The post-professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program is a clinical doctorate program intended for occupational therapists who have already completed an entry level, accredited occupational therapy program at the Master or Baccalaureate degree level. The post-professional OTD program is designed with a set of core courses for all students to take, as well as a designated specialty track allowing students to focus their doctoral work in a specific area of interest or practice.

Applicants who have completed an accredited occupational therapy program at the Master’s degree must have a minimum of one year of full time clinical experience as a licensed occupational therapist. The focus of the bachelor’s to post-professional OTD Track is to help licensed occupational therapists with a bachelor’s degree to acquire the knowledge and skills needed to remain competitive in the occupational therapy profession at the doctoral level.

This flexible program is offered completely online with no residency requirement. Students will attend an online orientation with their cohort at the beginning of their coursework. A synchronous online presentation is required at the end of the program to present/defend their capstone project.

Program Requirements

For students who completed an entry level, accredited occupational therapy program at the Master’s degree level, the post-professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate requires the completion of 36 credits to meet degree requirements. For students who completed an entry level, accredited occupational therapy program at the Bachelor’s degree level, the post-professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate requires completion of 54 credits to meet degree requirements.

All students choose from one of the following concentrations:

Student Learning Outcomes

Graduates who complete any concentration within the Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate are expected to be able to:

• Demonstrate advanced knowledge and proficiency in occupational therapy, with a focus on specialized areas of practice, incorporating the latest evidence-based approaches into their professional practice.
• Effectively communicate with clients, colleagues, and interdisciplinary teams, utilizing advanced communication skills to  convey complex concepts.
• Exhibit leadership qualities, including the ability to lead teams, advocate for the profession, and contribute to the advancement of occupational therapy practice, demonstrating a commitment to continuous leadership development.
• Apply theoretical frameworks and evidence-based practice to real-world occupational therapy scenarios, integrating academic knowledge into professional practice.
• Possess the skills needed to conduct research, including the ability to critically appraise literature, design and conduct research projects relevant to occupational therapy, and contribute to the evolving body of knowledge in the field.
• Engage in critical analysis of occupational therapy practices and propose innovative approaches to address practice problems in occupational therapy settings.
• Demonstrate advanced ethical reasoning skills in occupational therapy practice and research, making informed ethical decisions, advocating for client welfare, and upholding the highest standards of professional integrity.
• Promote a culture that respects and values the unique perspectives, experiences, and needs of all individuals.