x2914, acoteonline.org

Professional program graduates are eligible to apply for certification by National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc.® (NBCOT), nbcot.org. Program results from the NBCOT can be found online at https://secure.nbcot.org/data/schoolstats.aspx.